Refrigerated LTL vs Reefer Truckload
Choosing the right temperature-controlled shipping mode for your perishable freight
Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Reefer LTL | Reefer TL |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Up to 10,000 lbs | 30,000 - 44,000 lbs |
| Pallet Count | 1-6 pallets typical | 22-24 pallets (full trailer) |
| Transit Time | 3-7 days (terminal stops) | 1-4 days (direct) |
| Handling | Multiple terminals, cross-docking | Single touch, no transfers |
| Temperature Control | Shared trailer zones | Dedicated to your temp setting |
| Spoilage Risk | Higher (more handling) | Lower (direct, controlled) |
Refrigerated LTL combines your temperature-controlled freight with other cold shipments on a shared reefer trailer. You pay only for the space you use, making it cost-effective for smaller perishable shipments.
Pros
- Cost-effective for 1-6 pallets
- Pay only for space used
- Good for regular small shipments
- Multiple temperature zones available
- Accessorials available (liftgate, residential)
Cons
- Multiple handling points at terminals
- Longer transit times (3-7 days)
- Higher damage/spoilage risk from handling
- Limited carrier availability
- Requires robust packaging for temp maintenance
Specifications
- Weight Limit:
- Up to 10,000 lbs
- Space Limit:
- Up to 10-12 linear feet
- Transit Time:
- 3-7 business days
- Handling:
- 2-4 terminal transfers
- Temperature Range:
- -20°F to 70°F
A dedicated refrigerated trailer carries only your freight from origin to destination. The entire trailer maintains your exact temperature requirements with no handling between pickup and delivery.
Pros
- Fastest transit times (1-4 days)
- No terminal handling
- Lowest spoilage risk
- Precise temperature control
- Direct dock-to-dock service
Cons
- Higher cost for small shipments
- Must fill or pay for full trailer
- Less scheduling flexibility
- Capacity varies by market/season
- Premium rates during peak produce season
Specifications
- Weight Range:
- 30,000 - 44,000 lbs
- Space:
- Full trailer (22-24 pallets)
- Transit Time:
- 1-4 business days
- Handling:
- 1 touch (direct)
- Temperature Range:
- -20°F to 70°F
When to Choose Each Option
- Shipping 1-6 pallets of perishables
- Freight under 10,000 lbs
- Budget is primary concern
- Regular recurring small shipments
- Products can handle 3-7 day transit
- Robust packaging maintains temperature
- Shipping 10+ pallets
- Time-sensitive perishables (short shelf life)
- High-value products (seafood, pharmaceuticals)
- Need precise temperature (vaccines, biologics)
- Want to minimize handling risk
- Freight exceeds 10,000 lbs
Cost Comparison
Refrigerated LTL is best for 1-6 pallets; truckload becomes more economical at 8-10+ pallets or when LTL quotes exceed $1,500-2,000.
Refrigerated LTL costs 20-40% more than dry LTL due to specialized equipment. A single pallet might cost $300-500 via reefer LTL vs $2,500-4,000 for a full reefer truck. The breakpoint is typically 8-10 pallets or when transit time is critical. For 6-10 pallets, also consider partial truckload reefer which offers faster transit than LTL at lower cost than full truckload.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not Sure Which is Right for You?
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