Reefer (Refrigerated Trailer)

A temperature-controlled trailer used to haul perishable freight like food, flowers, and pharmaceuticals.

Reefer trailers maintain set-point temperatures from -20°F to 70°F using a diesel-powered refrigeration unit. Reefer rates run 15%–25% higher than dry van due to fuel burn, equipment cost, and product liability. Pre-cooling and continuous-temp recording are standard requirements.

Example

A reefer load of frozen seafood from Seattle to Chicago at -10°F runs $4,200 vs $3,200 for an equivalent dry van.