Shipping Frozen Food from Dalian to Tacoma via Ocean Freight

Moving Fresh food successfully demands a continuous cold chain. Use Insulated packaging 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 food can Usually 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 Frozen food 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 Reefer cargo. 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 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 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, most logistics providers recommend separating them into different Reefer cargo shipments to avoid freezing perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.

Fresh & Frozen Food requires temperature-controlled containers to maintain appropriate conditions during transit. It is essential to monitor and document temperatures throughout the journey to ensure compliance with safety standards. Additionally, proper loading techniques must be employed to prevent damage to perishable goods.

Shipments of Fresh & Frozen Food must comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including prior notice requirements. Importers must also provide necessary documentation such as health certificates, and ensure that products meet U.S. standards for safety and quality.

DNA’s ocean freight solutions uses deep carrier relationships and the SAMMIE platform to move FCL and LCL containers smarter, with fewer surprises, clearer ETAs, and proactive risk flagging before issues develop.

DNA Supply Chain brings 30+ years of experience with global reach and local touch, using deep carrier relationships to move freight worldwide with precision and white-glove attention at every step.

No, DNA uses in-house customs brokerage with automation to reduce errors and accelerate clearance, rather than outsourcing to third-party brokers with outdated, manual documentation processes.