Understanding Refrigerated Truckloads: What is a Reefer Trailer?

A refrigerated truckload, or reefer truckload, uses a temperature-controlled trailer known as a reefer trailer. This trailer is essential for transporting goods that require precise temperature management, such as perishable foods, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive products.

Refrigerated Trailer Dimensions

A reefer trailer usually measures 48 or 53 feet in length, with the same width and height as a standard trailer. The temperature inside can be adjusted between -20 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit to suit the specific needs of the cargo being transported.

Temp Control Truckload Market Types

Reefer trucks are available in two types: spot truckload, where freight brokers bid on available loads in the spot market.  And alternatively, contract reefer truckload, which involves a long-term shipping agreement between a shipper and carrier for guaranteed capacity.

Temperature Control Delivery

Partnering with Translogistics (TLI), established in 1994, gives shippers access to expert carrier selection and competitive pricing strategies. With decades of experience and deep industry knowledge, TLI carefully vets carriers to ensure top-tier service and on-time deliveries. Shippers benefit from TLI's strong buying power, resulting in cost savings and streamlined logistics that simplify even the most complex supply chains.

Temperature-controlled delivery services play a vital role in transporting perishable goods by maintaining precise temperature ranges that prevent spoilage and extend product shelf life. This service is crucial for items like fresh produce, dairy, seafood, and pharmaceuticals, helping businesses comply with regulations and meet customer expectations while minimizing waste and financial losses.

TLI specializes in transporting seafood and other perishable goods, working closely with major companies in the pharmaceutical industry. Their expertise in managing temperature-sensitive shipments ensures that products arrive in perfect condition, preserving quality and adhering to strict safety standards. By partnering with TLI, shippers gain a reliable freight brokerage committed to delivering cost-effective, high-quality shipping solutions.

"My TLI rep consistently communicates with me about my temperature controlled shipments in a timely manner. He ensures I get the best reefer rates and service possible." - North American Temperature Controlled Shipper

Commodities

A temperature-controlled trailer transports a wide variety of commodities, including fresh produce, dairy products, meat, seafood, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and electronics. Temperature control ensures these goods arrive in the same condition as when they were loaded.

Proper temperature control is essential for ensuring the quality and safety of products. If the trailer's temperature isn’t properly maintained, goods can spoil, become contaminated, or deteriorate in quality. So this can result in substantial financial losses for the shipper and damage their reputation.

When is the reefer TL market busy?

The reefer truckload market experiences peak activity during summer and major holidays. In the summer, rising temperatures increase the need for refrigerated transport to keep perishable goods from spoiling, leading to a surge in demand for reefer truckload services for items like fresh produce and dairy products.

Similarly, demand spikes before major holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, as businesses and individuals transport large quantities of food and other perishable items for celebrations.

However, the exact timing and intensity of these busy periods can vary due to factors like weather conditions, supply chain disruptions, and shifting consumer preferences.

Refrigerated Truck Solutions for Optimal Temperature Control

At Translogistics (TLI), we excel in routing refrigerated trucks with high quality FTL carriers to keep your shipments at the perfect temperature. Our motor carrier partners' temperature-controlled trailers are equipped with tight seals to maintain consistent temperatures and come with advanced tire inflation systems and air ride suspension, upon request, for a smooth, dependable transport.

For added safety and to ensure the integrity of your food in transit, we recommend our shipping partners to enforce sealing the trailer and recording the seal number on the bill of lading. This thorough approach ensures your temperature-sensitive cargo remains in optimal condition from pickup to delivery.