Shipping Frozen Goods from Le Havre to Columbus via Ocean Freight

Shipping perishable goods successfully necessitates a continuous cold chain. Use Insulated packaging with the right amount of gel packs for refrigerated food or dry ice for frozen goods, 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 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. 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 Exclude coverage for temperature-related loss on chilled food and frozen food. 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 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.

Fresh and frozen food requires temperature-controlled containers to maintain appropriate conditions throughout the journey. It is essential to monitor temperature and humidity levels during transit to ensure product integrity.

Shipments of fresh and frozen food must comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, including prior notice requirements. Additionally, products may need to meet specific import permits and health certifications depending on the type of food being transported.

We say this because the company is personal—named after our founder and his daughter—and reflects the trust, respect, and commitment we bring to every relationship.

We help manage risk and reduce delays by using SAMMIE as a mission-critical platform with live data, predictive alerts, and exception management so importers can manage risk, reduce delays, and reclaim control.

SAMMIE sends smart, preemptive alerts about delays, reroutes, or exceptions so you are notified before you even ask.