TOTE Maritime was among the shipping industry’s pioneers in using machine-to-machine or M2M telematics technology to remotely monitor and control conditions of refrigerated perishables during transport. Since 2011, TOTE Maritime has deployed Orbcomm’s StarGuard system to monitor and control its refrigerated containers, or reefers, from point of origin to destination. The monitoring maximizes safety and efficiency of supply chain operations while providing clients crucial real-time, end-to-end visibility of their shipments in TOTE Maritime’s cold chain.
TOTE Maritime’s entire reefer fleet is now equipped with the StarGuard system. The fleet will now also utilize ORBCOMM’s new GMS-based VesselConnect M2M application securely providing critical real-time data from reefers. The new technology allows TOTE Maritime to monitor set points, conduct pre-trip inspections on-board and expedite cargo distribution on land. VesselConnect also provides the precise monitoring and record-keeping needed for compliance with the new requirements of the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act being implemented this year.
TOTE Maritime’s latest technology investments are part of TOTE’s commitment to maintain the most modern fleet serving U.S. and Puerto Rico, said Bill Taylor, vice president of U.S. sales. “Our customers rely on TOTE Maritime for dependable refrigerated shipping,” Taylor said. “That’s why it is so important for us to maintain the youngest, most efficient fleet in the industry.”
The new refrigerated containers are scheduled to arrive in Jacksonville this summer. They will be equipped with Carrier’s PrimeLine machinery, the latest cooling technology available for refrigerated equipment. In addition to the 350 new reefers, TOTE Maritime also received 100 new Carrier gensets this spring to provide power to its reefer fleet.
