What is a Refrigerated Trailer?

A refrigerated trailer, also known as a reefer trailer, is a trailer that is designed to transport or store temperature-sensitive goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, and other perishable items.
The trailer is equipped with insulation and a refrigeration system that helps to maintain a controlled temperature inside the trailer, typically between -20°C to +20°C (-4°F to +68°F) depending on the cargo requirements. The refrigeration system in a reefer trailer is designed to keep the cargo fresh and prevent spoilage during transportation. This makes it a crucial component of the supply chain for perishable goods.  The refrigeration system in the trailer can be powered by diesel engines or electric motors powered by onboard generators or from the truck, or shore power and the temperature can be adjusted remotely from outside the trailer.
Refrigerated trailers can be divided into two categories, large and small.  Large is 24’ to 53’ and is a type of semi-trailer pulled with a tractor that has a fifth wheel. Refrigerated trailers can be used for short or long-haul transportation and are commonly used by food manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to transport goods between production sites, warehouses, and retail locations.   Small refrigerated trailers also known as cooler or freezer trailers range from 7’ to 24’.  Small refrigerated trailers are used for deliveries but also temporary storage that are bumper pulled.  The most common are 5’x10’, 7’x12’ and 7’x16’.  Depending on the cargo requirements the trailer is equipped with a refrigeration system that freezes and refrigerates or just refrigerates.  The refrigeration system for trailers that just refrigerate is much less expensive because there is no need for a defrost system and the system doesn't need to go as low, generally 34 plus degrees.