Refrigerated Cargo Insurance
Reefer container and cold chain insurance for temperature-sensitive imports and exports.
About Refrigerated Cargo Insurance
Refrigerated (reefer) cargo insurance covers goods transported in temperature-controlled containers or reefer vessels. South Africa is a major export market for refrigerated perishables, and also imports significant volumes of frozen meat, dairy and pharmaceuticals. Reefer container failures, power interruptions at ports and temperature deviations during transit are the primary risks. Specialist reefer insurance covers not only standard marine risks but also mechanical breakdown of refrigeration equipment, temperature excursions and consequential cargo spoilage. The cold chain must be maintained from origin cold room to destination — any break requires immediate documentation and notification to the insurer.
Commodity Examples
Main Risks
- •Reefer unit mechanical failure
- •Power failure at port during transshipment
- •Temperature setpoint error
- •Extended vessel delay in tropical ports
- •Customs hold causing temperature breach
Recommended Cover
- Institute Frozen Food Clauses (A)
- Reefer breakdown endorsement
- Port congestion delay cover
- Pharmaceutical cargo — enhanced conditions
Incoterms Note
For reefer cargo, the party responsible for insurance under the Incoterms must ensure the policy specifically covers reefer breakdown — this is not always included in standard ICC (A) cover.