• the optimal temperature requirement

• the fresh air ventilation requirement (in cbm/hour)

• the humidity requirement

• the transport time

• the practical shelf life of the product

• the volume of cargo

• the packaging materials and cartons used

• the recommended stowage pattern

• the required documentation, including legislative requirements

• the container is set at the optimal temperature, ventilation and humidity levels

• cargo is never stowed above the red load line

• cargo is stable and evenly stowed (weight should be distributed evenly for maximum stability and the entire floor should be covered)

• the total cargo weight does not exceed the maximum payload of the container

• the total weight of the container (including container, cargo, chassis and genset) does not exceed the road limitations in any country crossed during transport



• if cargo is palletised, dunnage is placed in the centre channel between pallets

• cargo is blocked and braced as necessary

• frozen or chilled cargo requirements are followed

• follow checklist for reefer cargo

• pre-freeze cargo before stuffing

• ensure that fresh-air ventilation is CLOSED

• follow our checklist for reefer cargo

• pre-cool cargo before stuffing

• set unit at carrying temperature, not lower (a lower set point will not expedite the cooling process and may damage cargo)

• set fresh air ventilation as required

1. Methods of refrigeration

Refrigeration is essentially the removal of heat through the process of evaporation. We choose to refrigerate commodities such as fruits and vegetables because we want to prolong their “practical shelf life” – the time from harvest until the product loses its commercial value.
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2. Reefer cargo stuffing

it is essential that all products are treated correctly prior to stuffing. Even though the temperature, ventilation and humidity are all optimal during the entire voyage, products will only arrive in perfect condition if the pre-treatment has been performed correctly. Successful shipping begins at the product sourcing area.
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3. Growing demand for container refrigeration

On deck refrigerated containers are generally serviced by clip-on air cooled electric motor drive cooling units. The units are plugged into the ships electrical system by way of suitable deck sockets.
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4. Frozen products packaging requirement

Proper packaging procedures will help protect frozen cargo during transport. Frozen products do not require air holes in the top and bottom of the cartons. Air flowing around the load is sufficient to remove heat that has penetrated the container. The cartons should be stacked directly on top of each other to take advantage of their strength in the corners.
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5. Packaging & stowage guideline for reefer cargo

Packaging plays an important role when it comes to protecting the cargo. The packaging material must be able to support a stacking height of up to 2.4 metres (7’10’’). The material should be able to withstand humidity without collapsing, and should allow the passage of an adequate vertical airflow through the cartons in order to maintain the desired temperature..
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6. Choice of packaging for various commodities

Goods should be well stowed within the package, evenly distributed and properly secured. Items completely filling the case or carton contribute to the strength of the whole package. Items which do not completely fill the package must be cushioned against shock or vibration.
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7. How to keep cargo fresh ?

Proper ventilation of fresh, chilled products is necessary to remove the heat, carbon dioxide and other gases produced by the cargo. Heat is removed by continuously circulating the internal air, whereas carbon dioxide and other gases are removed by replacing the internal air supply with cooled fresh air..
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8. Loading precautions for refrigerated cargoes

Refrigerated cargoes include meat carcases, carton (packed) meat, fruit, cheese, butter, fish and offal. Ships are specifically designed for their carriage, with separate spaces in holds and ’tween decks, each fitted with suitable insulation and individual control of ventilation. Ordinary general cargoes may be carried in the spaces at other times, the temperature being regulated accordingly for the type of cargo being carried.
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9. Role classification societies maintaining seaworthiness of vessels

classification societies publish rules and regulations which are principally concerned with the strength of the ship, the provision of adequate equipment, and the reliability of the machinery .
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10. Periodic survey requirement by classification societies

To maintain the assigned class all steel ships are required to be surveyed and examined by the Society’s surveyors at regular periods. The major hull items to be examined at these surveys only are discussed here..
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