Maersk is rolling out a new connectivity platform across its global refrigerated container fleet, that it says will improve monitoring of temperature-sensitive cargo during transit.
About 30% of the shipping line's reefer fleet has already been upgraded with the next-generation Internet of Things (IoT) platform, with the roll-out continuing across the remaining containers.
The new system enables more reliable and frequent transmission of data from reefer containers, allowing cargo conditions to be monitored more closely and helping identify potential problems before they affect shipments, Maersk says.
Improved visibility of refrigerated cargo could help exporters of temperature-sensitive products such as fruit, meat and pharmaceuticals to better monitor shipments and respond more quickly to potential issues, says Bruce Marshall, Head of Reefer Cargo at Maersk. He added that the upgraded platform would also support predictive maintenance of reefer equipment, reducing the likelihood of refrigeration failures during transport.
The roll-out forms part of the company's broader digitalisation strategy to strengthen end-to-end supply chain visibility for refrigerated cargo.
