Shipping Reefer Cargo from Charleston to Puerto Caldera via Ocean Freight

Moving fresh produce successfully necessitates a continuous cold chain. Use cooler boxes with the right amount of gel packs for Chilled 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 Reefer cargo.

Yes, Frozen food can often be shipped with dry ice by air, but dry ice is regulated as a dangerous good. Airlines impose 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. Most experts recommend checking carrier and destination rules in advance and combining dry ice with insulated packaging to keep Frozen food at temperature while staying within dry‑ice limits.

Standard cargo policies may limit coverage for temperature-related loss on fresh food and frozen food. Most shippers should arranging a policy that specifically covers temperature deviation and spoilage, and declaring the full value of your Reefer cargo. Keep packing records and temperature logs; insurers often require proof that correct handling was used before honoring claims.

Most refrigerated 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 check 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 food 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, We recommend separating them into different temperature-controlled shipments to avoid freezing perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.

Fresh and frozen food must be transported in temperature-controlled containers to maintain the required temperature throughout the journey. It is essential to monitor and manage the refrigeration units to prevent spoilage. Additionally, proper packaging should be utilized to minimize the risk of damage and contamination during transit.

Shipments of fresh and frozen food must comply with both U.S. and Costa Rican food safety regulations, including obtaining necessary permits and health certifications. Import documentation such as phytosanitary certificates for fresh produce and health certificates for frozen food is required to ensure compliance with Costa Rican customs regulations.

Customers have shared that they want to use SAMMIE for every ocean freight shipment they move because having all shipment data in one dashboard is invaluable and time-saving.

DNA’s One Test Run Challenge is an invitation to give DNA Supply Chain Solutions one test shipment so we can prove what visibility, reliability, and real partnership feel like with just a single shipment.

“DNA” comes from a conversation between our founder and his daughter, Ameerah, who suggested merging their names—David ‘N’ Ameerah—to create DNA, reflecting strong bonds, shared values, and trust.