In a bid to help reduce costly compensation claims and minimize the potential loss which can occur when transporting chilled and frozen foodstuffs, independent marine survey and consultancy, BMT De Beer, has published a complete set of guidelines for the reefer sector. Based on a typical 40ft container, the value of such goods, including shellfish can reach a staggering 400,000 Euros.
Titled ‘BMT De Beer’s Consolidated Manual on Storage and Transport of Chilled and Frozen Foodstuffs’ this guide provides invaluable information for those involved in the transportation of this refrigerated cargo. After a general introduction on transport and controlled atmospheric conditions, the manual focuses on specific topics such as meat (chilled and frozen), fish and poultry.
With experience in the survey of perishable cargo which spans over 25 years, author Harm de Haan, a former seafarer and currently a Senior Marine Surveyor at BMT De Beer commented: “€400,000 a container is money most companies can ill afford to lose in today’s economic conditions. Ensuring that these foodstuffs are cooled, shipped and stored within optimum conditions is vital in order to avoid costly claims being made. We are confident that providing a single, easily accessible and understandable document which draws on BMT De Beer’s unrivalled knowledge and expertise will support clients in their efforts to deliver such goods to the required standard.”
Referencing the latest legislation requirements, the manual also looks closely at the specifications surrounding the transportation of frozen fish, including the extremely particular tuna trade on board
specialised reefer vessels. Yntze Buitenwerf at Seatrade who was recently presented with the first copy of the manual commented: “Transporting perishable goods is a complex and delicate operation and quality can be lost through this process due to a lack of information. Whether you have been in the industry one month or 20 years, this manual comprehensively covers all areas associated with these goods and presents the information in an easy to read and understandable format.”
The guide is the last in the series of reefer manuals compiled by shipping specialist Harm de Haan. Also available in the set are: ‘BMT De Beer’s Consolidated Manual on Postharvest Handling, Cooling and Storage of Fruit and Vegetables’ (2008) and ‘BMT De Beer’s Consolidated Manual On (Dutch) Flower Bulbs, Cut Flowers/Greens and Potted Plants’ (2010).