The core difference
A dry van is a sealed, non-refrigerated box trailer that holds freight at outside ambient temperature. A reefer is the same enclosed trailer with a diesel- or electric-powered refrigeration unit that actively holds a set temperature — cooled, frozen, or heated — for the entire trip. The equipment looks similar from the outside; the difference is entirely in what happens to the temperature inside.
That one difference drives everything else: reefer trailers cost more to run, need fuel for the reefer unit in addition to the tractor, and require monitoring throughout transit — which is why reefer freight is priced higher than dry van on the same lane.
When dry van is the right — and cheaper — choice
If your freight is shelf-stable at room temperature and won't be damaged by normal seasonal swings in a closed trailer, dry van is almost always the better call. That covers most retail goods, packaged dry food, paper products, building materials, electronics, and general manufactured freight. Choosing dry van when you don't need refrigeration is one of the simplest ways to lower a freight bill without changing anything else about the shipment.
When reefer is actually required
Reefer is non-negotiable for perishable food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, some chemicals, and anything with a defined temperature range that can't be broken without spoiling or failing quality control. It's also worth considering — even for technically non-perishable freight — when goods are heat- or freeze-sensitive: certain adhesives, paints, cosmetics, electronics, and canned or bottled goods can be damaged by extreme heat in summer or freezing in winter. In those borderline cases, heated dry van service is sometimes a lower-cost middle ground; ask when you quote.
Comparing the cost
On the same lane, reefer typically prices higher than dry van because of the added fuel, equipment, and monitoring involved in running the refrigeration unit. The gap varies by lane and season, but it's meaningful enough that shippers moving borderline freight should always ask whether dry van (or heated dry van) is a safe option before defaulting to reefer.
Not sure which your freight needs? Tell us what you're shipping and we'll recommend the right equipment — and price both if it's genuinely a close call.
Ready to price your next load? Request a free estimate and a Shipmate specialist will respond with exact rates during business hours, or call (905) 508-6632.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my freight needs reefer or dry van?
If your freight is perishable, pharmaceutical, or has a defined temperature range, it needs reefer. If it's shelf-stable at room temperature — most retail goods, packaged dry food, building materials, electronics — dry van is the right, and cheaper, choice.
Is reefer always more expensive than dry van?
On the same lane, yes — reefer costs more due to the added fuel and equipment needed to run the refrigeration unit. The size of the gap depends on lane and season, which is why it's worth confirming your freight actually needs it.
What if my freight isn't perishable but is sensitive to heat or cold?
This is a common gray area — certain paints, adhesives, cosmetics, electronics, and canned goods can be damaged by extreme temperatures without being truly perishable. Heated dry van service is often a lower-cost option worth asking about instead of full reefer.