Reefer Fuel Surcharge

A reefer fuel surcharge is a separate line-item charge added to refrigerated freight invoices to cover the cost of diesel fuel consumed by the trailer's refrigeration unit. Unlike the standard fuel surcharge that covers the truck's road diesel, the reefer fuel surcharge specifically addresses the additional fuel needed to power the refrigeration system that maintains temperature control throughout transit.

Reefer units typically consume 0.5 to 1.5 gallons of diesel per hour of operation, depending on the ambient temperature, the target temperature, the age and condition of the reefer unit, and whether the unit is in continuous run or start-stop cycle mode. On a 2,000-mile cross-country trip taking approximately 3 to 4 days, a reefer unit may consume 40 to 100 gallons of diesel, representing $150 to $400 in fuel costs at current prices.

Deep-frozen loads require more reefer fuel than chilled loads because the greater temperature differential between the trailer interior and the ambient environment forces the compressor to work harder and run more continuously. Similarly, shipments during summer months consume more reefer fuel than winter shipments because the ambient heat load on the trailer is greater.

Reefer fuel surcharges are typically calculated as a flat fee per load, a per-mile charge, or a percentage of the base freight rate. The amount varies based on the distance, the temperature requirement, and the carrier's fuel cost structure. Some carriers include reefer fuel in their all-in rate, while others break it out as a separate line item. ArrowLane provides transparent pricing that clearly identifies all surcharges, so shippers understand exactly what they are paying for.