Shipping Fresh Produce from Cartagena to Memphis via Ocean Freight

Transporting fresh produce successfully Requires a continuous cold chain. Use Insulated packaging with the right amount of gel packs for refrigerated food or dry ice for Frozen food, 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 goods can often be shipped with dry ice by air, but dry ice is regulated as a dangerous good. Airlines Set 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. We recommend 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 restrict coverage for temperature-related loss on fresh food and Frozen goods. We 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 beverages should stay between 0–4°C, while many Frozen food products must remain at −18°C or colder. Exact ranges depend on the product type and local regulations. Always Confirm requirements for each item and specify the target range on booking instructions and labels so your Reefer cargo is set correctly.

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

Fresh and frozen food must be kept at specific temperature ranges throughout the ocean freight process to prevent spoilage. This includes using refrigerated containers (reefers) that maintain the required temperatures, monitoring temperature logs during transit, and ensuring proper ventilation for perishable items.

Shipments of fresh and frozen food from Colombia to the United States must comply with USDA and FDA regulations, including proper labeling, documentation of origin, and inspection certificates. Importers must ensure that food products meet U.S. safety standards and may require additional permits for certain items.

Shipping durations depend on lane, mode, and carrier, but SAMMIE provides up-to-date, predictive ETAs that factor in real-world conditions like port congestion and weather delays.

Yes, our experts prepare AES filings, commercial invoices, packing lists, and export declarations to ensure accuracy and compliance for outbound shipments.

Yes, DNA enables EDI and API-based billing feeds that automatically sync with your ERP or accounting platform for seamless updates and faster financial close cycles.