Freight Glossary
Temperature-Controlled Freight
Temperature-controlled freight (also called reefer or cold chain) is cargo that requires transport within a specific temperature range, typically refrigerated (34 to 38 degrees F) or frozen (0 degrees F or below), to maintain product integrity and safety. Pharmaceutical shipments may require even tighter ranges, such as 36 to 46 degrees F, with continuous temperature monitoring throughout transit.
Why it matters
Breaking the cold chain, even briefly, can render perishable goods unsellable, create food safety liabilities, and result in total load rejection at the destination. Temperature excursions are costly and difficult to dispute after the fact. A single rejected reefer load of fresh produce can represent $20,000 to $50,000 in lost product with no salvage value.
When to use it
Require temperature-controlled equipment for any food, pharmaceutical, or perishable product with documented temperature requirements. Never assume ambient freight will maintain quality for temperature sensitive goods. Even products like chocolate, candles, or cosmetics may need temperature protection in summer months when trailer interior temperatures can exceed 140 degrees F.
How Warp thinks about it
Warp's current network focuses on ambient freight. Shippers with temperature-controlled requirements should verify equipment availability. Warp continues to expand its capabilities to serve more freight categories. Through its 20,000+ carrier partners, Warp can source specialized equipment for temperature sensitive loads on a per-shipment basis.