Reefer Trucking Explained: How Temperature-Controlled Freight Works
- MC 1425624 · USDOT 3883624
- Canada and USA lanes
- Hot load and emergency service
- Cambridge, Ontario
Reefer trucking is the transportation of temperature-sensitive freight in refrigerated trailers. If you are new to it, this guide explains how reefer trucking works, what freight needs it and how to prepare a load properly.
What is a reefer?
A reefer is a refrigerated trailer with a cooling unit mounted on the front that holds the cargo area at a chosen temperature. The unit can cool or, in cold weather, heat so freight does not freeze. The driver or dispatcher sets the temperature (setpoint) according to the product requirements.
What freight ships in a reefer?
- Fresh and frozen food and beverages.
- Dairy, meat, produce and bakery products.
- Pharmaceutical and healthcare products where temperature control is required.
- Floral, plants and some chemicals or specialty goods.
Always tell your carrier the exact temperature range and handling instructions.
How a temperature-controlled load works
- Set the temperature: the shipper specifies the required setpoint and range.
- Pre-cool the trailer: the trailer is brought to temperature before loading.
- Load at the right temperature: product should be at the proper temperature when loaded.
- Monitor in transit: the reefer unit and temperature are checked throughout the trip.
- Deliver and document: temperature records can be provided to the receiver on request.
Continuous vs cycle mode
Reefer units can run continuously for steady airflow, which suits fresh produce, or cycle on and off to save fuel for frozen or less sensitive products. The correct mode depends on the commodity.
Food safety paperwork
For food moving in the United States, the FDA's sanitary transportation requirements apply, and imported food may need FDA Prior Notice. Your carrier and customs broker should confirm what applies to your product.
Key takeaway: Tell your carrier the exact temperature range, whether the product is pre-cooled and any special handling. That information drives equipment, mode and paperwork.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature does a reefer hold?
Reefers can be set across a wide range, from frozen to just above freezing and ambient, depending on the product requirements.
Can a reefer carry frozen and fresh products together?
Not usually at the same time, because they need different temperatures. Multi-temperature loads need special equipment or planning.
Do you provide reefer service across the border?
Yes, with the right customs and food-safety paperwork prepared in advance.
A Cambridge, Ontario carrier hauling dry van, reefer, open flatbed and Flatbed Conestoga freight between Canada and the USA. Carrier authority: MC 1425624, USDOT 3883624.
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