Maersk has launched an integrated cold chain solution connecting origin operations in Chile with ocean transport, U.S. port handling, fumigation, inland logistics and cold storage, creating a scalable model for regulated produce moving into the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
Developed in collaboration with fresh produce supplier Oppy and the Port of Wilmington, the solution addresses a longstanding challenge in perishables logistics: constrained fumigation capacity at key U.S. gateways. By coordinating services across the value chain, Maersk says the solution improves speed to market, transparency and reliability for temperature-sensitive cargo.
For regulated commodities such as grapes, fumigation is required for entry into the United States. Traditionally performed at origin or congested gateway ports, fumigation can introduce delays, longer dwell times and increased risk to cargo quality. By shifting fumigation to destination and integrating it with downstream cold chain operations, the new setup is intended to reduce bottlenecks and improve supply chain predictability.
The solution connects origin handling in Chile with delivery in the U.S. through coordinated ocean transport, port operations, fumigation, storage and inland logistics.
“This solution was built end to end—from origin handling in Chile to delivery in the U.S. By coordinating ocean, port, fumigation, storage and inland logistics, we are able to provide customers with greater visibility and control, enabling them to move regulated produce, specifically grapes, more efficiently and at scale.” Le Harlin, Head of Growth Enablement – Cold Chain, Maersk North America
The solution was developed through collaboration between Maersk’s teams in Latin America and North America, together with port partners and regulators. Over a six-month period, fumigation capacity at the Port of Wilmington was expanded through additional permits and infrastructure upgrades. This enables cargo to move from vessel discharge through fumigation and onward distribution, supported by Maersk’s cold storage facility in Wilmington.
The solution was piloted during the 2026 Chilean grape season, with weekly sailings supported by destination fumigation and inland distribution via Wilmington. According to Maersk, the pilot resulted in faster cargo availability and reduced transportation costs compared with alternative routings.
In addition to grapes, the expanded fumigation capability supports other regulated commodities, including asparagus, blueberries and citrus. Maersk says Wilmington provides an additional gateway for the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast, helping improve access to regional markets while easing congestion at larger ports.
Maersk and Oppy received a Pioneer Award from the Port of Wilmington for their collaboration on the project.