Dispatch Services
Reefer Dispatching for Owner-Operators
Temperature-sensitive freight demands a dispatcher who knows the difference between a pre-cool and a continuous run. We handle reefer loads exclusively for owner-operators — flat 7%, no contracts.
Reefer Is a Different Game
Dry van dispatchers can book reefer loads. That doesn't mean they should. Reefer freight comes with temperature requirements, pre-cool windows, continuous run clauses, and commodity-specific handling rules that a generalist dispatcher will miss — and you'll pay for it in claims, short pay, or a rejected load.
We dispatch reefer exclusively alongside dry van because we know both markets. We know which brokers respect reefer rates, which lanes run hot in Q4, and how to negotiate temperature deviation clauses before you ever hook up.
What We Handle on Every Reefer Load
Temperature Requirement Verification
We confirm the required temperature range, pre-cool window, and continuous run requirements with the broker before dispatch — so there are no surprises at the shipper.
Rate Confirmation Review
We read every rate confirmation before you sign it. We flag temperature deviation language, missing detention clauses, and any terms that could expose you to a claim or short pay.
Broker Credit Vetting
We check every broker's credit score and payment history before booking. Reefer loads are higher-value freight — we only book with brokers who have a track record of paying on time.
Rate Negotiation
Reefer rates are negotiable. We know the market rates for your lanes and push back on low offers. We also negotiate fuel surcharge, detention, and TONU into every rate confirmation.
Detention & Accessorial Recovery
If you're held at a shipper or receiver, we document the detention clock and pursue payment. We handle the dispute so you can focus on the road.
Invoicing & Document Handling
We generate your BOL invoice and submit it to the broker the same day delivery is confirmed. No paperwork backlog, no missed invoices, no chasing payment on loads you forgot to bill.
Reefer vs. Dry Van: What You Need to Know
Higher base rates
Reefer loads typically pay $0.20–$0.40/mile more than comparable dry van lanes due to equipment cost, fuel consumption, and handling complexity.
Fuel burn is higher
Running the reefer unit adds roughly 0.5–1 gallon per hour of fuel consumption on top of your truck's fuel. Factor this into your break-even RPM calculation.
Pre-cool windows matter
Many shippers require the trailer to be pre-cooled to a specific temperature before arrival. Missing the pre-cool window can result in a rejected load or delayed pickup.
Continuous run vs. cycle sentry
Continuous run keeps the reefer unit running at all times. Cycle sentry cycles on and off to maintain temperature. The shipper specifies which is required — confirm it before you move.
Temperature deviation claims
If freight arrives outside the required temperature range, the shipper or receiver can file a claim against you. Rate confirmation language matters — we review it before you sign.
Seasonal rate swings
Reefer rates spike in Q3 and Q4 with produce season and holiday food shipments. We track seasonal lane trends to position you in high-rate corridors at the right time.
How It Works
Carrier Setup
Complete our carrier setup form. We collect your MC number, insurance, equipment details, and preferred lanes. Setup takes less than 10 minutes.
Lane & Rate Preferences
We discuss your home base, preferred lanes, minimum RPM, and any load restrictions. We use this to filter loads before we ever bring them to you.
Load Sourcing & Negotiation
We search load boards and our broker network for reefer loads that meet your criteria. We negotiate rate, detention, TONU, and accessorials before presenting the load to you.
Rate Confirmation Review
We review the rate confirmation before you sign it. We flag any language that could expose you to a claim, short pay, or waived accessorial rights.
In-Transit Support
We're available 24/7 during transit. If you're detained, if a receiver rejects the load, or if a broker goes dark — we handle it.
Invoicing & Payment Follow-Up
We generate and submit your invoice the day delivery is confirmed. We track payment and follow up with the broker if it's late.
Common Questions
Related Services
Ready to Run Smarter Reefer Loads?
Start Carrier Setup Today
Flat 7% dispatch fee. No contracts. No setup costs. We handle the broker calls, rate confirmations, and paperwork — you handle the driving.