Shipping companies are increasingly taking control of the entire reefer logistics chain, from farm to final destination, to improve fruit quality and reduce wastage, according to logistics consultant Andy Connell.
“It is inefficient to use reefers solely for port-to-port transport. They are mobile warehouses with refrigeration capabilities,” Connell told Freight News.
“Reefers should be packed and kept under hermetically sealed conditions as close as possible to the point of production. They should only come off power when they reach their destination.”
Connell highlighted that this approach is gaining traction. By constructing chilled cross-dock facilities near major growing areas, shipping lines can better manage container movement and reduce equipment shortages.
“This ensures that perishable products enter the cold chain two to ten days earlier than if they were moved through quayside chilled cross-dock facilities,” Connell explained.
Shipping lines are now able to offer a true door-to-door service, providing customers with a single invoice for packing, transport, and shipping.
“This gives both the producer and customer peace of mind. As a shipper, you simply seal the container and get paid 30 days later when it arrives at your customer’s door,” Connell added.
