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Maersk is rolling out next-generation Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity devices across its refrigerated container fleet to improve real-time cargo visibility, standardise data across assets and strengthen cold chain performance for global logistics customers.
Maersk has begun deploying next-generation IoT connectivity devices across its refrigerated container (reefer) fleet as part of a multi-year programme designed to enhance real-time tracking, data consistency and operational reliability in temperature-controlled logistics.
The upgrade is intended to replace all existing IoT devices across the reefer fleet over the coming years, with approximately 30 per cent of containers already fitted with the new technology.
Standardising Cold Chain Connectivity
The rollout forms part of Maersk’s broader effort to standardise digital infrastructure across its logistics network following the completion of its new digital connectivity platform across 450 vessels.
The company says the transition to a single generation of devices will improve data consistency and provide customers with a more reliable end-to-end view of refrigerated cargo throughout transit.
Bruce Marshall, Head of Reefer Cargo at A.P. Moller – Maersk, said: “As real-time access and data availability grow increasingly vital for our cold chain customers, the deployment of our next-generation IoT devices will provide them with a much more reliable data flow throughout the container journey.”
He added: “Our fleet’s new digital platform has created a solid foundation for the future. The next step is to replace all existing IoT devices across our reefer fleet with the latest generation of technology, and we have already begun this work. After years of operating with several generations of devices, this upgrade will standardise our devices and deliver a more consistent customer experience.”
Enhancing Supply Chain Visibility
The upgraded IoT devices are designed to support improved monitoring of temperature-controlled cargo from origin to destination, strengthening visibility for supply chain operators managing perishable and high-value goods.
Since 2019, Maersk has provided customers with access to its Captain Peter visibility platform, which enables shipment tracking from container sealing through to final delivery.
The company said that improving data availability across its reefer fleet will further strengthen this visibility offering and enable more advanced use of operational data across customer supply chains.
From Visibility to Predictive Insights
The next phase of development aims to move beyond tracking functionality towards more data-driven decision support tools for customers.
Bruce Marshall said: “For reefer customers, confidence that data is always available is crucial. That experience will improve markedly once our entire reefer fleet is fitted with the latest generation of connectivity devices. The upgrade will also provide the building blocks to introduce new features that will further strengthen the customer offering in the future. We want to pivot our current offering from being just a visibility product to being an intelligent tool that helps customers interpret data and provide recommended actions.”
Fleet-Wide Digital Upgrade Programme
To date, approximately 30 per cent of Maersk’s reefer fleet has been upgraded with the new IoT devices.
The new devices offer increased processing power compared to previous generations and support 4G and 5G connectivity, while remaining backwards compatible with 2G and 3G networks.
The devices are also designed to improve operational safety compliance and include IMO-compliant specifications. In addition, they are powered through energy-harvesting solar technology to support continuous connectivity across long-haul shipments.
This article was produced by the editorial team at EME Outlook and published as part of the Outlook Publishing global network of B2B industry magazines.
Outlook Publishing delivers industry insights, company stories, and sector coverage across manufacturing, mining, construction, healthcare, supply chains, food production, and sustainability.
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