Ratio Method
The default method uses practical ice-to-fish ratios by temperature band and transport duration, then adjusts them for insulation and ice type.
Fish Ice Calculator (Required Ice for Catch Cooling and Transport)
Estimate the ice needed for catch cooling and transport from fish weight, temperature, and transport time.
This is a field estimate. Follow local food-safety and temperature-control requirements.
Fast estimate from fish amount, temperature, and hours
Visible calculation basis with ratio and correction factors
Shareable URL and CSV for field reuse
How to Use
- Enter the fish amount, field temperature, and transport time.
- Keep the ratio method as the default unless you need the experimental target-temperature view.
- Match insulation and ice type to your real handling condition.
- Review the recommended ice, the basis table, and the warnings before sharing or exporting.
How the Calculator Works
Reach Target Temperature (Experimental)
This simplified view estimates the initial cooling ice needed to reach the target temperature, but it never goes below the practical holding ratio.
Ice-to-Fish Ratio Guide
| Temperature band | 0-6h | 6-12h | 12-24h | 24h+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| <10C | 0.5 | 0.6 | 0.8 | 1.0 |
| 10-25C | 0.8 | 1.0 | 1.2 | 1.5 |
| >25C | 1.2 | 1.5 | 2.0 | 3.0 |
Example Cases
Hot day to market
Input
Fish 120 kg Temperature 28C Transport 8h Ratio auto Insulation normal Ice crushed Safe-side ON
Result
Base ratio 1.5 Recommended ice 180.0 kg Safe-side 216.0 kg
Cool short haul
Input
Fish 80 kg Temperature band <10C Transport 3h Ratio auto Insulation normal Ice block Safe-side OFF
Result
Base ratio 0.5 Final ratio 0.55 Recommended ice 44.0 kg
Experimental target cooling
Input
Fish 120 kg Temperature 28C Transport 8h Method target Initial 28C Target 1C
Result
Initial cooling ice 34.0 kg Holding floor 180.0 kg Adopted base ratio 1.5
FAQ
Is this an exact thermal calculation?
No. This is a field estimate. The default ratio method is intentionally simple and shows the chosen ratio and correction factors so the result is easier to trust and reuse.
Can I use this for slurry ice?
Yes. Choose slurry ice in the ice-type field. The tool applies a smaller correction because close contact usually improves cooling efficiency.
What if I do not have enough ice?
Increase insulation, reduce gaps in the box, avoid direct sun, and try to keep some ice remaining at arrival. When in doubt, use the safe-side amount.
Which is better: block ice or crushed ice?
Crushed ice usually cools faster because it contacts the fish more closely. Block ice keeps longer in storage, but it should usually be crushed before use.
Important Notes
- This tool is a reference estimate. Follow local regulations and buyer requirements for food safety, hygiene, and temperature control.
- Species, fish size, packing density, direct sun, door opening frequency, and drainage can all change the required ice.
- In hot or long-haul conditions, aim to arrive with at least some ice still remaining.
- If you are unsure, keep the safe-side amount turned on.