Shipping Reefer Cargo from Laem Chabang to Tacoma via Ocean Freight

Shipping perishable goods successfully necessitates a continuous cold chain. Use thermal containers with the right amount of gel packs for refrigerated food or dry ice for frozen goods, 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 Reefer cargo.

Yes, Frozen food can in many cases be shipped with dry ice by air, but dry ice is regulated as a dangerous good. Airlines impose 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 reefer cargo at temperature while staying within dry‑ice limits.

Standard cargo policies may Exclude coverage for temperature-related loss on chilled 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 refrigerated food shipment. Keep packing records and temperature logs; insurers often require proof that correct handling was used before honoring claims.

Most Chilled 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 check 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 produce and frozen goods 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 goods must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, best practice is separating them into different temperature-controlled shipments to avoid freezing Fresh produce or partially thawing frozen items.

When shipping fresh and frozen food, it is crucial to maintain the appropriate temperature throughout the journey to prevent spoilage. This includes using refrigerated containers (reefers) that can regulate temperatures for chilled and frozen products. Proper loading techniques must be employed to ensure adequate airflow and avoid temperature fluctuations.

Shipments of fresh and frozen food must comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including prior notice of shipment and adherence to safety standards. Additionally, the products must meet the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) requirements for importation, which may include inspections and certifications to ensure they are free from pests and diseases.

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Our founder believes the best work happens quietly when everything runs smoothly and no one’s watching, and he applies that mindset to logistics and to life.

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