Equipment / Trailers
Reefer in trucking
Plain-English explanation
A reefer is a refrigerated trailer used for freight that needs temperature control. The trailer has a refrigeration unit, fuel needs, set-point instructions, and temperature records that a dry van does not have.
For reefer freight, the definition is only half the work. The driver and office also need the set point, run mode, fuel level, pre-cool status, and temperature documentation.
Why it matters in trucking
Reefer freight can be rejected if the temperature, unit status, or documentation is wrong. Dispatch should confirm the set point, pre-cool requirement, pulp temperature instructions, and reefer fuel before pickup.
Temperature-controlled freight leaves less room for vague notes. A missing set point or unclear reefer instruction can become a claim problem later.
Example in real use
A produce load may require the trailer to be pre-cooled to 34 degrees before arrival, with the reefer running continuous and the temperature setting written on the BOL.
Common mistakes or confusion
- Treating reefer freight like dry van freight after pickup.
- Missing pre-cool or continuous-run instructions on the rate confirmation.
- Not checking reefer fuel, unit alarms, or temperature records before loading.
Related terms
Commonly confused with
Related guides
Truck Parts and Equipment Terms is the best next place to keep learning this topic.
Sources and last updated
Last updated: 2026-05-10