The STF rule is one of several major regulations stemming from the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA). Carriers with more than $27.5 million in annual revenue were required to comply as of April 6, and all other carriers with more than $500,000 in revenue must comply by April 6, 2018.
Under the companies’ agreement, TransComply and Iron Apple will consult on the development of complementary services to carriers and brokers that transport perishable food regulated by FSMA. In addition, the UFSTP program will inform program applicants and prospects regarding Iron Apple’s solutions to help carriers comply with requirements of the FDA rule related to training; recordkeeping; equipment and operational management; trailer cleanliness; and temperature control. Iron Apple also offers a third-party verification and audit solution for carriers.
Likewise, Iron Apple will inform and promote the benefits of participating in the UFSTP program, a privately managed registry of carriers that have committed contractually to comply with applicable requirements of the FDA rule. The UFSTP program’s primary goal is to ensure that compliant carriers of all sizes are recognized by shippers and brokers for embracing best practices in the safe handling of perishable food.
The Iron Apple certified food safety solution is aimed at motor carriers and brokers responsible for transporting food throughout North America. It provides all procedures, policies, forms, employee training, workflow and documents needed for the company to meet regulatory requirements. A yearly review by a third-party auditing partner is completed to ensure all areas of the solution are being followed properly throughout the company. Carriers and brokers receive all materials needed to comply.
Launched in December 2016, the UFSTP program is being used by brokers and shippers to vet carriers for perishable food loads in the spot market. Participating carriers execute the UFSTP agreement, which can be incorporated into contracts and load confirmations by reference. TransComply also continually monitors cargo and bodily injury/property damage insurance coverage and the status of Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration authority. Currently, more than 350 carriers have completed all UFSTP requirements and are listed as verified carriers at www.ufstp.com/verify.
For more information, go to www.transcomply.com, www.ironapple.net or www.fsmaexpress.com.
