What Is a Reefer Truck? (USA Logistics Guide)
A Reefer Truck — short for Refrigerated Truck — is a temperature-controlled trailer used across the USA to transport goods that must stay cold, frozen, or climate-controlled during transit. These trucks play a crucial role in the American supply chain, ensuring that perishable goods reach supermarkets, warehouses, and distribution centers safely and fresh.
Why Reefer Trucks Are Important in the USA
Reefer trucks are essential for industries where product freshness and safety are top priorities. They help maintain accurate temperatures from pickup to delivery, following FDA and USDA guidelines.
Common Products Transported in Reefer Trucks
- Fresh Produce – vegetables, fruits, and greens
- Frozen Foods – meat, poultry, seafood
- Dairy & Beverages – milk, cheese, juices
- Pharmaceuticals – medicines, vaccines, medical supplies
- Flowers & Plants – temperature-sensitive floral goods
How Reefer Trucks Work
A reefer truck uses a built-in refrigeration unit powered by diesel or electric energy. It keeps the trailer at a controlled temperature from -20°F to +70°F depending on cargo type.
Key Features
- Insulated trailer walls
- Advanced temperature control systems
- Continuous monitoring
- Airflow management
- Emergency cooling backup
Types of Reefer Loads in the USA
- Frozen Loads – deep frozen products transported below 0°F
- Chilled Loads – fresh produce carried at controlled cool temperatures
- Multi-Stop Reefer Loads – multiple deliveries requiring strict scheduling
- Hotshot Reefer – small, urgent temperature-controlled deliveries
Benefits of Using Reefer Trucks
- Safe transport of perishable goods
- Long-distance cold chain protection
- Compliance with US food safety regulations
- High load demand year-round
- Premium rates for drivers and dispatchers
Why Businesses Trust Reefer Trucks in America
Reefer trucking is highly reliable because it ensures:
- Zero spoilage
- Accurate temperature tracking
- Reduced product loss
- Consistent supply chain flow
- Customer satisfaction
Reefer Trucking in the USA: Dispatching Perspective
For dispatch companies like yours, reefer loads offer:
- High-paying lanes
- Steady load availability
- Less seasonal slowdown
- Longer and more profitable routes
Dispatchers also monitor:
- Temperature requirements
- Appointment scheduling
- Check-in/check-out updates
- Route optimization
- Driver assistance