Reefer Shipping Cost Calculator
Refrigerated freight runs a premium over dry van — typically 20-30% — and the premium grows with how demanding your temperature band is. This prices your lane by temperature setpoint and trailer configuration.
Formula: reefer cost = miles × dry-van rate × (1 + temperature premium + multi-zone premium). Premiums are 2026 example midpoints (MetricRig cold-chain benchmarks): reefer spot runs 20-30% above dry van; setpoint bands chilled 34-40°F, controlled 50-60°F, frozen −10-0°F; multi-zone trailers +10-20%. Use: sanity-check broker quotes and decide contract vs spot exposure — uncontracted reefer spot in a tight market is direct P&L risk.
FAQ
How much more does reefer cost than dry van?
Typically 20-30% more per mile. In 2026, reefer spot rates average $2.85-$3.20/mi versus roughly $2.30 for dry van; contracted reefer runs $2.40-$2.70/mi.
What temperature band should I quote?
Chilled (34-40°F) covers produce, dairy, most fresh food. Controlled (50-60°F) covers wine and some pharma. Frozen (−10-0°F) for frozen food. Pharma 2-8°C needs tight tolerance, monitoring, and excursion documentation — quote it higher.
When are reefer rates highest?
Produce season (April-July) and holiday food shipments (Q4). Spot rates run 30-50 cents per mile above contract in those windows — lock annual or quarterly contracts covering at least 70% of volume before Q3.
Figures are editable example defaults for planning, not rate quotes. Trucking costs and freight rates vary by region, lane, season, equipment, and negotiation — verify with current load boards, your insurance agent, and fuel receipts before committing to a rate.