New Production and Safety Standards
In Türkiye, a comprehensive transformation is on the agenda in the areas of safety, superstructure durability and compliance with international transport standards for refrigerated semi-trailers as well as ADR-certified tanker and silo trailers. In tanker semi-trailers used for the transport of dangerous goods and in refrigerated superstructures that ensure cold chain logistics, compliance with ADR (European Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) is accepted as a fundamental requirement.
ADR legislation covers a broad set of mandatory requirements extending beyond tanks, chassis and coupling equipment to include packaging, marking, labeling, valves and safety devices appropriate to the hazard class of the transported substance.
Refrigerated Semi-Trailers and Cold Chain Transportation
Refrigerated trailers are equipped with insulated superstructures and refrigeration units that enable the transport of food, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and sensitive cargoes at specified temperatures. Insulation thickness, door seals, refrigeration systems and thermal retention performance are among the critical parameters for quality and continuity in cold chain transport.
Companies engaged in cold chain transportation regularly carry out maintenance processes such as temperature monitoring, hygiene and disinfection procedures, and equipment inspections.
ADR-Compliant Design and Technical Strength in Tankers
Tanker semi-trailers used in the transport of dangerous goods feature welded tank body structures manufactured from high-strength steel or aluminum alloys. In tankers carrying pressurized substances, leak-tightness, pressure control, valve safety, emergency shut-off valves and regular inspection processes are of vital importance.
Within the ADR framework, manufacturers are required to obtain “Design Type Approval,” “Manufacturing Site Certificate of Conformity,” and, following periodic inspections, an “ADR Vehicle Certificate of Conformity (T9).” These documents demonstrate that all components, including the tank, chassis, braking and electrical infrastructure, meet ADR requirements.
International Compliance and Operational Safety
ADR-compliant tankers and semi-trailers can be used on European and international transport routes in the chemical, petroleum, pharmaceutical, dangerous goods transport and cold chain sectors. This compliance increases the export potential of vehicles manufactured in Türkiye while also providing a critical safety framework in terms of human health, environmental protection and operational risk management.
Sectoral Situation and Expectations
In Türkiye, awareness of compliance with international norms in the production of refrigerated and ADR-compliant tanker trailers has increased. However, up-to-date quantitative data on total vehicle numbers, sector-wide penetration rates and the scope of certification remain limited.
For companies engaged in cold chain and dangerous goods transportation, transitioning to ADR-compliant vehicles holds strategic importance in terms of legal compliance, safety and competitiveness.
