A.P. Moller – Maersk 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 Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
Developed in collaboration with Oppy and the Port of Wilmington, the solution addresses constrained fumigation capacity at key U.S. gateways. Doing so improves speed to market, transparency and reliability for temperature-sensitive cargo.
“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,” says Le Harlin, head of growth enablement, cold chain, Maersk North America.
Key takeaways:
· The solution was developed through close collaboration across Maersk’s teams in Latin America and North America, alongside 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 seamlessly from vessel discharge through fumigation and onward distribution, supported by Maersk’s integrated cold storage facility in Wilmington, N.C.
· The solution was piloted during the 2026 Chilean grape season, with weekly sailings supported by coordinated destination fumigation and inland distribution via Wilmington. The pilot demonstrated faster cargo availability and reduced transportation costs compared with alternative routings, while establishing a repeatable model for future growth.
· In addition to grapes, the expanded fumigation capability enables handling of other regulated commodities, including asparagus, blueberries and citrus.
