Freight glossary / Equipment and trailers

What is Reefer in freight?

A reefer is a refrigerated trailer with its own powered cooling unit, used for food, produce, pharmaceuticals, and anything else that must stay within a temperature range. The unit runs on its own fuel supply independent of the tractor, so it keeps cooling while the trailer is dropped. Reefer freight carries more claim risk than dry van because a temperature excursion can total a load that looks physically undamaged.

Also called: refrigerated trailer, temp controlled.

Related terms

• Dry van
• Temperature recorder
• Freight claim
• Cold chain