Reefer Fuel Surcharge

A reefer fuel surcharge is a separate line item on freight invoices for temperature-controlled shipments, covering the diesel consumed by the trailer's refrigeration unit. Unlike the standard fuel surcharge – which compensates for the truck's main engine fuel costs – the reefer surcharge specifically addresses the refrigeration unit, which runs on its own fuel supply for the entire duration of transit. This is a continuous burn: the reefer unit runs whether the truck is moving or parked, making transit time and dwell time both factors in the total fuel cost.

Reefer fuel surcharges are typically calculated as a flat rate per mile, a percentage of the linehaul rate, or a flat fee per shipment, depending on the carrier and contract. Rates fluctuate with diesel prices and may be adjusted weekly or monthly based on a published fuel index. For long-haul temperature-controlled shipments, the reefer surcharge can add 10–20% or more on top of the standard fuel surcharge – a material cost for cold chain shippers moving perishables across the country.

For food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and cold chain shippers, reefer fuel surcharges are an unavoidable cost of doing business, but they're also an area where billing accuracy matters. The surcharge should reflect the actual service provided – shipments that run at continuous temperature require more fuel than those that only need protect-from-freeze settings, and the rate should align with contracted terms. Auditing reefer surcharges alongside standard fuel surcharges ensures carriers aren't applying incorrect rates or double-charging.