Reefer Shipping 101: Temperature-Controlled Freight

Temperature-controlled shipping—commonly called "reefer" shipping—is essential for transporting perishable goods like food, pharmaceuticals, and certain chemicals. Understanding the nuances of cold chain logistics can help you protect your products and avoid costly claims.

What is Reefer Shipping?

Reefer trailers are refrigerated trucks equipped with cooling units that maintain specific temperature ranges during transit. They can typically hold temperatures from -20°F to +70°F, depending on the unit.

Types of Temperature-Controlled Equipment

Standard Reefer Trailer

53' trailer with refrigeration unit

Most common for food products

Can maintain frozen or refrigerated temps

Multi-Temperature Trailers

Multiple compartments at different temps

Ideal for mixed loads

Common in grocery distribution

Insulated Trailers (Non-Reefer)

No active refrigeration

Uses insulation to maintain temps

Good for short hauls of pre-cooled freight

Best Practices for Reefer Shipping

1. Pre-Cool Your Products

Never rely on the reefer unit to bring products to temperature. Products should be at the target temperature before loading.

2. Specify Continuous vs. Cycle Temperature

Continuous: Refrigeration runs constantly

Cycle (Start-Stop): Unit cycles on/off to maintain range

Frozen goods typically require continuous; refrigerated may use cycle.

3. Proper Loading Techniques

Don't block air flow

Use proper palletization

Consider load bars for stability

Pre-cool trailer before loading

4. Monitor Temperature

Request temperature monitoring data from your carrier. Many modern reefer units have telematics that record temp throughout transit.

5. Document Everything

Take photos of thermometer readings at pickup. This protects you in case of claims.

Common Reefer Commodities

- Fresh produce (32°F - 40°F)

Frozen foods (-10°F to 0°F)

Dairy products (32°F - 40°F)

Pharmaceuticals (varies widely)

Flowers (32°F - 35°F)

Chocolate (55°F - 65°F)

Chainlink Reefer Services

Our network includes experienced reefer carriers with modern equipment and temperature monitoring capabilities. Whether you're shipping frozen goods across the country or fresh produce to the next state, we have you covered.

Get a reefer quote today.