In the case of transporting refrigerated freight, picking up and dropping off at the final location is complex. Logistics service providers experience big challenges. There are numerous problems and roadblocks that truckers may face or must consider when transporting "reefer" freight. The following are just a few safety and efficiency guidelines for reefer truck drivers to remember when on the road. Reefer truck drivers should follow these guidelines.
Delivering refrigerated freight might be difficult, but reefer truck drivers can improve their chances of success by following these basic guidelines:
- Check the Trailer is clean and Properly Sanitated
Some reefer truck deliveries may include products such as meat, which can harbor harmful bacteria if not adequately cleaned up. You can avoid infecting your next load by sweeping and cleaning your semi-trailer after each delivery with an USDA approved detergent.
Make a point of cleaning up any spills or wet patches and keeping an eye out for anything that may have been left behind (e.g., debris, nails, screws, and wood pieces).
Some Shippers can give you specific procedures to clean the trailer, follow them to avoid contamination or odors.
- Check and monitor the temperature of your trailer: Companies delivering perishable items for public consumption must keep cold goods at particular temperatures. Check the temperature of your trailer throughout your journey to ensure it remains at the proper temperature.
It is a good idea to monitor the temperature of your trailer every couple of hours. Drivers should make it a habit to check the temperature whenever they stop or get out of their truck.
- For proper airflow, adhere to the loading guidelines: Always ensure that freight is packed correctly so that appropriate airflow throughout the trailer is maintained. It usually entails providing enough room on either side of the cargo to allow air to circulate between articles and disperse evenly within the trailer.
If you provide enough space between trailer walls or between products, your freight's temperature may stay stable.
Following the Shipper's instructions is mandatory; they know their goods and the conditions required to protect the cargo for optimal delivery. In some cases, the Shipper can request the carrier to set a specific temperature before loading the goods. The trailer must arrive at the pickup destination cold not to break the cold chain.
- Before you pick up your load, fill up your tank: The reefer trucking trailers must be operational to keep the trailer temperature stable, temperature control generates high diesel consumption. It's crucial to remember that every extra stop might affect the temperature of your trailer and the cargo within. When your trailer runs out of diesel, it loses power, affecting your load's warmth. So, when you pick up your shipment, be sure you have enough fuel to reach your destination without stopping.
It is bad practice to manipulate the temperature control to save diesel; you can save diesel and ruin a load that your insurance company won't be responsible for.
- Always double-check that your trailer is appropriately positioned: Nothing is more frustrating than arriving for a delivery and discovering that your reefer trailer was not switched on or was set to the incorrect temperature.
During your pre-trip inspection, double-check that the thermostat of your trailer is turned on and set to the right temperature for the freight you're hauling.
Make a point of cleaning up any spills or wet patches and keeping an eye out for anything that may have been left behind (e.g., debris, nails, screws, and wood pieces).
- Plan your routes carefully: Long-distance shipments of refrigerated freight might take much work. Reefer truck drivers should always follow their route and trip plan to make deliveries on schedule. Remember that longer trips increase the likelihood of freight spoilage.
- Keep an eye on the weather: Although reefer trailers are meant to keep their internal temperature stable, it's vital to realize that the temperature and weather outside the trailer might still affect the interior temperature. Drivers may need to change the temperature of their reefer slightly to accommodate changing weather conditions.
If the weather is scorching, drivers may consider lowering the temperature of their reefer trailer to compensate for the heat's effect on its exterior.
Similarly, if the outside temperature is exceptionally cold or below zero, drivers may need to raise the interior temperature of their reefer trailer.
To get the shipment to reach the destination safely and without spoilage, one must contact professional reefers. Follow the freight brokerage company's guidelines for building a long-term relationship.
5 
