More than 20 years of experience in worldwide Reefer Cargo shipping
Netherlands
Mexico
The route from Rotterdam to Manzanillo offers significant advantages for transporting fresh produce and frozen food. Utilizing ocean freight allows for the preservation of temperature-controlled conditions, ensuring that chilled and frozen items maintain their quality throughout the journey. Additionally, this route benefits from established shipping lanes that are optimized for efficient transit, reducing the risk of delays that could compromise the integrity of perishable goods.
Rotterdam boasts state-of-the-art port facilities equipped with advanced refrigeration technologies, making it an ideal starting point for shipping refrigerated food. Similarly, Manzanillo's infrastructure includes specialized cold storage facilities and efficient customs processes to handle incoming fresh and frozen food shipments. Both ports are well-connected to major transportation networks, facilitating quick distribution to local markets and retailers.
Comparative analysis of origin and destination capabilities.
Exporters must comply with European Union dual-use and sanctions regulations, such as controls on sensitive technologies
Imports require full customs declarations, accurate valuation, and adherence to Mexican NOM technical standards where applicable
DNA Expert Assessment
Very High - Complex Regulatory Environment
Very High - Requires Specialized Care
When shipping from Rotterdam to Manzanillo, expect significant disruptions due to seasonal factors. During winter storms (November-March), allow for additional buffer days for potential port congestion and delays. Secure vessel space well in advance for the Christmas retail peak (October-December) to avoid tight delivery windows. Additionally, monitor weather forecasts during the eastern Pacific hurricane season (June-November) to adjust routes as necessary. Plan for increased labor shortages during the European summer holiday peak (July-August) and adjust cut-off times accordingly to maintain schedule reliability.
When shipping fresh produce, robust packaging Is essential to control temperature and moisture. We recommend using Insulated cartons with phase-change packs for refrigerated food a...
Keeping the cold chain for fresh produce Requires tightly controlled handling. Minimize door-open time during loading and unloading so Reefer cargo does not warm or condense. Indus...
For larger volumes of fresh food, booking the correct container type is Essential. We recommend Integrated reefer containers for mixed loads of chilled beverages and Frozen goods t...
Exporting refrigerated food often Requires additional documentation beyond a standard commercial invoice. Depending on destination, you may need Health certificates, temperature-co...
Before pickup, stage perishable goods at the correct temperature: typically 0–4°C for Refrigerated food and −18°C or below for Frozen food. Avoid storing Fresh produce directly on ...
Moving perishable goods successfully Requires 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 temperature-controlled freight.
Yes, frozen goods can in many cases be shipped with dry ice by air, but dry ice is regulated as a dangerous good. Airlines Set 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 chilled food and Frozen goods. 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 goods products must remain at −18°C or colder. Exact ranges depend on the product type and local regulations. Always Confirm 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 goods in the same load, but only if your container or vehicle can maintain separate temperature zones. Fresh produce 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.
Shipping fresh and frozen food requires maintaining specific temperature controls throughout the journey to ensure product integrity. It is essential to use refrigerated containers (reefers) that can sustain the required temperature for chilled and frozen goods. Proper loading techniques and securing of the cargo are also critical to prevent temperature fluctuations and damage during transit.
Regulatory requirements include obtaining necessary health certificates and phytosanitary certificates for fresh produce to comply with Mexican import regulations. Additionally, all food products must meet the specific labeling and packaging requirements set by Mexican authorities to ensure safety and compliance upon arrival in Manzanillo.
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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