Shipping Reefer Cargo from San Jose to Colon via Ocean Freight

Moving Fresh food successfully necessitates a continuous cold chain. Use thermal containers 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 food can Usually 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 Frozen food at temperature while staying within dry‑ice limits.

Standard cargo policies may limit coverage for temperature-related loss on Perishable goods and frozen food. Insurance specialists generally 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 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 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 perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.

Proper temperature control is essential throughout the ocean freight journey to maintain the quality of fresh and frozen food. This includes using refrigerated containers and monitoring temperature during loading, transit, and unloading. Additionally, swift handling at both ports is crucial to minimize exposure to ambient temperatures.

Shipments of fresh and frozen food must comply with both Costa Rican and Panamanian health regulations, including obtaining necessary health certificates and permits. Import documentation, such as invoices and packing lists, must also be provided to ensure compliance with customs regulations in both countries.

Customers have shared that they want to use SAMMIE for every ocean freight shipment they move because having all shipment data in one dashboard is invaluable and time-saving.

DNA’s One Test Run Challenge is an invitation to give DNA Supply Chain Solutions one test shipment so we can prove what visibility, reliability, and real partnership feel like with just a single shipment.

“DNA” comes from a conversation between our founder and his daughter, Ameerah, who suggested merging their names—David ‘N’ Ameerah—to create DNA, reflecting strong bonds, shared values, and trust.