Setting the Standard for Cold Chain Shipping

Cold chain shipping: where the stakes are high and the margin for error is razor thin. Whether it’s fresh produce, dairy, meat, or pharmaceuticals, temperature-controlled logistics isn’t just a box to check—it’s critical to cold chain shippers who are looking for logistics solutions that ensure food safety, preserve product integrity and can rely on on-time in full deliveries.

Types of cold chain shipping

Each type is selected based on the sensitivity of the product, transit time, and regulatory requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the main types:

1. Refrigerated (Chilled) Shipping

• Temperature Range: 32°F to 55°F (0°C to 13°C)
• Used For: Fresh produce, dairy, eggs, flowers, some beverages
• Notes: Most common type of cold chain freight—often referred to as “reefer shipping.”

2. Frozen Shipping

• Temperature Range: 0°F to -10°F (-18°C to -23°C)
• Used For: Meat, seafood, frozen meals, ice cream
• Notes: Requires stronger insulation and higher-powered cooling systems to maintain deep freeze.

3. Deep-Frozen (Ultra-Low Temp) Shipping

• Temperature Range: Below -20°F (-29°C and lower)
• Used For: Biotech products, specialty meats, certain vaccines or pharma goods
• Notes: Often requires dry ice or specialized refrigeration units like cryogenic freezers.

The reality of reefer shipping

The reality cold chain shippers face today is a high-stakes balancing act—where consumer expectations, compliance demands, and operational pressures all require extreme care and extra attention. Let’s be honest: it’s complicated. You’ve got…

• Strict food safety regulations
• Tight delivery windows where “a little late” still means a rejected load.
• Fragile freight that can’t drop a degree or it’s no longer sellable.
• And customers who expect 100% visibility—and will call you if something’s off.

That list doesn’t include additional external circumstances like weather delays, equipment issues, last-minute order changes, or seasonal demand spikes.

And then there’s shipping technology. While innovations like real-time temperature tracking and trailer monitoring have come a long way and are big wins for the industry, they’re only as helpful as the team behind them. You need eyes on every shipment and proactive action when something looks off.

What shippers are looking for in logistic partners

Reefer shippers are looking for partners who can do more than just move freight – they’re looking for refrigerated shipping specialists who understand their unique challenges and have the right tools and solutions like:

• Reliable, food-grade carriers who meet safety and compliance standards like FSMA, HACCP and other regulations.
• A full support team who knows what’s at stake – no chat bots, AI bots, or any other bots.
• That same support team who is fully integrated with technology and tracking capabilities.
• Smarter routes through load optimization and lane consolidation to keep food fresh.
• After-hours help for those inevitable “oh no” moments.
• And most importantly: shipments that arrive on time, in full, and at temp.

They need reliability, visibility, fast action, and a team that treats their freight like it’s their own. When freshness, compliance, and timing all matter equally, the right partner isn’t just helpful—they’re essential to keeping products safe, customers happy, and operations running smooth.

DLX is all in on technology and the team behind it

Throughout the years, one thing we’ve always found to be true: Even the best technology is only as effective as the people behind it. DLX brings a team of real people who don’t clock out when things get tough, using proven processes and proactive support to move refrigerated freight with accuracy and efficiency – in fact, we’ve built our reputation by getting the cold chain right.

Here’s how we make reefer shipping easier for our partners:

• Full-service support 24/7.
• Massive network of vetted, compliant carriers.
• Top-tier OTIF score to keep your customers happy.
• Smart technology solutions, backed by people who know how to use it.

Together, we can help you deliver fresher, smarter and on-time. When you’re ready to talk cold chain logistics, reach out to our reefer shipping team and discover how we can streamline your operations.