HMM has been identified as the leading global shipping company transporting the most orange imports from California to South Korea.
According to the PIERS data from the Journal of Commerce, Western Canada’s most trusted industry resource, HMM has transported a total of 2982 TEU (1 TEU equals one 20-foot container) of California oranges to South Korea this year, securing a market share of 33% and ranking first in the market.
HMM has maintained its leading position in volume and market share for two consecutive years, following last year’s figures (2380 TEU·25%). Most oranges imported into South Korea are from California and transported annually from January to April.
Oranges are a representative high-value cargo that can be transported in refrigerated containers, also called reefer containers. High-tech capabilities are required to maintain freshness during the long-haul transportation process.
HMM boasts top-tier transport capabilities, including operating ultra-freezer containers, which only a few shipping companies worldwide offer. Ultra-freezers are specialized containers that maintain temperatures as low as -60 degrees Celsius (-76 degrees Fahrenheit).
Also, some reefer containers are equipped with Internet of Things (IoT) devices to provide real-time monitoring services for cargo location, temperature, humidity, and oxygen and carbon dioxide concentrations. This service has been available since June in ten regions across seven countries, including South Korea and the U.S.
An official from HMM stated that as refrigeration technology improves, the market for imported fruits and other perishable products is expected to grow. The official further mentioned that the company plans to actively pursue the acquisition of high-value cargo using reefer containers to expand its market share.
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