Frequently Asked Questions
Here you will find the answers to frequently asked questions about BD Cold Storage. There is a separate FAQ page for driver information.
How do I get a list of services you provide and pricing or inquire about contracts?
Request a QuoteClick the “Request a Quote” button on our website, fill out any pertinent information and add any questions you have, then submit, we will contact you to talk about your needs, how we can meet them, and the pricing associated with the solution.
Is BDCS inspected, certified, and licensed to store food products?
Yes. We are inspected and licensed by the Wisconsin Dept of Agriculture with both Public and Food Warehouse licenses. We are also inspected and registered by USDA, FDA, and third party audited by our customers and the companies they supply, we also maintain SQF certification. Our Food Defense system, training procedures and Quality Management System are geared to food storage procedures and standards.
What is SQF?
The Safe Quality Food (SQF) Program is a globally recognized food safety and quality certification system designed to ensure that food products are handled, stored, transported, and distributed safely throughout the supply chain. It is recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI), making it one of the most widely accepted food safety certification programs in the world.
Is my product safe in your warehouses?
BDCS employs a robust Food Defense program which includes limited access to facilities, CCTV networked cameras throughout the facilities, no one is allowed on the floor that isn’t a fully trained BDCS employee or escorted by a trained BDCS employee and frequent guard and management patrols of the grounds among other methods. This plan is reviewed and tested by USDA, SQF, and management regularly.
What type of insurance coverages does BDCS carry?
We carry all the coverages as should be carried by any reputable food warehousing company at appropriate limits including Commercial General Liability, Workers Comp, and Warehouseman’s Legal Liability Insurance.
How do you track inventory in your warehouses? Do you use EDI?
Inventory is managed through our Warehouse Management System (WMS), DATEX, which is integrated with handheld scanners throughout our warehouses. This allows for accurate labeling, barcoding, and real-time inventory tracking. Every inventory movement is time-stamped and user-stamped, providing complete traceability at each step of the process. Our network-integrated system helps ensure efficient, accurate data processing error free. We also offer seamless EDI integration and support all standard EDI transaction documents.
If a carrier is running late what should they do?
Call or email 4 hours ahead of the scheduled appointment time if possible. We will still load or unload carriers asap when late.
Do you allow overnight truck parking?
No, for product and everyone’s safety we do not allow overnight parking on the facility grounds. However, overnight parking can be done on the street just outside the fence we are open 24 hrs Monday-Friday and offer restroom facilities for carriers. Also, if a carrier comes in early they may park inside our fence while waiting to be serviced.
Can you sell or become owner of any of our products?
No, we maintain a Bailee relationship which means while your goods are in our custody, you maintain ownership and control of those goods, and you must maintain insurance on the goods. We are not allowed to sell or pledge your goods. We agree as custodian, not owner of your goods, to handle them with the care you’d expect a reputable warehouse to handle them.
Do you employ professional pest control services?
BDCS facilities are covered with an Integrated Pest Management system from Terminator Pest Control.
Are you FSMA ready?
We are FSMA compliant. All the prerequisite programs and foundational rules are in place.
Do you have a HACCP Plan in place?
Our HACCP Plan in place it is reviewed annually and changes are made when they are warranted.
Do you have back-up systems in case of emergency like power outages?
We have an onsite generator at both locations capable of powering the facility allowing us to keep your product safe even in the event of a pro-longed power outage.
What type of refrigerants and type of material handling equipment do you use?
We use electric forklifts and non-ammonia refrigerants so there is no chance of contamination of your product from ammonia fumes or engine exhaust.
How do you load and unload carriers? Is it first come first serve or do carriers need appointments?
We require carriers to make appointments via Open Dock at least 24 hours in advance. In a pinch we will assist via email or over the phone but we prefer appointments via Open Dock. Work-load permitting we will always load or unload trailers early.
What is your physical location for GPS purposes?
We have 2 locations.
Beaver Dam Cold Storage NORTH- 121 Tower Drive, Beaver Dam, WI 53916.
Beaver Dam Cold Storage SOUTH- N6366 Jackson Road, Beaver Dam WI 53916.
Our “Contact Us Page” contains a map.
Can my carriers utilize BDCS’ lot for drop trailers?
Absolutely. We support drop trailer programs to help streamline your supply chain and improve transportation efficiency. Our team will work with your carrier to coordinate drop and hook operations whenever possible.