Transport under controlled temperature and insurance

The transport of perishable goods is carried out through containers called Reefers. These refrigerated transport units designed for the transport of perishable goods, such as food and pharmaceutical products, require precise temperature control.

If the transportation of goods under controlled temperature remains a niche in the landscape of ISO containers, its growth is strong and steady. This segment currently represents 17% to 19% of container volumes on East and West maritime routes.

What are the technical elements that characterize it?

1. Temperature control:

The main role of a Reefer container is to maintain a stable temperature inside, generally between -30°C and +30°C, depending on the needs of the goods. This control is ensured by an integrated refrigeration system, which operates according to a precise cycle:

• Compressor: It compresses a refrigerant gas, increasing its temperature and pressure.
• Condenser: This hot gas is cooled in the condenser, becoming liquid while releasing heat outside.
• Expansion valve: The refrigerant undergoes a decrease in pressure and temperature, transforming into a very cold liquid.
• Evaporator: The cold liquid absorbs heat from the indoor air, cooling it down. This cycle repeats continuously, ensuring a stable temperature.

2. Controlled atmosphere

In addition to temperature control, some Reefer containers offer a controlled atmosphere (CA) system. This system allows for the regulation of gas composition to extend the shelf life of certain products such as fruits and vegetables. By adjusting levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and sometimes nitrogen, this system slows down the respiration of perishable products, delaying their ripening.

How to reduce the risks of disaster with a reefer container?

To ensure the efficiency of transporting perishable goods in a Reefer container, certain precautions are essential to avoid accidents that could compromise the quality of the products.

Is the carrier responsible for losses resulting from a malfunction of the container?

The carrier's responsibility in case of a reefer container breakdown during transport is not so easy to determine. Several factors will influence determining the level of responsibility of a company, and its scale.

1. The transport contract:

The transport contract, particularly the general conditions, will allocate the responsibilities of each party. It is important to check this contract to determine if the carrier is responsible, for example, for a visible leak problem at the time of loading.

2. The applicable regulations:

The applicable regulations are generally set out in the transport contract. This will allow for the establishment of the carrier's liability regime by limiting its liability through compensation ceilings, or by determining exclusion cases that allow a carrier to be released from liability.

It appears that the main risk for any cargo interest victim of damage on a reefer is that of partial compensation by the shipping company - even if it is found responsible. Liability limits will systematically protect the carrier in this regard.

It is therefore highly recommended to take out goods in transit insurance covering all losses resulting from damage during transport.