Shipping Fresh Food from Cleveland to Montreal via Ocean Freight

Moving fresh produce successfully demands 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 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 often be shipped with dry ice by air, but dry ice is regulated as a dangerous good. Airlines have 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 limit 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 Proper packaging 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 verify 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 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 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 Fresh produce or partially thawing frozen items.

Fresh and frozen food must be maintained at specific temperature ranges during ocean freight to ensure product integrity. Refrigerated containers are required for fresh produce and chilled food, while frozen food must be transported in containers capable of maintaining sub-zero temperatures. Proper loading and unloading procedures must be followed to minimize temperature fluctuations.

Shipments of fresh and frozen food must comply with both U.S. and Canadian regulations, including the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) requirements. Import permits may be required for certain food products, and all shipments must be accompanied by appropriate documentation, including customs declarations and health certifications to ensure compliance with safety standards.

To view the platform, you can watching client stories and a platform overview video or requesting a personalized demo.

DNA Supply Chain provides constant visibility by combining smart technology, data mastery, and our AI-enhanced SAMMIE platform so clients stay informed, confident, and in control.

DNA believes logistics isn’t just about moving freight; it’s about earning trust, serving people—not just packages—and building long-term relationships that drive results.