What is a refrigerated or reefer truck?

Embedded deeply in our country’s supply chain is the transportation of temperature-sensitive goods. This cold chain is driven through the use of reefer or refrigerated trucks. Reefer trucks are designed to allow for perishables, frozen goods, or other items requiring a specific controlled temperature to be moved across long distances. A reefer truck’s purpose is to ensure that cargo is protected from the elements and kept at the necessary temperature to prevent spoilage or other damage. Refrigerated trucks are different from a simple insulated or ventilated truck. Instead, these specialty commercial vehicles are designed with a refrigeration system that is often powered by a small-displacement diesel engine. The end result is that a refrigeration truck is capable of hauling goods across the country while keeping them cool and protected.

What is a reefer truck’s refrigeration range of temperature?

While the term “refrigeration truck” leads one to think about keeping items cold, the reefer truck actually keeps goods at any controlled temperature – hot or cold. For that reason, reefer trucks have an incredible range of available temperature options. Some models can keep goods anywhere from -85˚F to 104˚F. More common, smaller models might boast a range closer to 13˚F to 77˚F. The temperature option available will depend on the model and manufacturer chosen. It is important to ensure that you purchase a reefer truck that meets your temperature needs and also ensures that the vehicle you choose has proper monitoring systems that meet current regulations. The FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) program is a system that is used to help regulate everything from manufacturing to the distribution of raw materials. This act includes strict regulation on the monitoring of temperatures in reefer trucks that are transporting temperature-sensitive goods.

What are the common uses for reefer trucks?

Reefer trucks allow for cargo that must be kept at a specific temperature to be easily transported across any distance. Not only do reefer trucks keep goods held at a specific temperature, but they also protect it from the elements. With built-in refrigeration or heating systems, this type of specialty commercial truck is utilized across a wide array of industries. A few of the most common uses for reefer trucks include the following: Food service Farming Pharmaceutical Grocery delivery Art transportation Hazardous materials As you can see, many industries have the need for a truck with controlled temperatures. From transporting fresh produce across state lines to moving artwork from one high-end gallery to another, these refrigerated trucks and trailers play an integral role in the cold chain.

What is the difference between a reefer truck and a dry van?

In the world of transporting goods, semi-trucks and other heavy cargo trailers are center stage. Two distinct types of trucks designed specifically for the commercial road transport industry are the reefer truck and the dry van. A dry van is probably one of the most common types of trucks on the market. Often referred to simply as a box truck, it is utilized for transporting everything from furniture to appliances and other dry goods. Reefer trucks look extremely similar to a dry van. However, a reefer or refrigeration truck is a specialized version of a transportation truck. These trucks come in a wide variety of sizes and offer the ability to control the temperature of goods during transport. For this reason, a reefer truck is utilized for more specialized cargo needs.

Do you need a CDL to drive a reefer truck?

There are reefer trucks available which do not require a CDL, and reefer trucks which do require a CDL. This will depend on the GVWR of the truck. If the GVWR of the truck is 26,001 lbs or greater, you will need a CDL to operate it. Talk to one of our sales professionals to determine which truck will best suit your business needs for size and weight.