Reefer Carriers

A temperature-controlled 53-foot trailer with an onboard refrigeration unit, typically running -20°F to 70°F. Used for perishable freight like produce, meat, dairy, and pharmaceuticals.

Reefer freight commands a rate premium over dry van in most lanes, since running the trailer's diesel-powered refrigeration unit around the clock adds fuel cost, and a mechanical failure can spoil an entire load — carriers running reefer carry that added risk and equipment cost. Produce lanes are also seasonal and regional in a way general freight isn't, following harvest schedules across growing regions.

26,229 carriers in our directory report hauling fresh produce, meat, or refrigerated food on their FMCSA filing — the cargo categories we map to Reefer. They're based across 51 states, led by California (3,488), Texas (1,964), Florida (1,471).