Refrigerated shipping, also known as reefer shipping, is the method of transporting temperature-controlled goods. In the case of reefer shipping, freight is loaded and transported with build-in refrigeration systems and climate controls so that the temperature-controlled goods can be transported safely. In other words, reefer shipping trucks have built-in refrigeration which cools the goods throughout the transportation process.

Reefer shipping was first used in the 1800’s where freight was put on large pieces of ice and salt to keep the goods in a cool environment. However, this method not only resulted in spoiled products, but also damaged the trailer. An advanced version of reefer was seen in the 1900’s, and improvement in technology gives us cold chain logistics and continues to grow. Technology is always there to solve problems and now we have an advanced refrigerated shipping method with temperature monitoring systems to preserve the goods.

In addition to trucks, there are also reefer ships. Most are hired as private carriers and in many cases are hired on a contract basis, as it is much more cost-effective than purchasing a fleet of ships.

Reefer shipping is booming. The US market growth rate from 2014 to 2019 is 12.44%, and it is predicted to reach 3.25 billion tons by the end of 2022. There are various reasons for this growth. One of the most obvious reasons is the availability of temperature-controlled vehicles.

Benefits of Refrigerated Transportation

For many products refrigerated shipping is not an option, but an absolute necessity. From a safety point of view,goods like dairy, meat products, pharmaceutics, etc. require refrigerated transportation.

Some benefits of reefer shipping are:

1) Keeps goods fresh

People are continuously demanding fresh foods, and for this,customers are willing to pay more. This expectation requires to use of refrigerated shipping, as refrigerated shipping helps keep food fresh.

2) Reliability

Refrigerated containers are also specially designed to protect the product from heat and light so all and all it is a safe and reliable way to move sensitive goods.

3) Hot or cold weather doesn’t matter

Hiring a refrigerated shipping container in Canada is a smart and flexible option when shipping sensitive goods. The right transport service will not only give you reliable service, but will also give you access to new opportunities. Reefer transportation secures goods,regardless of hot or cold weather,so that the product remains fresh.

4) Short and long term storage

Hire refrigerated shipping to meet the requirements of your business. When you pay for a shipping unit, you can always have fridge space to meet your custom requirements.

Temperature-controlled containers provide:

•  Mobile catering for events and functions

•  Cold storage

•  Agriculture and horticulture food storage

5) Efficient Packing

Along with the transportation of the products, packaging also plays an important role in the shipping of goods.Protecting the shipment and controlling its temperature are major factors, as well as the density when packing the cargo.

Selecting the best refrigerator service

It is important to select a service partner that can deliver your product safely and securely. Companies can’t leave their refrigerated requirements to those who have less experience and expertise in reefer shipments.

How do reefer ships fit into logistics and shipping?

Reefer is not only limited to trucks,but also includes other forms of transportation such as ships and airplanes.

As you know reefer shipping plays an important part in transporting products that need extra care. It is important to note though, that although shipping perishable goods through reefer shipping covers a large portion of the risk, it’s not risk-free, however, it is dependable. In addition to controlling the temperature during shipment, team members use mobile apps to exchange and receive information in real time so that a shipment is not sitting too long, thus reducing spoilage.