End-to-end logistics solutions with real-time tracking
South Korea
United States
The ocean route from Incheon to Chicago offers significant advantages for transporting fresh produce and frozen food. This pathway ensures temperature-controlled conditions throughout the journey, preserving the quality and safety of chilled and frozen items. Additionally, the capacity of ocean freight allows for larger shipments, making it a cost-effective solution for bulk deliveries of refrigerated goods. Efficient handling processes at both ports further enhance the reliability of this route for perishable products.
Incheon International Airport is equipped with advanced logistics facilities, including specialized cold storage and temperature-controlled containers that cater to the needs of fresh and frozen food shipments. The port of Chicago, a major hub in the U.S., features extensive infrastructure for handling perishable items, including refrigerated warehouses and efficient distribution networks. Together, these locations provide a seamless transition from sea to land transportation, ensuring that chilled and frozen products reach their destination in optimal condition.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Exporters must comply with South Korean strategic goods control regulations, notably for high-tech and dual-use items.
All inbound cargo routed through Chicago must adhere to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations, including timely entry filings and security screenings.
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
Very High - Requires Specialized Care
When shipping from Incheon to Chicago via ocean, expect delays due to typhoon season (June-November). Build in flexible delivery windows to accommodate weather disruptions. Secure vessel space 3-4 weeks before key periods like Christmas retail peak (October-December). During back to school demand (late July-September), prioritize with carriers to avoid rollovers. Lastly, adjust schedules for seasonal fog (May-September) to ensure timely deliveries.
When shipping fresh produce, correct packing is critical to control temperature and moisture. Our team suggests using Insulated cartons with phase-change packs for chilled beverage...
Keeping the cold chain for chilled food demands tightly controlled handling. Reduce door-open time during loading and unloading so Reefer cargo does not warm or condense. Industry ...
For larger volumes of fresh food, selecting the correct container type is critical. Our logistics team recommends Integrated reefer containers for mixed loads of chilled beverages ...
Exporting fresh food often demands additional documentation beyond a standard commercial invoice. Depending on destination, you may need sanitary certificates, temperature-control ...
Before pickup, stage fresh produce at the correct temperature: typically 0–4°C for chilled food and −18°C or below for frozen goods. Avoid storing Fresh produce directly on the flo...
Moving fresh produce successfully demands a continuous cold chain. Use thermal containers with the right amount of gel packs for Chilled 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 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. Our compliance team recommends 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 fresh food and frozen food. Insurance specialists generally 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 correct handling 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 temperature-controlled shipment 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. Chilled food typically needs temperatures above freezing, while frozen food must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, We recommend separating them into different temperature-controlled shipments to avoid freezing perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.
Fresh and frozen food requires temperature-controlled containers to maintain appropriate conditions during transit. It is essential to monitor and ensure that refrigerated shipments remain at or below 4°C (39°F) and frozen shipments at or below -18°C (0°F) throughout the journey. Proper insulation and regular temperature checks are crucial to prevent spoilage.
Shipments of fresh and frozen food must comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including prior notice requirements for food imports. Additionally, all products must meet the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) standards to prevent the introduction of pests and diseases. Importers must also ensure that all necessary documentation, such as health certificates and customs declarations, are completed accurately.
With our air solutions, you receive live alerts and 24/7 tracking for full shipment visibility.
Yes, DNA handles import and export clearance to keep your shipments moving and compliant.
Yes, DNA offers cross-docking and transloading capabilities.
Call or schedule a call with our sales team to discuss your Incheon → Chicago shipping needs.
Talk to a logistics expert
Our team specializes in the Incheon to Chicago trade lane.
1-786-949-7330Join hundreds of companies who trust DNA Supply Chain for their logistics needs. Transparent pricing, real-time tracking, and dedicated support.