The storage requirements of potatoes vary depending on what the assigned purpose the the batch of potatoes is for. For example, raw potatoes that are for french fries, they should be stored in a temperature that is between 45 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit; such potatoes can be stored for 1 to 10 months and needing 90 to 95 percent humidity. Contrasting, potatoes for frozen french fries should be kept at 0 degrees Fahrenheit; with small cuts being able to last 12 months and large cuts lasting from 18 to 24 months; both of which need vapor proof packaging.
Fresh packed potatoes are transported in refrigerated railcars and trucking systems. Railcars are used for long hauls ie over 2,000 miles and preferred for large single commodity loads. On average, railcars ship 12,000 carloads yearly, that is an estimated 1.4 billion pounds of fresh potatoes.
