Maersk has launched an integrated cold chain solution for Chilean grape imports into the United States, developed in collaboration with fresh produce supplier Oppy and the Port of Wilmington.
The model connects operations at origin in Chile with ocean transport, U.S. port handling, fumigation, cold storage and inland logistics, aiming to improve speed to market, transparency and reliability for temperature-sensitive cargo.
According to Maersk, the initiative addresses a longstanding challenge in perishables logistics: limited fumigation capacity at key U.S. gateways. By coordinating services across the value chain, the company says the new setup provides a more predictable route for regulated produce entering the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and Southeast.
Destination fumigation to reduce bottlenecks
For regulated commodities such as grapes, fumigation is required before entry into the United States. Traditionally, this process has been carried out either at origin or at congested gateway ports, which can lead to delays, longer dwell times and greater risk to cargo quality.
The new solution shifts fumigation to destination and integrates it with downstream cold chain operations. This approach is designed to reduce bottlenecks, speed up cargo availability and strengthen supply chain predictability.
“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,” said Le Harlin, Head of Growth Enablement – Cold Chain at Maersk North America.
Wilmington strengthens its role as a cold chain gateway
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 allows cargo to move from vessel discharge through fumigation and onward distribution, supported by Maersk’s cold storage facility in Wilmington.
Pilot launched during the Chilean grape season
The system was piloted during the 2026 Chilean grape season, with weekly sailings supported by destination fumigation and inland distribution through Wilmington.
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According to Maersk, the pilot delivered faster cargo availability and reduced transport costs compared with alternative routings.
A model for other regulated commodities
Beyond grapes, the expanded fumigation capability can also support 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.
The collaboration between Maersk and Oppy was recognised by the Port of Wilmington, which presented both companies with a Pioneer Award for their work on the project.
