Shipping Line: Maersk is using latest generation reefer containers to export grapes from India to Europe

For the first time, Maersk Line is offering an end-to-end cold chain logistics solution for grape exporters based in the Indian regions of Nashik and Sangli, thereby improving the overall transit time into North European markets by 4 days. Gearing up for the peak grape season, Maersk is offering booking management, on-land and ocean transportation, cargo tracking and customs clearance, amongst other services, as a part of the end-to-end solution.

The movement of grapes is being undertaken in reefer containers fitted with a Remote Container Management system that monitors atmospheric conditions inside the container and provides visibility of relevant data to customers. Maersk is also deploying a reefer technician to supervise operations throughout the journey.

Steve Felder, Managing Director, Maersk South Asia, said, “By providing a one-stop-shop solution, we are enabling the farmers to focus on what they do best, leave the logistics to us and not get bothered by any challenges that they might face in the journey of their produce from their farms to their customers.” The company is also looking to target other regional products including onions, tomato, chilli, baby corn and okra, which are considered to have considerable trade potential on global markets.

Felder adds, “With our cold chain logistics solutions, we aim to further open-up and liberalise the agro-economy of the country, enabling farmers and entrepreneurs to be a part of the international trade ecosystem.”