Some freight cannot tolerate the temperature of the trailer it ships in. Refrigerated and temperature-controlled shipping keeps cargo within a set range from pickup to delivery, whether that means keeping produce cold, frozen goods frozen, or beverages and pharmaceuticals from freezing in winter. Getting it right protects product quality, shelf life, and your customer relationships.
This guide covers what temperature-controlled shipping is, the equipment and modes available, the temperature ranges different freight needs, and the seasonal protect from freeze service. Start at our truckload freight hub for the wider mode overview.
Refrigerated and temperature-controlled shipping maintains a set temperature in transit using reefer trucks, refrigerated LTL, or intermodal. Frozen freight runs around -10 to 0 F, fresh produce 34 to 38 F. In winter, protect from freeze service keeps freight above 32 F. Match the mode and temperature to your cargo.
What Is Temperature-Controlled Shipping?
Temperature-controlled shipping moves freight in equipment that actively holds a target temperature range. A refrigerated trailer, or reefer, uses a powered cooling and heating unit plus insulation to keep cargo cold, frozen, or simply above freezing. Continuous temperature monitoring confirms the cargo stayed in range the entire trip.
Modes: Reefer Truckload, LTL, and Intermodal
Temperature-controlled freight moves on more than one mode. Refrigerated truck transport, a full reefer trailer, suits larger or time sensitive temperature-sensitive loads. For smaller shipments, refrigerated LTL shares reefer space across shippers. Refrigerated intermodal can work for long hauls on consistent lanes. The right mode depends on volume, distance, and how tight the temperature window is.
Temperature Ranges by Freight Type
Different cargo needs different setpoints. Use these common ranges as a starting point, then confirm the exact requirement for your product.
Protect From Freeze: The Winter Service
Protect from freeze, often shortened to PFF, is a seasonal service that keeps freight from freezing during cold months. It does not require deep refrigeration, just keeping cargo above 32 degrees F using heated or insulated trailers, blankets, and by keeping the load moving rather than sitting in the cold. It matters for beverages, paints, adhesives, certain foods, and pharmaceuticals.
To request it, flag the shipment as PROTECT FROM FREEZE on the bill of lading with the required minimum temperature. Carriers bill it as a flat fee or weight based surcharge. Freeze season runs roughly November through March, and capacity tightens fast, so plan protected shipments early and avoid weekend or holiday transit when terminals are closed.
Protect from freeze is not the same as refrigeration. It keeps freight above freezing, not at a precise cold setpoint. Confirm whether your cargo needs full temperature control or only freeze protection, and never let a protected load sit in freezing weather over a weekend.
How to Ship Temperature-Sensitive Freight
Start by setting the exact temperature range your cargo must hold. Choose the right equipment and mode for the volume and distance. Use proper insulated packaging as a second layer of protection. Insist on temperature monitoring so you have a record. And work with a partner that vets reefer and heated carriers carefully. Our team uses a freeze protection checklist from pre-shipment prep through delivery documentation, and vets our carrier network to match your cargo. For how reefer pricing compares, see our guide to full truckload rates.
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Request a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between refrigerated and protect from freeze shipping?
Refrigerated shipping holds a precise cold or frozen setpoint for perishables. Protect from freeze simply keeps freight above 32 degrees F so it does not freeze, used mainly in winter for items like beverages, paints, and some pharmaceuticals.
How do I request protect from freeze service?
Mark the shipment PROTECT FROM FREEZE on the bill of lading with the minimum temperature required, for example keep above 32 F. Carriers charge a flat fee or weight based surcharge for the service.
When is freeze protection season?
Freeze season generally runs November through March. Capacity for protected shipments tightens quickly, so plan early and avoid weekend or holiday transit when terminals are closed.
What temperature should my freight ship at?
It depends on the cargo. Frozen goods run about -10 to 0 F, fresh produce and dairy 34 to 38 F, and many pharmaceuticals 36 to 46 F. Confirm the exact range for your specific product.
Protect Your Temperature-Sensitive Freight With MFW
From frozen and refrigerated loads to winter freeze protection, MyFreightWorld matches your cargo to vetted temperature-controlled carriers and keeps it in range from pickup to delivery. Explore the truckload freight hub or request a quote below.
Need temperature-controlled capacity?
Send your temperature requirements and lane and we will match vetted reefer or heated carriers with competitive pricing.
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