More than 15 years of experience in international Reefer Cargo shipping
Canada
Canada
The route from Montreal to Toronto via ocean is particularly advantageous for transporting fresh produce and chilled food, ensuring optimal preservation during transit. Utilizing maritime transport allows for bulk shipping, which can reduce costs while maintaining the integrity of refrigerated and frozen items. This route also offers a reliable method to manage temperature-sensitive goods, minimizing the risk of spoilage. As a result, suppliers can confidently deliver high-quality products to the thriving Toronto market.
Both Montreal and Toronto boast robust port infrastructures that support the efficient handling of perishable goods. Montreal's port is equipped with specialized facilities for refrigeration, allowing for the seamless transfer of fresh and frozen food items. In Toronto, the port offers advanced logistics capabilities, including temperature-controlled storage and distribution centers, ensuring that products remain in optimal condition upon arrival. Together, these infrastructures facilitate a smooth flow of fresh and frozen goods between the two major cities.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Shipments must comply with Canadian export control regulations, including restricted-party screening and controlled goods licensing where applicable
All imports are subject to Canada Border Services Agency requirements, including applicable duties and taxes.
DNA Expert Assessment
Low - Domestic or FTA Route
Very High - Requires Specialized Care
When shipping from Montreal to Toronto via ocean, expect significant delays due to winter storms (December-March); therefore, build in buffer days and flexible delivery windows. Confirm ice-class requirements and icebreaker availability to address freeze conditions (December-March). During the summer holiday peak (late June-early September), plan for tight capacity and higher rates, securing bookings 2-3 weeks in advance. Additionally, coordinate with carriers for real-time weather updates and adjust schedules accordingly to mitigate disruptions (November-March).
When shipping fresh produce, correct packing is critical to control temperature and moisture. We recommend using Insulated cartons with phase-change packs for refrigerated food and...
Keeping the cold chain for chilled food demands tightly controlled handling. Minimize door-open time during loading and unloading so Reefer cargo does not warm or condense. Industr...
For larger volumes of fresh food, selecting the correct container type is critical. We recommend Integrated reefer containers for mixed loads of chilled beverages and Frozen goods ...
Exporting fresh food often demands additional documentation beyond a standard commercial invoice. Depending on destination, you may need Health certificates, temperature-control re...
Before pickup, stage fresh produce at the correct temperature: typically 0–4°C for chilled food and −18°C or below for Frozen food. Avoid storing Fresh produce directly on the floo...
Moving fresh produce successfully demands a continuous cold chain. Use Insulated packaging with the right amount of gel packs for Chilled 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 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. 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 fresh food and frozen food. 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 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 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. Chilled food typically needs temperatures above freezing, while Frozen goods must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, We recommend separating them into different temperature-controlled shipments to avoid freezing Fresh produce or partially thawing frozen items.
When shipping fresh and frozen food via ocean freight, it is crucial to maintain appropriate temperature controls throughout the journey. This involves using refrigerated containers that can ensure the required temperature ranges for chilled and frozen products. Additionally, proper loading and unloading practices must be followed to minimize temperature fluctuations that could compromise product quality.
Since both Montreal and Toronto are located within Canada, there are no customs duties; however, compliance with the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR) is mandatory. This includes ensuring that all food products are sourced from registered facilities and that proper documentation, such as health and safety certificates, is maintained to verify product safety and quality during transport.
Yes, online access is available access all documents—bills of lading, invoices, customs forms, and arrival notices—in SAMMIE’s centralized, searchable document hub.
Yes, DNA provides periodic performance reviews and account check-ins so you can review metrics and discuss needs or questions live.
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