Zim acquires 500 new reefer containers

ZIM Integrated Shipping Services has expanded its reefer fleet with an additional 500 Star Cool reefers obtained from Maersk Container Industry (MCI). The containers are expected to begin operating as of this month.  This move supports ZIM’s growth in new markets for perishable cargo. The new reefer containers are upgraded with controlled atmosphere (CA) units, allowing ZIM to grow in new markets for perishable cargo.

Michal Marcus, ZIMonitor product manager, said that “these advanced units are specifically suited for sensitive products, such as blueberries and avocado, and will enable more customers to enjoy the advantages of ZIM’s exclusive ZIMonitor service.”

This is ZIM’s fourth consecutive order from MCI, which is the Maersk owned company specialized in manufacturing refrigerated containers and refrigeration machines.  The deal showcases the ongoing collaboration and partnership between Zim and MCI. Maersk hopes there will be more orders from ZIM, according to a company spokesperson, as the Haifa-based carrier is continuously upgrading its reefer fleet.

With South American exports of commodities such as meats and fruits booming in the first quarter of 2020, the region has faced reefer equipment shortages that have led to a number of Extra Loaders being deployed to bolster the available stock. None more famous than the arrival of the APL Paris (operated by CMA CGM) at Navegantes, rather than Santos, owing to vessel length restrictions. Other carriers have also inserted Extra Loaders to keep up the supply of reefer boxes to their shipper clients in Brazil, especially in the southern states [Parana, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul] which are the engine room for chicken and pork exporters.

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