With a strong network and multiple routes linking Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Central America, and the Caribbean to major hubs like the US and Asia, ZIM has emerged as a game-changer in the region.
The ZIM Albatross (ZAT), a year-round weekly service from Chile to China has become a cornerstone of this network, offering direct calls in Da Chan Bay and Tianjin, along with additional links to the Far East, Southeast Asia, and India.
To further support the increased demand during the cherry season, the ZAT service is complemented by the addition of the ZIM Cherry Express. Introduced last year, this seasonal dedicated service is specifically designed to meet the increased demand for Chilean cherries, reaching both North and South China markets, and providing a unique solution for developing these markets during the peak cherry season.
Cherry Export Season 2024: What’s New?
Chile’s cherry harvest has officially begun, with an impressive 90% of exports heading to China. Demand for these vibrant red gems continues to surge. Last season, Chile exported 377,000 tons of cherries, and this year, we’re expecting a 15% increase, meaning even larger volumes to manage within a tight timeframe.
To meet this growing demand, the ZIM Cherry Express is back – and stronger than ever. Departing from San Antonio, this cherry-dedicated service heads to two key destinations in China, ensuring the cherries arrive fresh, flavorful, and perfectly timed for the Chinese New Year:
San Antonio > Tianjin in 23 days
4 direct calls to Tianjin, opening a convenient gateway to Beijing, delivering fresher fruit faster to North China.
San Antonio > Da Chan Bay in 23 days
A one-time exclusive call to Da Chan Bay, providing a closer link to the Pearl River Delta region and South China.
Did you know?
Chilean cherries are known for their deep red color, large size, and exceptional flavor, which have made them a global favorite. Their sugar content also evolves as the season progresses. Early-season cherries are more delicate and require extra care, while mid and late-season varieties strike the p…
Chilean cherries are known for their deep red color, large size, and exceptional flavor, which have made them a global favorite. Their sugar content a…
Cold Treatment: Tackling the Mediterranean Fruit Fly
Chile has built a reputation for exceptional fruit quality control, but this year brings a twist. The O’Higgins region, part of Chile’s Central Area, is currently facing the Mediterranean fruit fly pest. To comply with China’s import requirements, cherries bound for this market must undergo Cold Treatment (CT) to eliminate any potential pests.
Cold Treatment (CT) technology is used to maintain specific low temperature during transit. For cherries heading for China, they must stay at or below 0.5°C for 15 consecutive days.
Once the Cold Treatment process is complete, ZIM will provide the DCX files which will be made available for remote download. This allows our local service team to share all the necessary documentation with relevant local authorities, ensuring transparency and quality compliance. By the time the container is unloaded, everything is already in place – saving valuable time and streamlining the process.
And the Cherry on Top?
Real-Time Monitoring with ZIMonitor
This state-of-the-art device is placed inside the container to provide real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, GPS location, route deviations and even alerts in case of unauthorized door openings.
This state-of-the-art device is placed inside the container to provide real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, GPS location, route deviations a…
Youngest Reefer Fleet
ZIM leads the industry with the youngest refrigerated fleet, averaging just 4.6 years. With additional plug allocations and cutting-edge technology, our vessels are fully equipped to meet the diverse demands of this cherry season.
ZIM leads the industry with the youngest refrigerated fleet, averaging just 4.6 years. With additional plug allocations and cutting-edge technology, o…
24/7 Global Service Teams
Our global service centers operate around the clock, monitoring everything from real-time alerts on the vessel or at the terminal, to immediate action when necessary to keep your cargo safe.
Our global service centers operate around the clock, monitoring everything from real-time alerts on the vessel or at the terminal, to immediate action…
Stay Connected with myZIM
Want to keep track of your shipment? Access your myZIM Personal Area for real-time updates on location, temperature and humidity. You’ll also have full access to view and download your cargo’s data anytime.
Want to keep track of your shipment? Access your myZIM Personal Area for real-time updates on location, temperature and humidity. You’ll also have ful…
Planning your next shipment?
From fresh and frozen to sensitive and high-value cargo, our reefer experts ensure it arrives in perfect condition.
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