Reefer freight, short for refrigerated freight, is a method of transport used when the goods being shipped need to be kept refrigerated or frozen. The temperature of the shipping container cannot rise above a predefined limit in order to preserve the quality of the shipment.
Reefer freight is commonly used to transport food commodities such as produce, fruit, meat, seafood, poultry, eggs and dairy, but it can also be used to ship temperature sensitive goods like medication.
Planning a reefer freight shipment
Research the items you are shipping and determine the specific temperature range that must be maintained in order to prevent spoilage. Remember that reefer shipments must be kept at temperature not only in transit, but also while being loaded and unloaded. Package your shipment to make this process fast and efficient.
Familiarize yourself with the specific dimensions of the reefer container, because it may not be standard capacity due to refrigeration equipment and added insulation. Do not calculate capacity by the length of the container alone.
How to Choose a Service Provider for Reefer Freight
- Ensure that you can contact the service provider while your shipment is in transit.
- Inquire about the service provider’s experience with reefer freight, and specifically about their experience in transporting your type of shipment.
- Communicate all the details about your reefer shipment, and double check for accuracy.
- Ask about the maintenance and monitoring programs they have in place, disinfection procedures, and what backup plans are in place in case the upper limit is reached for your reefer freight.
