I) All outbound trailers must be inspected for condition, odors, and sanitary condition. Inspection of carriers must be documented.
II) Refrigerated and frozen product must be loaded into pre-cooler trailers. No product is to be loaded into unacceptable trailers. Outbound carriers must be properly cleaned prior to loading.
III)Trailers and railcars must not be cleaned at the dock, as this creates a potential for rodent and pest infestation.
IV) Items stored in all warehouse/storage areas must be a minimum of 6 inches of height off the floor and stored 16-18 inches from walls (measurements are approximate).
V) Storage facilities must be clean, dry, and at appropriate temperature.
VI) Center loading of trailers is the preferred procedure rather than wall loading.
VII) Materials must be stored, as appropriate, in covered or closed containers that are properly labeled.
VIII) Product must be stacked in trailers so as not to block blowers or vents, and to allow the circulation on air.
IX) Floors and walls must be clean and free of grease or spills.
X) Floors under pallets and racks and in aisles and walkways must be free of debris and dirt.
XI) Shipping docks and areas around and under docks must be clean and free of food, garbage, clutter, water, and temperature controlled if appropriate so as not to contaminate product.
XII) Pallets, racks, and shelving must be clean and in good repair.
XIII) All stock must be rotated on a first-in/first-out basis (FIFO) or first expired first out basis (FEFO).
XIV) Finished product, packaging material, equipment, and ingredients must not be stored in close proximity to any chemical, cleaning compounds, pesticides, or odorous materials. Such non-food materials must be stored in separate areas that can be closed and secured, away from any food materials or ingredients.