Logistics provider Kazakhstan Temir Zholy Express and supply chain visibility specialist Globe Tracker International have signed a deal for the deployment of smart reefer containers on the New Silk Road between China and Germany.

“The technology deployed for KTZE’s solution is very robust, state of the art, with two-way communication to the reefer controller and multiple wireless sensors all customized to their specifications,” said Jakup Lamhauge, CEO of Globe Tracker. “The system is built to handle the harsh winter environments in Kazakhstan and Russia where temperatures often fall below -40 degrees centigrade.”

The reefers are 45-foot containers manufactured by Dutch company UNIT45, and will be transported by rail from Chongqing to Duisburg.

“We have worked hard with Globe Tracker and UNIT45 to develop this unique system for our valued customers and we couldn’t be happier with the results,” said Daulet Kakim, director of the container transport department at KTZE.

Transit time along the route is approximately 13 days from China to Europe, according to the two companies.