Trucking Glossary

A temperature-controlled trailer for freight such as food or pharmaceuticals. Equipment may cool and, on some units, heat. Confirm the setpoint, operating mode, and power arrangements using the shipment instructions and equipment manual.

The target temperature entered into a refrigeration controller. It is not the measured cargo temperature and does not guarantee uniform temperature throughout the trailer. A correct setpoint alone does not establish acceptable cargo temperature.

Preparing a trailer or product to a specified temperature before loading; clarify which is being cooled.

Cleaning of a trailer interior; sanitation and documentation requirements depend on prior cargo and the next shipment.

A refrigeration mode involving continuous operation, commonly to maintain airflow; exact behavior depends on the unit.

A mode that automatically stops and restarts a refrigeration unit under its control logic. Names and behavior vary by manufacturer.

An internal product temperature measurement, especially in produce handling, distinct from air readings or the set point.

Air delivered from the refrigeration unit into the cargo space; its temperature is not a direct product measurement.

Air returning from the cargo space to the unit. Its temperature describes part of the airflow, not every product.

A duct or structure directing air through a refrigerated trailer. Damage or obstruction can affect circulation.

A cycle that removes frost from the evaporator. Its duration and controls depend on the refrigeration unit.

A device that stores temperature readings over time, also called a data logger. Sensor placement affects what the record represents.