Mercedes Mullins
Reefer trailers, also known as reefers, are refrigerated trucks that transport perishable goods at controlled temperatures. They require two types of fuel: one for the engine and one for the refrigeration unit. Reefer fuel powers the refrigeration unit, which has its own motor and fuel tank to keep cargo at the right temperature. The amount of reefer fuel consumed depends on various factors, including the trailer's age, load size, and ambient temperature. On average, older trailers use between 0.5 and 1.5 gallons of reefer fuel per hour, while newer trailers use 0.4 to 1.1 gallons per hour. Reefer fuel tanks typically have a capacity of 50 gallons, but some can hold up to 100 gallons. Proper maintenance of the refrigeration system is crucial to optimise fuel efficiency and avoid excessive fuel consumption.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of fuel storage tanks | 2 |
| What do the tanks power? | One powers the refrigerator, and the other powers the engine |
| Fuel usage calculation | Hours, not miles |
| Average fuel usage | Half a gallon to a gallon of fuel every hour |
| Fuel efficiency factors | Refrigeration system maintenance, ambient temperature, trailer's overall condition |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 gallons (Carrier Transicold and Thermo King); up to 100 gallons (other manufacturers) |
| Reefer fuel usage per hour | 0.4-1.1 gallons (newer units); 1-3 gallons (older units) |
| Reefer fuel cost | $2.74 per mile (as of December 2022) |
| Reefer fuel taxation | Exempt from International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) taxation; eligible for federal and state tax refunds |
| Reefer fuel usage restrictions | Restricted to off-road situations and private land use; not for powering a vehicle's engine on a public road |
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What You'll Learn
Reefer fuel usage
Reefer fuel is an essential option for companies that transport temperature-controlled goods. Reefer trucks are used to keep food and other products at a controlled temperature with a built-in refrigeration system. These vehicles have two fuel storage tanks—one for the refrigerator and one for the engine. Reefer fuel is used to power the refrigeration unit, while diesel typically powers the engine.
The size of the reefer fuel tank also varies depending on the manufacturer. Some tanks have a capacity of 50 gallons, while others may max out at closer to 100 gallons. The bigger the fuel tank, the more reefer fuel usage can be tolerated between fill-ups. However, it is important to note that the first and last quarter of a tank will burn more quickly than the middle half.
Understanding and managing reefer fuel usage is critical for companies transporting cold shipments. Proper maintenance of the refrigeration system can also help improve fuel efficiency and reduce costs. Reefer fuel costs vary across the United States, but it is generally less expensive than regular diesel due to its tax-exempt status.
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Reefer fuel tanks
Reefer fuel powers the refrigerated portion of tractor-trailers. Refrigerated trucks have two fuel storage tanks, one for the refrigerator and the other for the engine. Reefer fuel has different legal requirements, costs, and efficiency metrics than regular diesel fuel. It is typically used in refrigerated trucks, or "reefers", to transport perishable goods by maintaining a controlled temperature with a built-in refrigeration system.
Reefers require two types of fuel: standard diesel for the engine and reefer fuel for the refrigeration system. The reefer tank is usually located below the trailer, but can also be in the middle, off to the side, or at the rear. The refrigeration system must be powered down before filling the reefer tank. Reefer fuel undergoes combustion to create power that drives a small engine and compressor.
The amount of reefer fuel consumed depends on various factors, such as the trailer's insulation, ambient temperature, and overall condition. On average, reefers use about half a gallon to a gallon of fuel per hour. After 11 hours of driving, they will likely consume between 5.5 and 11 gallons of fuel for refrigeration. The fuel efficiency of the refrigeration system also depends on proper maintenance.
Reefer fuel is a type of tax-exempt diesel used for off-road and refrigerated trailer applications. It is not subject to the International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) taxation and is eligible for federal and state tax refunds. Reefer fuel is restricted to off-road use and cannot power a vehicle's engine on public roads. Its chemical composition is similar to regular diesel but is dyed red for identification.
Reefer trailer fuel tanks are available in various capacities, such as 42, 50, 60, and 100 gallons, to meet different requirements. These tanks are designed to maintain the desired temperature for perishable goods during transport and are built for durability and optimal performance.
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Reefer fuel cost
Reefer fuel, also known as refrigerated trailer fuel, is a type of diesel used to power the refrigeration systems of tractor-trailers. Unlike standard commercial trucks, refrigerated trucks require two types of fuel per trip: diesel for the engine and reefer fuel for the refrigeration system.
The cost of reefer fuel varies across the United States, depending on factors such as region, season, the state of the fuel market, and the fuel type. As of October 2023, the average cost of reefer fuel nationwide was $2.18 to $2.81 per gallon. This price range is lower than that of diesel fuel, which can be attributed to the absence of certain taxes on reefer fuel. Reefer fuel is exempt from International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) taxation and can qualify for federal and state tax refunds, making it a more cost-effective option for powering refrigeration units.
