A refrigerated trailer — often called a reefer trailer — gives you large, mobile cold storage wherever you need it. The main choice is how the refrigeration unit is powered: diesel or electric.
Diesel refrigerated trailers
A diesel refrigerated trailer has its own diesel-powered refrigeration unit, so it doesn't need outside power.
Best for:
- Remote job sites, farms and oilfield locations
- Events and outdoor venues without a suitable power supply
- Produce harvests and temporary storage away from buildings
Keep in mind: the unit runs on fuel, which needs to be topped up, and it makes engine noise while running.
Electric refrigerated trailers
An electric refrigerated trailer plugs into shore power — usually a three-phase connection (460V is most common, and some units also run on 208–230V) — instead of running a diesel engine. Tell us what power you have and we'll confirm it matches the unit.
Best for:
- Restaurants, grocery stores and food distributors next to a building with the right power
- Indoor-adjacent or urban sites where noise matters
- Long-term cold storage where lower running costs add up
Keep in mind: you need a suitable power connection on site. If you don't have one, a generator or a diesel unit may be the better choice.
Quick comparison
- Power — diesel: self-contained; electric: needs shore power
- Noise — diesel: engine noise; electric: quieter
- Running cost — diesel: fuel; electric: usually lower operating cost
- Best location — diesel: anywhere; electric: next to a building with power
What about a refrigerated container?
A refrigerated container sits at ground level like a storage container, so it's easy to walk in and load by hand. It's a strong choice for stationary cold storage at a business or event. Read our guide to temporary cold storage rental.
Get the right reefer
Tell us what you're storing, the temperature you need, where it's going and whether power is available. Call 580-226-7811 or request a free quote.
