Shipping Refrigerated Food from Shenzhen to Columbus via Ocean Freight

Moving perishable goods successfully Requires a continuous cold chain. Use cooler boxes with the right amount of gel packs for Chilled 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 food 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. Most experts 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. Most shippers should 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 adequate insulation 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 temperature-controlled shipment 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 food must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, We recommend separating them into different Reefer cargo shipments to avoid freezing perishable goods or partially thawing frozen items.

When shipping Fresh & Frozen Food, it is essential to maintain temperature control throughout the journey. This includes using refrigerated containers for chilled food and frozen food to prevent spoilage. Proper packing materials that provide insulation and moisture control should also be utilized to ensure product integrity during transit.

Regulatory requirements include compliance with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, which require prior notice for food shipments. Additionally, all imported food products must meet U.S. safety standards and labeling requirements. Importers must also ensure that their products are free from pests and pathogens as per U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations.

DNA manages ISF, AMS, and ACE filings for your shipments.

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