An interview with Antonino Ferraiolo, Reefer Expert at MSC:

Antonino Ferraiolo, Reefer Expert at MSC

Q. Why is MSC investing in these new reefer containers?

A. This order adds more capacity for transporting temperature-sensitive cargo, offering even more options for our customers, and it is the largest ever order of the XtendFRESH option. With investments like this, we are ensuring that our reefer fleet is up-to-date and sustainable, and ready for any forthcoming regulatory changes around emissions. We take our commitment to running sustainable business seriously and will continue to make further investments in low-carbon technology, energy and operational efficiency.

Q. What is special about them?

The PrimeLINE unit – which offers the provision to use R-513A refrigerant, featuring a significantly lower global warming potential – was selected by MSC as an option for the Carrier Transicold refrigeration units being installed on new 40-foot high-cube containers.

The XtendFRESH system manages oxygen and carbon dioxide levels and removes ethylene, thus slowing the ripening of produce and helping to preserve its quality beyond what can be achieved by refrigeration alone. In use, the system’s patented, self-regenerating activated-carbon scrubber assembly captures carbon dioxide and ethylene, a hormone given off by ripening produce that can accelerate ripening if left unchecked. As perishable cargo consumes oxygen, on-demand fresh-air ventilation automatically maintains the optimum level inside the container.

Q. What other investments are you making in reefer?

MSC continues to invest in the latest reefer technologies to ensure we offer our customers the optimal transport conditions for their perishable cargo. This order follows one for 2,000 containers chilled by Carrier Transicold’s innovative, sustainable natural refrigerant-based NaturaLINE® refrigeration system.

Q. How does advanced reefer technology help MSC’s customers?

Of our 1.6 million TEU annual reefer shipments, over 40,000 TEU are Controlled Atmosphere (CA), an active process to regulate modified atmosphere composition, allowing a longer shelf life of the product. Over 20,000 TEU were Cold Treatment (CT), a procedure to eliminate pests in fresh fruit and avoid spreading them to other locations. These allow for longer transit times while keeping the produce in the best shape possible, opening up new markets and opportunities for our customers.

Q. How can customers find out more about MSC’s reefer services?

For customers wanting to find out more about how reefer and the cold chain work, the MSC Reefer MasterClass offers the opportunity to learn more about new technology and how it keeps cargo fresh. It brings together representatives from the whole supply chain, features real-life demonstrations of how a reefer container operates on its journey, and can be organised anywhere around the world according to customer demand.

Click here if you want to learn more about MSC Reefer services