Shipping Reefer Cargo from Chennai to Norfolk via Ocean Freight

Moving perishable goods successfully Requires a continuous cold chain. Use cooler boxes with the right amount of gel packs for refrigerated food or dry ice for frozen goods, pre‑chill products before packing, and choose a Fast transit service. Clearly mark boxes as “Perishable” and specify the required temperature so carriers handle them as temperature-controlled freight.

Yes, Frozen food 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 reefer cargo at temperature while staying within dry‑ice limits.

Standard cargo policies may limit 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 refrigerated food shipment. 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 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 fresh 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, most logistics providers recommend separating them into different temperature-controlled shipments to avoid freezing Fresh produce or partially thawing frozen items.

Fresh and frozen food must be stored in temperature-controlled containers to maintain their quality during transit. It is crucial to ensure that refrigerated containers are set to the appropriate temperatures for chilled food, while frozen food must remain at or below -18°C. Adequate insulation and monitoring systems should be in place to prevent temperature fluctuations.

Importing fresh and frozen food into the United States requires adherence to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including prior notice of importation. Additionally, products must comply with USDA standards, and appropriate phytosanitary certificates should be obtained for fresh produce. All documentation must be accurate and complete to ensure smooth customs clearance at Norfolk.

DNA offers ground transportation including full truckload (FTL), less-than-truckload (LTL), and drayage services, with U.S. and Mexico cross-border coverage, scalable capacity, GPS tracking, and digital documentation.

Yes, DNA offers tariff classification and valuation as part of our in-house expertise.

DNA utilizes partnered facilities in key logistics hubs, including locations near important ports for strategic storage and fulfillment.