REEFER & HEATERS Reefer Trailer uses the abbreviation "refrigerated" to refer to cargo that must be kept at room temperature during transport. Full or partial trailer loads are available for reefer loads, as well as less than truckload (LTL), lots. Most often, food products, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing chemicals are shipped in temperature controlled environments. There are three types of temperature controlled freight available: refrigerated (frozen), maintained (heated) and frigerated (refrigerated).

THE PROS AND CONS OF REEFER SHIPPING

There are many factors that will determine if reefer freight shipping is right for you. These pros and cons will help you decide if reefer freight trucking is right for you, whether your are a new driver or an experienced owner-operator who wants to expand your business.

PROS: MANY WORK

The demand for reefer freight is higher than the other modes of transport and it bounces back faster from economic setbacks. Because the U.S.'s demand for food, drink and medicine is never in decline, no matter how severe the crisis may be, it will continue to rise. Transport Topics News reported in January 2021 that the fastest-recovering cargo type from the economic effects of the pandemic was the reefer. The need for temperature-controlled supplies rolls on through the holidays and is unaffected by the seasons. Consistent loads are a benefit to reefer drivers week in, week-out, and throughout the year.

CARGO MORE EXPENSIVE

Dry van freight is more expensive than reefer loads. This type of transport often requires temperature control. Food and beverage companies usually ship their goods in refrigerated trailers that are kept at 32-36degF. This is similar to your refrigerator at home. Frozen trucks are capable of operating at temperatures as low as -10°F. Some pharmaceutical and chemical products need to be transported at even lower temperatures. For example, the COVID-19 vaccine by Pfizer-BioNtech requires shipment at -80°C to 60°C (-112°F to -76°F). Reefer trailers can also be used as heaters in colder climates to keep cargo warmer during transit. This prevents the freezing of certain foods, alcohol, chemicals, or sensitive electronics from suffering any temperature damage. Because the loads are sensitive and require special equipment to maintain the correct temperature, reefer transport can be more difficult to operate. Freight that requires refrigeration is often more expensive than dry freight. This has an impact on the cargo rates shippers will pay.

CONS

It is a complex job that can make hauling reefer loads even more lucrative. You should be aware of the possible downsides before you set out on the road with a Reefer. Long wait times and pre-cooling requirements Picking up temperature-controlled freight takes longer for a variety of reasons. Before the dock manager arrives at your pickup, it is important that your trailer is at the correct temperature to allow them to load their cargo. They will also take temperature. You'll have to wait if your yard is not far from the pick-up point and you didn't pre-cool it. Groceries ship in smaller skids and crates, which can make it take longer to load. It will take longer to load if it is dangerous (chemicals, eggs or cases of beer)