Reefer (refrigerated trailer) freight rate per mile
$2.60 - $3.35/mile
National-average reference range (DAT 2026 basis, all-in including fuel surcharge). Reference ranges only, your lane, season, and fuel will move these. Always price your own load. Price your load with the calculator below.
Low end
$2.60/mi
High end
$3.35/mi
Typical fuel economy
6 mpg
What drives the Reefer rate
- Temperature spec: multi-temp and frozen loads command a premium over chilled.
- Produce season (spring and summer) spikes demand sharply in CA, FL, and the Pacific NW.
- Reefer unit shortages tighten capacity faster than dry van during peak demand.
- Reefer unit fuel burn (0.5-0.7 gal/hr, separate from truck diesel) adds real cost.
How to price your Reefer load
Start with the reefer spot index for your lane and add a temperature premium for frozen or multi-temp loads. Factor in reefer unit fuel burn separately from truck diesel in the load profit calculator below.
Open load profit calculatorFrequently asked questions
Reefer (refrigerated trailer) is $2.60-$3.35/mile all-in (DAT 2026 national average). Your specific lane, season, and fuel costs will move these numbers significantly in either direction, so always price from your actual lane data before accepting a load.
