Israel's ZIM Integrated Shipping Services has expanded its refrigerated container fleet to cope with the demand generated from its ZIMonitor service under which customers can monitor their cargo status.

ZIMonitor, launched in early 2015, allows customers to track, monitor and remotely control sensitive, high-value cargo stowed in refrigerated, or reefer, containers.

"Customers can opt to receive alerts regarding their shipment via text message or email, closely monitor their cargo's status and intervene to prevent damages through ZIM's 24/7 dedicated global response team," the company said.

The company plans to order 1,900 40-Feet High-Cube refrigerated containers during 2016. The new advanced and environmentally friendly containers were specifically designed to accommodate the ZIMonitor service and received a special prefix: ZMOU.

ZIM partnered with Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, a leading global pharmaceutical company, on a pilot of the ZIMonitor service. "Upon the successful completion of the pilot, the ZIMonitor service quickly gained popularity among ZIM's customer base," the company added.

Zim's vice-president of Global Sales, Nissim Yochai, stated: "We are very pleased with the growing demand for our monitored services. The ZIMonitor system was designed by ZIM for the cold supply chains and employs state-of-the-art technology. The service provides a tailored solution for customers who ship pharmaceuticals, perishable food and other high-value and sensitive cargo."