Refrigerated Freight: Complete Shipper Guide

Refrigerated freight — also called reefer — is one of the most specialized and unforgiving segments of trucking. A temperature excursion can destroy an entire load. Here's what every shipper needs to know before booking a reefer truck.

What Is a Reefer Truck?

A refrigerated trailer (reefer) is a standard 48- or 53-foot trailer fitted with a diesel-powered refrigeration unit (usually a Thermo King or Carrier brand). The unit runs independently of the truck engine, maintaining precise temperature throughout the haul — whether the truck is moving or parked.

Modern reefer units can maintain temperatures from -20°F to +70°F, covering everything from frozen goods to fresh produce to temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals.

Common Temperature Ranges by Commodity

Commodity	Temperature Range	Notes
Fresh Produce	34°F – 40°F	Varies by commodity
Dairy Products	34°F – 38°F	Strict temp control
Frozen Food	0°F – 10°F	No temp breaks
Ice Cream	-10°F – 0°F	Hardest to maintain
Pharmaceuticals	36°F – 46°F (2°–8°C)	Regulatory compliance
Flowers/Plants	34°F – 50°F	Ethylene-sensitive

Key Documents for Reefer Loads

Bill of Lading (BOL) — must specify set temperature, product name, and any pre-cooling requirements
Temperature Recorder Download — the reefer unit logs temperature continuously; always request this at delivery
Pre-Trip Inspection Record — confirms the unit was functioning before loading
Proof of Delivery (POD) — signed receipt confirming condition at delivery

5 Common Reefer Shipping Mistakes

Not pre-cooling the trailer — a warm trailer will spike product temp even if the reefer is running. Request pre-cool to set temp 2+ hours before loading.
Blocking air circulation — freight must be loaded to allow airflow from the floor channels. Blocking the nose of the trailer is a common mistake.
Wrong set point — confirm the exact temperature on the BOL. "Keep cold" is not a set point.
Not requesting the temp download — if there's a claim, this is your only proof of what happened in transit.
Using a dry van broker for reefer loads — reefer requires carriers with maintained refrigeration units and experience in cold chain. Not every carrier qualifies.

How IZY Logistics Handles Reefer Freight

Every reefer load we book includes temperature monitoring via the carrier's onboard recorder, pre-trip inspection confirmation, and a temperature log delivered with the POD. Our carriers are screened specifically for cold chain experience and equipment maintenance records. If you've had temperature excursion issues with other brokers, call us — we take reefer seriously.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes refrigerated shipping different from standard freight?

Refrigerated shipping typically requires specific equipment, handling, or compliance steps that standard dry van freight doesn't need.

Does IZY Logistics handle refrigerated shipments?

Yes. IZY Logistics brokers refrigerated freight nationwide and can match the shipment with a carrier experienced in this freight type.

How do I get a quote for refrigerated freight?

Request a quote with your shipment details — origin, destination, weight, and any special handling requirements — and IZY Logistics will match it to the right equipment and carrier.

What should I check before booking a refrigerated shipment?

Confirm the carrier has the right equipment and experience for refrigerated freight specifically, along with proper insurance coverage for the commodity.