GWF History
Legacy built on logistics

As the premier refrigerated goods carrier connecting Central America, U.S. and Europe, we don't just move cargo - we move businesses forward.

Custom Logistics Planning

We help you plan efficient routes tailored to your sourcing and delivery needs, across seasons, cargo types, and geographies.

End-to-End Coordination

From first mile to last mile, we work with your streamline loading, discharge, and delivery.

Real-Time Visibility

Track your containers from port to port with our integrated systems and responsive customer support.

Specialized Reefer Handling

Our reefer experts ensure fresh and frozen cargo is managed with precision and care.

Docked Vessel
Let’s build a logistics solution that's as reliable as your business.

Our History

1870
1870
The journey begins

It started with wind, hope, and perishable cargo. Captain Baker sailed from Jamaica with 160 bunches of green bananas on deck. Eleven days later he arrived at Jersey City and made history, proving fresh cargo could sail the seas.

Refrigerated Container
1880s to 1900
Refrigerated shipping by design

Railways, ports, and purpose-built ships turned perishable shipments into a year-round trade. Each route was engineered for freshness. By 1903, we had revolutionized ocean transport of perishables by pioneering using refrigerated vessels, redefining logistics and building one of the first vertically integrated refrigerated supply chains.

1907
1907
The fleet gets its name

The “Great White Fleet” was born when our vessels were painted white to reflect the tropical sun and preserve cargo quality. Long before sensors, our handling and white painted vessels protected perishables. The color became our identity. The “Great White Fleet” was born, an icon in reefer shipping.

Great White Fleet Flag
1910
Our flag, our legacy

The “Great White Fleet” was born when our vessels were painted white to reflect the tropical sun and preserve cargo quality. Long before sensors, our handling and white painted vessels protected perishables. The color became our identity. The “Great White Fleet” was born, an icon in reefer shipping.

1920
1920s to 1940s
Built for resilience

Through war, storms, and shifting markets, we delivered. Reefer after reefer moved, the fleet was engineered by resilience. Great White Fleet was built on dependability and earned its name by showing up when it mattered most.

1950
1950s to 1980s
Ahead of the curve

As global trade evolved, so did we. Great White Fleet adopted containerization early and redesigning vessels for quicker turnarounds and better temperature control.

Chiquita Vessel
1990s to 2000s
Fleet reinvented

The Great White Fleet rebranded with a sharper logistics focus through strategic global partnerships and route optimization. Our transformation was about service. We streamlined, proving agility is part of our DNA.

Vessel in canal
Until today
Great White Fleet standard

Behind every booking is a team that cares. With precision routing, temperature control, and personalized hands-on support. Our flag still flies in white, red, and blue, a symbol of care, consistency, and resilience.


In a world of shifting expectations, we remain what we’ve always been: “Your preferred partner in refrigerated shipping”

Years

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Driven by values. Powered by people.

Behind every shipment lies more than cargo - it's our promise of trust, enduring partnerships, and positive impact.

Integrity

We act with integrity by choosing what is right even when there is no one watching.

Respect

We are all leaders in our area of expertise with a commitment to delivering results.

Opportunity

We are all committed in ensuring that we are conducting business ethically with sustainable practices.

Responsability

We have the obligation to take initiative and act in the best interest of Chiquita by taking responsibility for our actions.

Wherever you need us.

Our offices are committed to support you - wherever your business takes you.

World Map
Belgium Flag

Belgium

Canada Flag

Canada

Costa Rica Flag

Costa Rica

El Salvador Flag

El Salvador

Germany Flag

Germany

Guatemala Flag

Guatemala

Honduras Flag

Honduras

Netherlands Flag

Netherlands

Nicaragua Flag

Nicaragua

Panama Flag

Panama

Sweden Flag

Sweden

United Kingdom Flag

United Kingdom

United States of America Flag

United States of America

Peru Flag

Peru

Mexico Flag

Mexico

Our people are our greatest strength.

We are proud to have a team of diverse, talented individuals with the experience and drive to serve your ocean and intermodal transportation needs.

With offices throughout North America, Latin America, and Europe, our team stands ready to handle all your freight needs. We strive to exceed your expectations.

Our global impact

Corporate Social Responsibility is integral to our global business strategy. We operate responsibly everywhere we do business, balancing the needs of all stakeholders impacted by our actions.

10+ years

of SA8000 certification
Since adopting this rigorous labor standard developed by Social Accountability International, helping us measure and improve our practices.
Chiquita Brands and its subsidiaries employ approximately

18,000 people

across nearly 70 countries
While social responsibility has been our cornerstone from the beginning, we've significantly expanded these efforts over

20+ years

Vessel in Canal

Environmental protection drives our operations.

This includes the decrease of greenhouse gas emissions, the management of waste and sludge responsibly, the prevention of environmental incidents and the protection of natural resources and biodiversity.
Read our environmental policy
Vessel in transport
Why our clients stay.

Reliability, flexibility, and being heard - you can count on us.

As a company with a background in produce, GWF truly understands the importance of our cargo—fresh fruit. We feel confident that our shipments are in expert hands.
Agropecuaria Montelíbano
For over 30 years, GWF has been our trusted partner, consistently providing us with exceptional and reliable maritime transport services. Their professionalism and dedication have been fundamental to our mutual success. We look forward to many more years of collaboration.
Transoceanic Express Service
GWF has been a consistent and reliable partner for Interra. We appreciate their service offerings and price competitiveness, but what truly sets them apart is their personalized service. The team takes the time to understand our business and provides solutions that help keep our supply chain running smoothly. Even when there are challenges or disputes, they are handled in a professional, service-oriented manner, which gives us confidence and peace of mind.
Interra International, LLC
Great White Fleet's approach to customer service proved instrumental in navigating COVID-19 crisis. Their deep understanding of our business, coupled with their expertise and experience, enabled a seamless and efficient solution. This exemplary partnership is just one testament to the enduring strength of our relationship
McCain
GWF’s consistently short transit times have been a significant advantage to our operations, ensuring that we can deliver fresh products reliably to our clients. Their dependable weekly services have given us the flexibility and predictability we need to align with our business objectives, especially in the highly demanding food sector. Over the years, GWF has proven to be not just a service provider, but a trusted partner who has contributed directly to our success through their reliability, responsiveness, and commitment to excellence.
Seagull Freight Services LLC
Great White Fleet offers solutions that are flexible and responsive to changing market conditions—something many global carriers struggle to deliver consistently. They’re more than a logistics provider—they operate as an extension of our team, helping us anticipate and overcome challenges in a fast-paced, global supply chain. We regularly recommend Great White Fleet to peers in the food logistics and cold chain sector due to their reliability, attention to detail, and commitment to customer service.
Helmsman Freight Solutions

We rely on Great White Fleet for our shipments to and from Central America. Their flexibility, proactive approach and short decision lines make them a trusted and valued partner. We appreciate the collaborative mindset of the team and their ability to think along with us at every step.

Their responsiveness to changing circumstances and proactive approach in offering solutions demonstrates a high level of flexibility and commitment. For Blue Water Shipping, it’s a pleasure working together.

Blue Water Shipping

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