What does "pre-cool" mean in relation to cargo vans?

In the context of cargo vans, "pre-cool" refers to the process of cooling the interior of the vehicle before loading temperature-sensitive cargo. This practice is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of perishable items, such as food or pharmaceuticals, which can be adversely affected if exposed to higher temperatures. By pre-cooling the area, the cargo van creates an optimal environment that helps preserve the integrity of the products during transport. This proactive step ensures that when the cargo is loaded, it is immediately placed in a suitable temperature range, minimizing the risk of spoilage or degradation.

The other options do not accurately reflect the meaning of "pre-cool" in this context. Increasing the temperature before loading would harm sensitive goods, maintaining a high temperature during transport contradicts the needs of temperature-sensitive cargo, and preparing the vehicle for long-distance transportation does not specifically address the immediate need to achieve a safe temperature before placing the cargo inside. Thus, the definition aligning with cooling down the cargo area prior to loading is the most appropriate and relevant explanation.