Shipping Chilled Food from Charlotte to Suape 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 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 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 correct handling 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 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. This includes ensuring proper refrigeration for chilled products and freezing for frozen items. Additionally, adequate insulation and monitoring systems should be utilized to prevent temperature fluctuations during transit.

Regulatory requirements include compliance with both U.S. and Brazilian food safety standards, which may involve obtaining import permits from Brazil's Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (MAPA). Additionally, documentation such as health certificates, phytosanitary certificates for plant-based products, and compliance with customs regulations must be provided to ensure a smooth import process.

Our customs brokerage includes tariff classification and valuation as part of our in-house expertise.

Our network includes partnered facilities in key logistics hubs, including locations near important ports for strategic storage and fulfillment.

We encourage you to take the DNA “One Test Run Challenge” with a single shipment so we can demonstrate our visibility, reliability, and partnership-focused approach.