Maersk Launches Integrated Cold Chain Logistics Solution Linking Chile to the U.S. East Coast
Global shipping leader A.P. Moller – Maersk has introduced a new cold chain logistics solution connecting Chile with the U.S. East Coast, strengthening refrigerated shipping, maritime logistics, and the movement of regulated fresh produce. The integrated supply chain combines origin handling, ocean freight, port operations, fumigation, inland transportation, and cold storage to create a more efficient route for temperature-controlled cargo entering the United States.
Developed in collaboration with fresh produce supplier Oppy and the Port of Wilmington, the new cold chain solution is designed to improve supply chain management by reducing congestion, increasing cargo visibility, and ensuring reliable transportation for perishable exports such as grapes. The model is expected to provide a scalable logistics pathway for regulated produce destined for the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Southeast markets.
Addressing a Long-Standing Fumigation Challenge
Regulated commodities, including grapes, require fumigation before entering the United States. Traditionally, this process has been carried out at the point of origin or at heavily congested U.S. gateway ports, often resulting in shipment delays, longer cargo dwell times, and potential quality risks for perishable goods.
Under the new logistics model, fumigation is performed at the destination and integrated with downstream cold chain operations. This approach minimizes operational bottlenecks while improving the predictability and efficiency of the supply chain.
End-to-End Cold Chain Integration
According to Maersk, the solution provides customers with a fully integrated logistics network from Chile to final delivery in the United States. It combines origin handling, ocean transportation, port operations, fumigation, cold storage, and inland distribution into a single coordinated system.
Le Harlin, Head of Growth Enablement ,Cold Chain at Maersk North America, said the integrated model gives customers greater visibility and control, enabling regulated produce, particularly grapes, to move more efficiently and at scale.
The project was developed through close cooperation between Maersk’s Latin America and North America teams, port partners, and regulatory authorities. Over six months, fumigation capacity at the Port of Wilmington was expanded through additional permits and infrastructure upgrades, allowing cargo to move seamlessly from vessel discharge through fumigation and onward distribution using Maersk’s integrated cold storage facility.
Successful Pilot During the 2026 Chilean Grape Season
The logistics solution was successfully piloted during the 2026 Chilean grape season, featuring weekly sailings supported by coordinated destination fumigation and inland distribution through Wilmington.
According to Maersk, the pilot resulted in faster cargo availability and lower transportation costs compared with alternative shipping routes while demonstrating a repeatable model that can support future expansion.
Expanding Capacity for Regulated Produce
Beyond grapes, the enhanced fumigation infrastructure enables the handling of other regulated agricultural products, including asparagus, blueberries, and citrus.
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With growing consumer demand across the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions, the Port of Wilmington is positioned to serve as a complementary gateway to larger U.S. ports, providing efficient market access while helping reduce congestion at major trade hubs.
In recognition of their collaboration on the initiative, Maersk and Oppy received the Pioneer Award from the Port of Wilmington.
