Safe handling of your critical Frozen Goods cargo
Panama
United States
The route from Colon to Charleston is strategically advantageous for transporting fresh produce and chilled food, ensuring optimal conditions for maintaining product quality. Utilizing ocean freight allows for larger shipments, reducing overall transportation costs while providing the necessary time for proper refrigeration and freezing. This route is well-suited for the movement of perishable goods, minimizing spoilage and waste throughout the journey. Additionally, the efficient logistics network supports timely delivery to meet consumer demand.
Both Colon and Charleston boast robust infrastructure to facilitate the handling of refrigerated and frozen products. Colon's port is equipped with advanced cold storage facilities and efficient loading systems, ensuring that fresh food is quickly processed upon arrival. In Charleston, state-of-the-art distribution centers and transportation links are in place, allowing for seamless transfer to the domestic market. This combination of facilities ensures that perishable goods are kept at optimal temperatures throughout the supply chain.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Exporters must comply with Panama Canal Authority and national customs regulations for all outbound cargo.
All inbound cargo must comply with U.S. Customs and Border Protection regulations and security filing requirements (including ISF 10+2)
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
Very High - Requires Specialized Care
When shipping from Colon, Panama to Charleston, United States, build in additional buffer days during the Atlantic Hurricane Season (June-November) to accommodate potential weather disruptions. Secure flexible berthing windows and alternative ports of refuge, especially during peak storm months (August-October). Anticipate extended transit times and increased congestion during the holiday retail peaks (November-December), so prioritize earlier sailings and communicate closely with carriers to manage capacity. Monitor weather forecasts and adjust plans accordingly to mitigate risks associated with winter storms (December-March).
When shipping fresh produce, Proper packaging Is essential to control temperature and moisture. We recommend using cooler boxes with Gel packs for refrigerated food and dry ice for...
Keeping the cold chain for Refrigerated food Requires tightly controlled handling. Minimize door-open time during loading and unloading so perishable goods does not warm or condens...
For larger volumes of fresh food, Using the correct container type is Essential. We recommend powered reefer units for mixed loads of Refrigerated food and Frozen goods that must t...
Exporting Perishable goods often Requires additional documentation beyond a standard commercial invoice. Depending on destination, you may need Health certificates, temperature-con...
Before pickup, stage Fresh food at the correct temperature: typically 0–4°C for Refrigerated food and −18°C or below for Frozen food. Avoid storing fresh food directly on the floor...
Moving Fresh food successfully Requires 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 expedited service. Clearly mark boxes as “Perishable” and specify the required temperature so carriers handle them as temperature-controlled freight.
Yes, Frozen food can Usually 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 limit coverage for temperature-related loss on Perishable goods 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 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 fresh 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 Reefer cargo shipments to avoid freezing Fresh produce or partially thawing frozen items.
Proper temperature control is crucial for maintaining the quality of fresh and frozen food during transit. It is essential to use refrigerated containers to ensure that fresh produce and chilled food remain at appropriate temperatures, while frozen food must be kept at or below -18°C (0°F) to prevent thawing. Regular monitoring of temperature during the ocean freight journey is also recommended.
Shipments of fresh and frozen food from Colon to Charleston must comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including prior notice of arrival. Additionally, importers must ensure that all products meet U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) standards and are accompanied by necessary health certificates and documentation to verify the origin and safety of the food products.
DNA offers scalable capacity for seasonal spikes as part of our ground transportation solutions.
DNA offers warehousing and distribution with inventory management and reporting, B2B pick/pack and palletization, cross-docking, transloading, and partnered facilities in key logistics hubs.
Yes, DNA offers global shipment support for hardware, electronics, and high-value IT assets with secure handling.
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