Refrigerated cargo is cargo whose nature requires a certain temperature control, and is normally perishable. Refrigerated cargo is normally placed in containers termed as Reefers.

Checklist for reefer cargo

When preparing for a refrigerated shipment, always determine:

• Optimal temperature requirement.
• Fresh air ventilation requirement (in cbm/hour).
• Humidity requirement.
• Transport time.
• Practical shelf life of the product.
• Volume of cargo.
• Packaging materials and cartons used.
• Recommended stowage pattern.
• Required documentation, including legislative requirements.

Before and during stuffing, always make sure:

• Container is set at the optimal temperature, ventilation and humidity levels.
• Cargo is never stowed above the red load line.
• Cargo is stable, evenly stowed (weight is distributed evenly and the entire floor is be covered) and blocked and braced as necessary.
• Total cargo weight does not exceed the maximum payload of the container.
• Total weight of the container (unit, cargo, chassis and genset) does not exceed the road limitations in any country crossed during transport.
• Entire load is stowed according to our stowage guidelines.
• If cargo is palletised, dunnage is placed in the centre channel between pallets.
• Frozen or chilled cargo requirements are followed.

For frozen cargo, always:

• Follow our checklist for reefer cargo.
• Pre-freeze cargo before stuffing.
• Ensure that fresh air ventilation is closed.

For chilled cargo, always:

• Follow our checklist for reefer cargo.
• Pre-cool cargo before stuffing.
• Set unit at carrying temperature, not lower (lower set point will not expedite cooling process and may damage cargo).
• Set fresh air ventilation as required.