Shipping Perishable Goods from Bogota to Honolulu via Ocean Freight

Shipping fresh produce successfully demands a continuous cold chain. Use thermal containers with the right amount of gel packs for refrigerated food or dry ice for frozen goods, pre‑chill products before packing, and choose a time‑definite service. Clearly mark boxes as “Perishable” and specify the required temperature so carriers handle them as temperature-controlled freight.

Yes, Frozen food can often be shipped with dry ice by air, but dry ice is regulated as a dangerous good. Airlines have limits on how much dry ice is allowed per package and per shipment, and labels must show the net weight of dry ice and UN1845 markings. Our compliance team recommends checking carrier and destination rules in advance and combining dry ice with insulated packaging to keep reefer cargo at temperature while staying within dry‑ice limits.

Standard cargo policies may Exclude coverage for temperature-related loss on fresh food and frozen food. Insurance specialists generally recommend arranging a policy that specifically covers temperature deviation and spoilage, and declaring the full value of your refrigerated food shipment. Keep packing records and temperature logs; insurers often require proof that adequate insulation was used before honoring claims.

Most Chilled food should stay between 0–4°C, while many frozen goods products must remain at −18°C or colder. Exact ranges depend on the product type and local regulations. Always verify requirements for each item and specify the target range on booking instructions and labels so your temperature-controlled shipment is set correctly.

You can sometimes mix Fresh produce and frozen goods in the same load, but only if your container or vehicle can maintain separate temperature zones. Chilled food typically needs temperatures above freezing, while frozen food must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, best practice is separating them into different temperature-controlled shipments to avoid freezing perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.

It is crucial to maintain proper temperature control throughout the shipping process to ensure the quality of fresh and frozen food. This includes using refrigerated containers for chilled products and ensuring that frozen items remain at or below -18°C. Additionally, proper packaging must be utilized to minimize the risk of spoilage or damage during transit.

Regulatory requirements include compliance with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, which mandate prior notice of food shipments. Additionally, all shipments must adhere to USDA guidelines for agricultural products, including inspections and certifications for fresh produce. Importers must also ensure that all documentation, such as bills of lading and customs declarations, is accurately prepared and submitted for clearance.

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