· Reference Entry

reefer cargo

/ˈriːfə ˈkɑːɡəʊ/
/ˈriːfər ˈkɑːrɡoʊ/
noun reef-er car-go

Goods that require temperature-controlled transportation, such as perishable foods, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals.

Published 2026-10-04 Category: Reviewed by Alex Grant, Editor-in-Chief
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01

Definitions #

Goods that require temperature-controlled transportation, such as perishable foods, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals.

Technical Cargo that must be carried in a refrigerated container or transport mode to maintain a specific ambient condition, often subject to cold chain integrity requirements.

Example The reefer cargo of fresh blueberries requires a temperature set point of 0°C and high ventilation.

02

Etymology #

From 'reefer' (refrigerated container) and 'cargo' (goods carried in a vessel or vehicle).

03

Collocations #

  • perishable reefer cargo 易腐冷藏货物
  • dangerous reefer cargo 危险品冷藏货物(如某些化学品)
  • reefer cargo booking 冷藏货物订舱
04

Real Business Examples #

  1. The reefer cargo of fresh blueberries requires a temperature set point of 0°C and high ventilation.
  2. The port's reefer cargo statistics show a 10% increase in pharmaceutical transshipments this quarter.
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05

Register & Variants #

  • Register: neutral
  • BrE/AmE: 全球通用
06

Synonyms & Antonyms #

  • Synonyms: temperature-controlled cargo, refrigerated goods
  • Antonyms: general cargo, dry cargo
07

Common Errors #

  • Assuming all reefer cargo is perishable food Reefer cargo can be pharmaceuticals, electronics, or chemicals requiring temperature control, not just food.
  • Not specifying ventilation and humidity requirements These are critical for many reefer cargoes and must be included in the shipping instructions.
08

Confusable Terms #

refrigerated container vs reefer cargo
A reefer container is the equipment; reefer cargo is the contents carried inside.
09

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common types of reefer cargo??

Fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, seafood, dairy, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.

Does reefer cargo require special documentation??

Yes, often a temperature requirement certificate and sometimes a phytosanitary certificate for certain products.

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Published: 2026-10-04 Category: