Freight guides
Reefer Temperature Guide by Commodity
Typical cold-chain temperature ranges for common refrigerated commodities, so you can set expectations before booking a reefer load.
Always verify the exact required temperature with your consignee — this guide is a general reference, not a substitute for shipment-specific instructions.
Reefer temperature guide
- Frozen foods-10°F to 0°F
- Ice cream-20°F
- Fresh produce34°F to 38°F
- Dairy34°F to 38°F
- Protect from freeze35°F minimum
- Floral33°F to 36°F
Confirm required temperatures with your consignee before booking.
How to use it
- 1.Identify the commodity you're shipping.
- 2.Find its typical temperature range in the guide above.
- 3.Confirm the exact required set point with your shipper or consignee.
- 4.Share the confirmed temperature with your carrier before dispatch.
FAQ
Reefer temperature questions
What temperature should frozen food ship at?
Frozen foods generally ship between -10°F and 0°F; ice cream is often held closer to -20°F.
What temperature is used for fresh produce?
Most fresh produce and dairy ship between 34°F and 38°F, though specific commodities can vary.
What does 'protect from freeze' mean?
It means the product must be kept above roughly 35°F to avoid freeze damage, without needing deep refrigeration.
Who sets the required shipping temperature?
The shipper or consignee sets the required range based on the product; always confirm before dispatch.
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