ONE launches world’s first dual-temperature ocean reefer
- PostedPublished 13 September 2024
Ocean Network Express (ONE), operator of the world’s sixth-largest container ship fleet, has introduced the first dual-temperature reefer.

A collaborative effort between ONE, time-critical cargo specialist NAX Japan and international discount retail chain Pan Pacific International Holdings (PPIH) is trailing the reefers in Japan with the aim of addressing challenges faced in maintaining freshness during long ocean voyages, particularly for highly sought-after Japanese fruits and vegetables.
“Controlled Atmosphere” (CA) technology creates two temperature zones, to enable transportation of smaller quantities of a diverse range of perishable commodities within a single reefer. As a result, transportation costs are reduced, inventory requirements are minimised, and both CO2 emissions and food loss are decreased.
These benefits extend to the 109 overseas “Don Quijote” stores operated by PPIH, but in particular to countries with fewer stores, such as Thailand and Malaysia, where loading efficiency is crucial.

Inside the reefer is a foldable partition that accommodates the different temperature zones. One section, positioned adjacent to the refrigeration unit stores both chilled and frozen goods, ensuring cargo remains within a temperature range of -30°C to +30°C, akin to that of a standard refrigerated reefer.
The other compartment employs a thermal fan to circulate cold air through the ceiling, maintaining cargo between -5°C and +30°C.
Flexible partition positioning caters to specific requirements and the divider can also be stored in the ceiling when not in use so that the container operates as a standard refrigerated unit.

The trial and manufacturing of the dual-temperature refrigerated reefer received support from a subsidy project initiated in 2022 by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries in Japan as part of its commitment to promoting the export of Japanese agricultural products on a global scale while fostering innovation and sustainability in the logistics industry.
As a collaborative effort, the new reefer design underscores the refrigerated transport industry’s dedication to reducing cost challenges and maintaining freshness while transporting perishables at sea.
- CategoriesIn SightGlass
- Tagsrefrigerated transport, shipping, SightGlass News Issue 33, transport refrigeration