The Netherlands has observed a substantial increase in the import of temperature-controlled goods transported in sea containers. Over a ten-year period, these imports grew by nearly 25%, from 8.9 million tons in 2015 to 11.1 million tons in 2025. The primary driver for this expansion was a significant surge in the arrival of fruits and vegetables.
This trend highlights a growing consumer demand for fresh produce in the Dutch market, which in turn impacts the logistics sector. For freight forwarders and operations managers, this sustained growth in reefer cargo signifies a consistent need for specialized container equipment and cold chain logistics services. It also suggests potential for increased volumes on specific trade lanes, particularly those originating from fruit and vegetable producing regions. Forwarders should anticipate continued demand for reefer capacity and be prepared to manage the complexities associated with temperature-sensitive shipments, including customs procedures for perishable goods.