Shipping Refrigerated Food from Norfolk to Honolulu via Ocean Freight

Transporting fresh produce successfully necessitates a continuous cold chain. Use cooler boxes with the right amount of gel packs for refrigerated 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 temperature-controlled freight.

Yes, frozen goods can often 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. Most experts 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 restrict coverage for temperature-related loss on fresh food and frozen food. Most shippers should 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 adequate insulation was used before honoring claims.

Most chilled beverages 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 temperature-controlled shipment is set correctly.

You can sometimes mix chilled food 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 food must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, best practice is separating them into different Reefer cargo shipments to avoid freezing perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.

When shipping fresh and frozen food via ocean freight, it is crucial to ensure proper temperature control throughout the journey. This includes using refrigerated containers to maintain the required temperature for chilled and frozen products. Additionally, packaging must be robust to withstand potential humidity and temperature fluctuations during transit.

Shipping fresh and frozen food within the United States requires compliance with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations. Proper documentation includes a bill of lading, packing list, and any necessary health certificates to verify product safety and compliance with federal regulations. It is important to ensure all documentation is accurately completed to avoid customs delays.

With one shipment, SAMMIE can demonstrate the visibility, reliability, and partnership benefits it delivers.

DNA Supply Chain captures our belief that success in business, like in life, depends on a foundation built on strong bonds, shared values, and trust, which we bring to every client relationship.

Our system was developed after a high-stakes wake-up call in 2017, when a critical container for a client’s first shipment with Marriott was delayed by 10 days, prompting us to build a more accurate, visibility-focused solution.