Shipping Chilled Food from Suape to Columbus via Ocean Freight

Moving perishable goods 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 goods can in many cases 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 chilled food 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 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 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 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 goods must stay well below zero. If only one temperature setpoint is available, most logistics providers recommend separating them into different temperature-controlled shipments to avoid freezing Fresh produce or partially thawing frozen items.

Proper temperature control is crucial for fresh and frozen food shipping. Containers must be equipped with reliable refrigeration systems to maintain required temperatures, ensuring that chilled food is kept at 0-4°C and frozen food at -18°C or lower throughout the journey. Additionally, monitoring systems should be in place to track temperature during transit.

Shipments of fresh and frozen food must comply with USDA and FDA regulations, including inspection and import permits. Additionally, documentation such as a phytosanitary certificate for plant products and compliance with the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) is required to ensure health and safety standards are met for entry into the U.S.

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DNA Supply Chain Solutions’ mission is to provide valuable logistics services so clients feel under the care, guidance, and expertise of professionals, supported by constant visibility, attention to detail, smart technology, and data mastery.