Shipping Salmon from Alaska to Kinshasa

A comprehensive logistics plan for transporting refrigerated salmon across continents

Project Overview

Cargo Specifications

  • Cargo: Frozen Salmon
  • Container: 40-foot High Cube Refrigerated Container
  • Temperature: -20°C to -30°C (Deep freeze)
  • Origin: Port of Anchorage, Alaska, USA
  • Destination: Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo

Key Challenges

Temperature Control

Maintaining strict temperature control throughout the entire journey to preserve salmon quality.

Complex Routing

Managing multiple transportation modes across continents, including ocean freight and inland transportation.

Customs Compliance

Navigating import/export regulations in both the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Shipping Route

Route Segments

Mode: Ocean Freight

Distance: ~1,500 nautical miles

Duration: 3-4 days

Carrier: Matson or TOTE Maritime

Mode: Ocean Freight

Route: Via Panama Canal

Duration: 40-45 days

Carrier: Maersk, MSC, or CMA CGM

Mode: Rail Transport

Distance: 365 km

Duration: 2-3 days

Carrier: SCTP (Société Commerciale des Transports et des Ports)

Timeline Visualization

Key Milestones

Day Milestone Description
1 Begin Documentation Start preparation of all required documentation
7 Container Loaded Container loaded and sealed in Anchorage
12 Arrive in Seattle Container arrives at Port of Seattle
17 Depart Seattle Container departs on international vessel
58 Arrive in Matadi Container arrives at Port of Matadi
65 Customs Clearance DRC customs clearance completed
70 Final Delivery Delivery to final destination in Kinshasa

Cost Breakdown

Total Estimated Cost

$36,300 - $55,500

Depending on market conditions and specific requirements


Cost Categories
  • Container and Cargo Costs $7,700 - $11,300
  • Transportation Costs $13,000 - $18,800
  • Port and Handling Fees $4,500 - $7,200
  • Customs and Regulatory Costs $6,100 - $10,200
  • Additional Services $5,000 - $8,000

Required Documentation

US Export Documentation

  • US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Form 3-177
  • Health Certificate from US Department of Commerce
  • Certificate of Origin
  • Commercial Invoice and Packing List
  • Export Declaration (EEI filing)

DRC Import Documentation

  • BIVAC Pre-shipment Inspection Certificate
  • Import License
  • FERI (Fiche Electronique de Renseignements à l'Importation)
  • Certificate of Destination
  • Customs Declaration