Powering India’s Cold Chain: Driving Growth with Integrated Reefer Transportation Solutions

The global trade environment today demands more than standard shipping, especially for temperature-sensitive cargo. Whether navigating market shifts or safeguarding high-value products, supply chain resilience now hinges on maintaining an unbroken transportation chain from origin to destination.

At Ocean Network Express (ONE), we are committed to supporting this resilience and enabling growth in India’s thriving reefer sector. Recently, we engaged directly with our customers at two key industry events — Cold Chain Unbroken in Hyderabad and the India International Seafood Show (IISS) in Delhi. Across these conversations, one message was clear: the market needs truly integrated, end-to-end cold chain solutions that can keep pace with India’s growth ambitions.

Here are two key takeaways and how ONE is helping customers stay ahead of the curve.

• Strengthen Cold Chain Resilience Through Reliable Intermodal Connectivity
  With evolving tariffs and shipping dynamics, minimising risk and building resilience early in the journey has never been more important. For many exporters, that journey begins inland — and ensuring smooth, reliable connections from the start helps protect cargo quality, reduce risks, and maintain cold chain integrity well before it reaches the main port.
  
  Intermodal Reefer Rail: Keeping the Cold Chain Unbroken
  For temperature-sensitive cargo such as Pharmaceuticals (vaccines, biologics), and high-value perishables (frozen seafood, fruits and vegetables), predictability is profitability. Intermodal rail offers a powerful advantage against the long-distance risks and congestion delays inherent in a trucking-only approach.
  
  To minimize temperature deviations and inland transport delays, we are rapidly expanding our dedicated intermodal reefer rail services.
  
  Direct connections, including Hyderabad to Nhava Sheva and the block rake service from ICD Virochannagar (Ahmedabad) to Mundra Port—provide fixed schedules and single-point coordination. By linking production centers directly to gateway ports, our customers gain: 

  -	Greater reliability and schedule integrity
  -	Predictable transit times
  -	Reduced temperature fluctuations and handling risks, (essential for meeting regulatory demands like Good Distribution Practice, or GDP).
  -	Streamlined coordination and simplified logistics

Cold chain success depends on control. With CONTAINER+, you can gain real-time insight into temperature, humidity, and location. This data doesn’t just inform — it empowers proactive action, helping prevent spoilage and protect cargo value.

• Navigate Market Shifts with a Partner That Scales Globally
  Exporters are seeking new markets due to trade barriers, particularly in the U.S. The ability to quickly redirect volumes is essential, driven by commercial pressures like seafood tariffs and vital supply chain requirements such as pharmaceutical distribution. Adaptability and speed are the key to supply chain resilience.
  
  With a fleet of over 260 vessels and a network covering more than 120 countries, ONE is your strategic partner for refrigerated cargo. Whether you are redirecting frozen perishables or managing the global flow of pharmaceuticals, our network capacity is readily available.

The Road Ahead
The evolution of the cold chain demands a single, integrated approach that connects technology, reliable inland transport, and a vast global vessel network. This approach offers visibility, reliability, and confidence required to thrive, even in uncertain times.

As Your Number ONE Shipping Partner, we don’t just move cargo; we build the infrastructure that helps your business thrive. 

Speak with your local Ocean Network Express representative to make your cold chain your strongest competitive edge.