Membership Benefits

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With more trade, changing trade patterns, new technology, and increased security, there has never been a more important time for those engaged in the cold chain to come together, exchange ideas, and advocate on behalf of the companies that play such a crucial role in moving perishable products from the point at which they are produced to the point at which they are sold.

As an IRTA member, at an annual dues rate of $500, your company will be entitled to:

Networking & Education Opportunities

Convention & Global Cold Chain Expo
This annual association event features timely educational programs and industry exhibits focused specifically on products and professional services of interest to cold chain professionals.  With an average registration of about 600, including members of the International Association of Refrigerated Warehouses (IARW), this is the place to meet with industry decision makers.

Assembly of Committees
IRTA members may participate, at no charge, in the IRTA Transportation Committee and other meetings at the annual Assembly of Committees along with members of IARW, the World Food Logistics Organization (WFLO) and the International Association for Cold Storage Construction (IACSC). In total, ten committees meet to discuss current issues in transportation, warehouse operations, administration, construction trends, research and more.

WFLO Institute
IRTA member companies are entitled to register one employee at the WFLO member rate to participate in the WFLO Institute -- the only comprehensive cold chain training program in the world. Divided into seven tracks—Facilities Management, Finance and Productivity, Food Science/Food Safety, Human Resources, Logistics Management, Risk Management, and Warehouse Technology—the Institute curriculum provides a sound industry overview.

Marketing

Global Cold Chain Directory
As an IRTA member, your company will have a listing in the annual directory of IRTA, IARW, WFLO and IACSC.  This joint publication is the sourcebook for thousands of customers searching for cold chain solutions. More information.

Advertising and Sponsorships
IRTA members have the opportunity to advertise in the Global Cold Chain Directory and receive daily exposure for an entire year to a readership tailored to their companies’ services. Additional advertising opportunities are available throughout the year in the quarterly IRTA newsletter, IRTA Report, and IRTA's monthy e-newsletter, Cool Moves.  Sponsorship opportunities are available at many association events.

IRTA Logo
All members may use the association’s logo on their website(s), stationery, advertising or other printed material as a visible “seal of quality.”

Member Communications

Cool Moves eNewsletter
Once a month, all members receive the Cool Moves e-newsletter, which contains brief updates on industry news, government and legal matters, association business and events, and more!

COLD FACTS Magazine
COLD FACTS - The bimonthly Cold Facts magazine is a direct link to 3,500 of the top decision-makers in the international cold chain, which include members of the International Association of Refrigerated Warehouses, the World Food Logistics Organization, the International Refrigerated Transportation Association, and the International Association for Cold Storage Construction. Cold Facts reports on all association programs and activities, the latest cold chain trends and advancements, and provides in-depth market intelligence studies.

Government Affairs

Monitoring
The IRTA staff and the IRTA Transportation Committee monitor both Congressional and regulatory activity, as well as selected state and local jurisdictions. Through contacts on Capitol Hill and at federal agencies, IRTA keeps members abreast of food safety issues, tax matters, security requirements, and other topics which impact the refrigerated transportation industry.

Advocacy
IRTA works to convey your message to government decision makers, and gives you a voice in Washington. IRTA staff is on call to respond to questions, working to ensure that the refrigerated transportation industry is not subjected to onerous and unreasonable requirements.

Technical Resources

Scientific Advisory Council (SAC)
IRTA members have access to the distinguished food scientists serving on the WFLO Scientific Advisory Council. SAC members are called upon to advise members about the proper storage and handling of refrigerated and frozen products.  In 2005, IRTA added a specialist in perishables transportation to this prestigious panel.

International Outreach

Cold Chain Development
Through a growing number of government-funded projects, and in partnership with WFLO, IRTA actively contributes to increasing awareness of cold chain issues.  With assessments, training, design and feasibility studies, the organizations work to ensure the growth of a strong industry.  A strong industry means higher quality and volume of product, and a greater number of business opportunities.

Consultancy Opportunities
With a growing number of development projects to implement, WFLO and IRTA regularly seek short-term technical assistance from member companies.  Participating members gain invaluable insight into the state of the cold chain in developing countries, as well as the opportunity to make industry contacts in nations with growing economies.