Reefer Container Monitoring
Telematics monitors and alerts: it does not authorise crew to change set point, ventilation, humidity or atmosphere settings without documented instructions or an approved emergency procedure.
Operational Explanation
Refrigerated containers (reefers) carry perishable or pharmaceutical goods that require a constant temperature (set point) to be maintained for the entire duration of the voyage: any prolonged interruption of the electrical supply or of the cooling unit's operation can irremediably compromise the commercial value of the cargo.
Monitoring relies on two complementary approaches: stand-alone data loggers installed inside the container, which record temperature at regular intervals but require physical retrieval of the device for data analysis, and telematics systems integrated into the cooling unit, which transmit data in real time via cellular or satellite network and allow remote temperature adjustment.
The industry trend is towards continuous, structured electronic records with no gaps, replacing traditional periodic manual checks: this reduces the risk of gaps in temperature traceability, which is particularly critical for the pharmaceutical cold chain.
Regulatory Reference
No Convention governs cargo temperature monitoring. It is worth saying so plainly, because this page pointed to “requirements applicable through SOLAS” without naming a regulation, and no regulation on set point exists.
What SOLAS does govern is the ship's electrical installation feeding the reefer sockets: SOLAS regulations II-1/40-45 on electrical installations, main and emergency power and protection against electrical hazards. Where the reefer sockets are in a hold or an enclosed space, the fire protection requirements of Chapter II-2 for that space apply as well. Construction of the thermal container follows ISO 1496-2; securing and handling follow the CTU Code (IMO/ILO/UNECE, MSC.1/Circ.1497). Where the reefer carries dangerous goods, the applicable regime is the IMDG Code, with the Part 7 stowage provisions for temperature-controlled substances.
The rest is contract. Set point, tolerances, ventilation, recording frequency and the consequences of a deviation are fixed by the shipper's instructions and by the bill of lading; for pharmaceutical products the WHO Good Distribution Practices apply, which are World Health Organization recommendations and become binding only through national law or contract.
Scope of Application
Every container ship or multipurpose ship with reefer plugs on board, for the carriage of perishable goods, pharmaceuticals or other temperature-controlled cargo in refrigerated containers.
Procedure / How to Complete It
- At loading check connection, settings and shipper instructions.
- Monitor and record at the frequency prescribed by contract, carrier procedure and SMS; daily is only an example.
- Investigate alarms and restore power or technical functionality under authorised procedures.
- Do not change set point, ventilation, humidity or atmosphere settings without documented instruction from the authorised party, except under an already approved emergency procedure.
- For every authorised change record request, authorisation, time, old/new setting and confirmation.
Practical Example
A telematics alarm shows temperature out of range. Crew check power and unit under the SMS, inform the authorised party and change the set point only after documented instruction, recording old value, new value and time.
What Typically Goes Wrong
Confusing technical remote-adjustment capability with contractual authority to change settings, or imposing a daily check where a continuous system or contract prescribes another frequency.
Common Mistakes Mistake Library
| Mistake | Consequence | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|
| Daily temperature checks recorded generically, without a time stamp | Inability to demonstrate the real extent of a deviation in case of a dispute | Record checks and alarms with a precise time and details of the cause |
| Temperature alarm detected but not promptly investigated | A prolonged deviation not corrected in time | Investigate and correct every temperature alarm immediately upon detection |
| Data logger log not retrieved or not retained after discharge | No documentary evidence in the event of a commercial dispute | Always retrieve and archive the temperature logs before returning the container |
What the PSCO Checks
Operational Tips
- Treat telematics primarily as monitoring and alerting.
- Separate technical restoration of power from changing cargo settings.
- Retain logs, request and authorisation with the alarm history.
Preparation checklist
- Shipper instructions and contract available
- Monitoring frequency defined by carrier/SMS
- Alarms investigated under procedure
- No cargo setting changed without documented authority
- Old/new setting, time and authorisation recorded
FAQ
Related Topics
Last substantive revision of this page: 31 August 2026 · page fingerprint 19840cbd0e97