COSCO SHIPPING builds smart, integrated global ecosystem

COSCO is integrating cutting-edge technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) to drive the high-quality development of industrial and supply chains.

The firm’s IoT technology was initially deployed in reefer containers, which demand precise temperature and time management.

By incorporating the Smart Solution IBOX REEFER, traditional reefer containers are now equipped with smart features, including remote real-time temperature control, location and door status monitoring, and bidirectional communication, enhancing the safety and oversight of reefer cargo.

To prolong the shelf-life of highly sensitive goods such as specific fruits, vegetables, flowers, and mushrooms, COSCO also offers gas-conditioned containers and cold-treatment services with standardized procedures.

Currently, over 100,000 of COSCO reefers are equipped with the third generation of IoT technology.

“We also offer dry containers that cater to the transportation of special or hazardous goods. With IBOX DRY, we maintain a constant internal temperature of 15-25 degrees Celsius, while remotely monitoring cargo conditions and receiving alerts in case of any irregularities, thereby enhancing safety at sea,” said the company.

To ensure uninterrupted communication and monitoring while ships navigate open waters, COSCO has developed the IBOX-VESSEL intelligent monitoring solution.

This system enables real-time data transfer from the container to the deck office and the IBOX cloud platform, allowing carriers and cargo owners to monitor the status of reefer containers via the IBOX application platform.

To maintain seamless communication from ship to shore, COSCO employs air-sky integrated networks, geofencing, and IoT technology, which not only facilitate resource planning and management of container logistics but also support the optimization of shipping routes.

The current 3.0 version of the platform, accessible through COSCO website, provides customers with comprehensive control over their entire supply chain. It includes key cold chain information and tracking capabilities, even for large-scale projects such as multi-vessel voyages.

The MY REEFER platform integrates customized AI algorithms to embed precise tracking within the supply chain, identify potential risks in advance, and improve operational efficiency. This helps customers optimize their inventory and adjust their distribution and sales plans more flexibly.

For customs clearance, MY REEFER facilitates direct connection with Shanghai Customs, enabling paperless customs declarations and inspections of cold processing data, significantly enhancing the efficiency of fresh fruit importers.

Furthermore, MY REEFER utilizes a new generation of algorithms to establish an equipment life cycle model, ensuring that containers remain in optimal working condition. This contributes to a reduction in carbon emissions throughout the year, equivalent to the amount absorbed by 454 hectares of forest annually.

Sources: Container News