Shipping Fresh Food from Charlotte to San Jose via Ocean Freight

Transporting perishable goods successfully Requires a continuous cold chain. Use cooler boxes with the right amount of gel packs for Chilled 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 Reefer cargo.

Yes, frozen goods can in many cases 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. 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 restrict coverage for temperature-related loss on chilled food and Frozen goods. 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 adequate insulation was used before honoring claims.

Most chilled beverages 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 Confirm 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 chilled food and frozen goods 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 food must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, We recommend separating them into different Reefer cargo shipments to avoid freezing perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.

Fresh and frozen food must be maintained at specific temperature ranges throughout the shipping process to ensure quality and safety. This includes using refrigerated containers for chilled items and frozen containers for frozen food, with regular monitoring of temperature levels during transit. Additionally, proper packing techniques should be employed to minimize temperature fluctuations.

Shipping fresh and frozen food requires compliance with both U.S. and Costa Rican regulations, including obtaining necessary permits and certifications. Import permits from Costa Rica's Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAG) may be required, along with adherence to health and safety standards. Proper documentation, such as health certificates and invoices, must accompany shipments for customs clearance.

Yes, our team is equipped for urgent, oversized, or specialized shipments, including temperature-sensitive cargo, high-value electronics, and complex FF&E rollouts across all modes.

Yes, our team handles it. We manage documentation, declarations, and clearance protocols for electronics, apparel, machinery, and regulated goods such as food or medical devices.

DNA’s invoicing process is powered by SAMMIE, which matches shipment events with billing data so you receive clear, line-itemized invoices tied directly to shipment milestones and documents.