TOTE Maritime Selects ORBCOMM’s VesselConnect Solution for Remote Monitoring of Smart Refrigerated Containers at Sea

 

TOTE Maritime is using ORBCOMM’s telematics solution to monitor and control its refrigerated container fleet transporting temperature-sensitive, high-value goods such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, food and candy on land. The addition of VesselConnect extends connectivity to the water, providing TOTE Maritime with seamless visibility and control of its assets along the cold chain from point of origin to destination.

ORBCOMM’s VesselConnect allows TOTE Maritime to receive critical data from its containers, including reefer status, temperature and slot location, while on the vessel or on shore through any Internet-connected device. TOTE Maritime can adjust reefer set points and conduct pre-trip inspections on-board, reducing manual labor and expediting cargo distribution on land. In addition, the Vessel Connect system provides TOTE Maritime with the precise temperature monitoring capabilities and records needed for compliance with the FDA’s Food Safety Modernization Act regulatory requirements.

A key benefit of VesselConnect is enhanced crew efficiency and safety by eliminating the need to manually check the temperature status and condition of reefer containers. If an alarm occurs, it will be automatically displayed on the VesselConnect console, and an engineer can be promptly sent to check and resolve any issues. The system also identifies non-performing equipment, so shore-based staff can be alerted in advance that repairs are needed, thereby reducing time out of service as well as insurance claims.

“As shipping lines move to the increased use of GPS and GSM-enabled containers, they need to fill the traceability gap on vessels at sea, and ORBCOMM’s VesselConnect solution provides end-to-end visibility of refrigerated container operations,” said Marc Eisenberg, ORBCOMM’s Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to helping TOTE Maritime realize the bottom-line benefits of its investment in ORBCOMM’s advanced telematics system, including reduced cargo damage, lower operating costs, better regulatory compliance, and most importantly, enhanced customer service.”

“By deploying ORBCOMM’s VesselConnect solution, we have access to comprehensive, real-time information about our refrigerated sea containers that enables us to not only maximize the safety and efficiency of our supply chain operations, but also better serve our customers,” said Jim Wagstaff, VP of Operations, TOTE Maritime Puerto Rico. “We are proud to be the first inline shipping company in North America to adopt this cutting-edge technology, which demonstrates our leadership, flexibility and commitment to continue improving our service levels and meeting the industry’s evolving requirements.”