Maersk has launched a new integrated cold chain solution connecting Chile with the U.S. East Coast, aiming to improve the transport of regulated fresh produce into the United States. The solution combines origin handling, ocean freight, port operations, fumigation, cold storage and inland transportation into a single logistics service. Maersk developed the solution with fresh produce supplier Oppy and the Port of Wilmington in North Carolina. Destination fumigation reduces delays The new service addresses limited fumigation capacity at major US ports. Instead of fumigating cargo at origin or congested gateway ports, Maersk performs the process after arrival in Wilmington. The company said the approach reduces bottlenecks, shortens dwell times and improves supply chain reliability for temperature-sensitive cargo. Pilot completed during grape season Maersk tested the solution during the 2026 Chilean grape season. The pilot included weekly sailings supported by destination fumigation and inland distribution through Wilmington. According to the company, the trial reduced transportation costs and made cargo available more quickly than alternative routings. Expanding capacity for regulated produce The project included a six-month expansion of fumigation capacity at the Port of Wilmington through additional permits and infrastructure upgrades. Cargo now moves directly from vessel discharge to fumigation, cold storage and inland distribution using Maersk’s integrated logistics network. In addition to grapes, the facility can also handle regulated products such as asparagus, blueberries and citrus. Maersk said Wilmington offers an efficient gateway to the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern United States, while helping reduce congestion at larger US ports. The Port of Wilmington recognised Maersk and Oppy with a Pioneer Award for their collaboration on the project. The post Maersk launches integrated cold chain solution for Chile-US produce trade appeared first on Container