How do you monitor temperatures during transit?

We use real-time temperature monitoring systems that provide continuous data on cargo temperatures. Alerts provide notification of any deviations, ensuring your temperature-sensitive freight remains within required parameters throughout transit.

Can you handle multi-temperature loads?

Yes. A refrigerated trailer can be split with bulkhead walls into multiple temperature zones, so one trailer carries mixed loads with different temperature requirements.

Reefer Trucking Services | Freight Sidekick

Reefer Transportation Services

Temperature-controlled transportation for perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and other sensitive freight. Reefer trailers from carriers in our network hold set temperatures from -20°F to 70°F to protect your cargo throughout transit.

Key Benefits

Temperature ranges from -20°F to 70°F
Real-time temperature monitoring
Multi-zone temperature control
Advanced air circulation systems
Insulated trailer walls for maximum efficiency

When refrigerated (reefer) is the right choice

Reefer trailers run from -20°F to 70°F and ship under the FSMA Sanitary Transportation Rule. They're right when your cargo's temperature can't drift — and wrong when it doesn't need cooling at all.

Pick refrigerated when

•Frozen (sub-zero), fresh (33-39°F), or controlled-ambient cargo
•Produce, dairy, meat, frozen meals, pharma, vaccines, or floral
•Pre-cool protocol and continuous temperature monitoring required
•FSMA Sanitary Transportation Rule compliance applies (most human/animal food)

Consider an alternative when

→Non-perishable / shelf-stable cargo — dry van (cheaper and faster to book)
→Cargo doesn't fit in an enclosed trailer — flatbed
→Less than truckload quantity — LTL or partial truckload (reefer LTL is limited)
→Oversize cold-chain (rare) — specialized

Reefer Specifications

Technical details and capabilities to help you plan your shipment

Trailer Specifications

Dimensions:53' Length × 8.5' Width × 13.5' Height

Max Load:44,000-45,000 lbs

Capacity:3,000-3,500 cubic feet

Features:Temperature control, Air chute systems, Insulated walls

Common Equipment

Temperature recording devices
Air chute systems
Bulkhead walls for multi-temp zones
Pallet wrapping materials
Insulated blankets for additional protection

Common Freight Types

Ideal cargo types for Reefer transportation

Frozen Foods

Ice cream, frozen meals, and other frozen food products requiring sub-zero temperatures.

Fresh Produce

Fruits, vegetables, and other perishable agricultural products.

Pharmaceuticals

Temperature-sensitive medications, vaccines, and medical supplies.

Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy items requiring refrigeration.

Industries We Serve

Specialized Reefer solutions for diverse industry needs

Food & Beverage

Dairy producers
Meat processors
Frozen food manufacturers
Produce distributors

Pharmaceuticals

Medication manufacturers
Vaccine distributors
Medical supply companies
Research facilities

Floral

Flower wholesalers
Garden centers
Florists
Plant nurseries

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Reefer shipping

Shipping Less Than a Full Truckload?

For 1-6 pallets of temperature-controlled freight, refrigerated LTL may be more cost-effective than a full reefer truck.

Refrigerated LTL Rates →LTL vs Truckload Comparison →

From -20°F to 70°F, which covers frozen goods, fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive freight.

Find Refrigerated Trucking in Your State

Explore state-specific refrigerated trucking services, commodities, and information.

Ready to Ship with Reefer?

Quote it online in minutes, or call and Allison, our AI freight agent, prices it at any hour.

Reefer dimensions & how it compares — full trailer guide →

What reefer freight costs per mile — refrigerated rates guide →

Get a Quote Today Call (877) 345-3838

Reefer Trucking Services