Orbcomm, Vobal Technologies to Manage Refrigerated Containers at Sea

Container cranes at port. Photo: Wikimedia.

Orbcomm announced it has partnered with Vobal Technologies to enable end-to-end visibility of refrigerated smart containers and other Internet of Things (IoT)-connected assets transporting temperature-sensitive, high-value cargo across international waters.

Based in Evanston, Illinois, Vobal Technologies has developed and deployed its CargoGSM network over the past five years, thereby extending IoT connectivity to sea. Orbcomm is deploying Vobal’s maritime Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) technology as part of its new VesselConnect solution, which allows shipping lines to monitor and control smart containers and their cargo on-board their ships. According to Orbcomm, early adopters of the VesselConnect solution include Tote Maritime Puerto Rico, a premier shipping carrier specializing in moving cargo between the United States mainland and Puerto Rico.

VesselConnect allows carriers to receive critical data from smart containers loaded on their ships above and below deck, including reefer status, temperature and slot location, as well as to adjust reefer container set points and conduct pre-trip inspections on-board, reducing manual labor and expediting cargo distribution on land. According to Orbcomm, the solution enhances crew efficiency and safety by eliminating the need to manually check reefer and other containers carrying perishable cargo. Status reports and alarms are automatically displayed on the VesselConnect console on-board and can also be viewed by shore-based personnel on Orbcomm’s Cloud platform for immediate action.