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What Is Reefer Freight?
Reefer freight refers to shipments that require temperature control, transported in refrigerated trailers equipped with cooling units. These trailers maintain a set range, whether that means keeping produce cool, dairy stable, or frozen items at sub-zero conditions. Unlike dry van loads, reefer freight demands precise planning and careful handling at every stage.
Why Reefer Freight Matters
The U.S. food supply chain relies heavily on refrigerated trucking. From farm fields to grocery store shelves, reefer trailers ensure product integrity. If a shipment falls outside of its required temperature range, it can lead to rejected loads, wasted product, and reputational damage. Reefer freight is not just about transportation — it is about protecting value from field to fork.
Key Considerations Before Booking Reefer Freight
1. Know Your Product Requirements
Different commodities have different needs. Leafy greens, berries, and frozen meats each require unique temperature ranges and airflow settings. Communicating these details up front helps avoid missteps later.
2. Ask About Carrier Vetting
Not all carriers are equal when it comes to food safety. Look for a logistics partner who verifies carrier compliance, maintains strong safety records, and uses tools like Highway or similar platforms for onboarding.
3. Understand Reefer Capacity
During high-demand seasons, such as summer harvest or holidays, reefer capacity tightens quickly. Planning ahead and working with a trusted network ensures your freight gets covered at competitive rates.
4. Track and Monitor
Modern reefer freight relies on real-time tracking and temperature monitoring. Ask your provider what visibility you will have while the load is in transit and how exceptions are handled.
5. Partner With Specialists
A logistics provider that focuses on perishable shipping understands the unique pressures of the cold chain. From appointment scheduling to backup planning, the right partner can make reefer freight predictable and reliable.
The Fresh Freight Advantage
At Fresh Freight, we specialize in refrigerated trucking and perishable shipping. Our carrier network is carefully vetted, our technology provides visibility into every shipment, and our operations team works around the clock to support drivers and customers. The result is simple: fresh, on-time, and compliant deliveries.
Final Takeaway
Reefer freight is the backbone of the perishable supply chain, but it comes with challenges that require expertise and preparation. By knowing your product requirements, working with vetted carriers, and choosing a logistics partner who prioritizes visibility and reliability, you can ship with confidence.