The amount of reefer fuel consumed depends on various factors, including the ambient temperature, trailer insulation, and the overall condition of the trailer. On average, reefers use about half a gallon to a gallon of fuel per hour of operation. Over an 11-hour driving period, this can result in a fuel consumption of 5.5 to 11 gallons. However, individual experiences may vary, with some users reporting a higher fuel burn rate, especially in used reefer trailers.
To manage reefer fuel costs effectively, organizations and drivers should consider long-term expenses beyond the initial purchase. Fuel economy, maintenance, and operating costs all play a role in maintaining profitability. Additionally, utilizing a fleet card or similar payment solutions can provide discounts, convenience, and better expense tracking for reefer fuel purchases.
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Reefer fuel vs diesel
Reefer fuel and diesel are two types of fuel used for different purposes. Reefer fuel, also known as refrigerated fuel, is a type of diesel used to power refrigeration units in trucks, trailers, and shipping containers. It is a specialised diesel designed for off-road and refrigerated trailer use, and it is not meant to power the vehicle's engine. On the other hand, diesel, or regular diesel, is used to fuel the engines of vehicles, including tractor-trailers.
Usage
Reefer fuel is used specifically for refrigeration units in trailers, trucks, and shipping containers. It helps maintain temperature control, keeping food and other products at a controlled temperature. The refrigeration system includes a compressor, evaporator, and condenser to cool the space. Reefer fuel undergoes combustion to create power for the refrigeration unit. The chemical composition of reefer fuel is similar to diesel, but it has a lower viscosity to improve flow at low temperatures and prevent gelling. It also has improved stability and oxidation resistance to withstand frequent cooling and heating cycles.
Diesel, on the other hand, is a standard fuel type used for transportation and agriculture. It is the fuel of choice for powering the engines of vehicles, including tractor-trailers. Diesel #2 is the most common type used for everyday transportation and agriculture, while Diesel #1 is more refined and better suited for cold-weather environments.
Legal and Cost Considerations
One key distinction between reefer fuel and diesel lies in their legal classification and associated costs. Reefer fuel is restricted for off-road use only and is not permitted to power vehicles on public roads. It is dyed red to clearly distinguish it from standard diesel and prevent misuse. Using reefer fuel on public roads can result in steep fines of up to $10,000 in some states.
Diesel, as an on-road fuel, incurs higher taxes to fund transportation projects. On-road diesel in the US can be taxed as much as $0.50 per gallon after state and federal taxes. In contrast, reefer fuel is tax-exempt, making it a more cost-effective option for off-road vehicles and equipment. It can also qualify for tax refunds, further reducing costs for users.
Fuel Consumption
The fuel consumption of reefer trucks depends on various factors, including the trailer insulation, ambient temperature, and overall condition of the trailer. On average, reefer trucks burn around 0.5 to 1 gallon of fuel per hour, with a maximum driving limit of 11 hours resulting in 5.5 to 11 gallons of fuel consumption for refrigeration. Some users have reported a higher fuel burn rate, with a quarter of a 50-gallon tank being consumed in 16 hours. Proper maintenance of the refrigeration system and trailer can help optimise fuel efficiency.
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Reefer fuel maintenance
Reefer fuel powers the refrigeration units attached to reefer trailers, which have their own motor and reefer fuel tank. This ensures the cargo remains at the right operational temperature, even when the truck isn't running. Reefer fuel is a specific type of diesel fuel used exclusively in off-road vehicles and is not to be used to power a vehicle's engine on a public road.
Reefer fuel usage is calculated by the hour, with most reefers using about half a gallon to a gallon of fuel every hour. The amount of reefer fuel used depends on several factors, including the trailer's manufacturer, the age of the trailer, the size of the load, and the ambient temperature in the regions driven through. Trailer insulation also affects fuel consumption.
To fill up a reefer tank, the refrigeration system needs to be temporarily turned off. The reefer tank is usually located below the trailer, but can also be in the middle, off to the side, or at the rear.
To ensure the most efficient use of reefer fuel, regular maintenance should be completed according to the manufacturer's schedule. When the refrigeration unit is not properly maintained, it works harder to maintain the right temperature, resulting in higher fuel consumption.
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Frequently asked questions
Reefer trailers use two types of fuel: one for the engine and one for the refrigeration unit. The refrigeration unit typically uses around 0.4 to 1.1 gallons of fuel per hour, depending on various factors such as the trailer's age, load, and ambient temperature.
Reefer trailers with a 50-gallon fuel tank capacity burn around 0.75 gallons of fuel per hour, so they need to be refuelled every two to four days.
To reduce fuel consumption, ensure the trailer is properly maintained and insulated. Additionally, consider the operating mode and temperature controls, as running in the wrong mode can increase fuel usage.
Several factors can contribute to high fuel consumption, including high head pressure, trailer age, load size, and improper maintenance.
Reefer trailers use a specialised type of diesel known as reefer fuel or off-road fuel, which is dyed red to distinguish it from on-road fuel. This fuel is designed to operate in colder temperatures and has a lower energy density than standard diesel.
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