At Advance Transportation Systems, we are always evolving to meet the needs of our customers and lately, one area where we have been growing is Reefer LTL. Over the past several months, we have seen an increase in demand for refrigerated, less-than-truckload shipments, and we have ramped up to meet it head-on.
Now, with over 90+ qualified reefer carriers in our nationwide network and counting, we are proud to offer a growing solution that is as dependable as it is dynamic.
Whether you have been shipping temperature-controlled freight for years or are just exploring it for the first time, now is the perfect time to take a closer look at why Reefer LTL is helping businesses ship smarter, with ATS Logistics offering reliable and flexible options to optimize your supply chain.
What is Reefer LTL?
Let’s break it down.
Reefer LTL (Refrigerated Less-Than-Truckload) combines two critical logistics solutions:
- Reefer (refrigerated): A trailer or vehicle equipped with temperature control to keep products frozen, chilled, or maintained within a specified temperature range.
- LTL (less-than-truckload): Shipments that don’t require a full trailer. Multiple shippers share space and cost, creating a more efficient and cost-effective option for small-to-mid-sized freight.
Reefer LTL allows shippers to move temperature-sensitive goods without paying for unused trailer space, while still maintaining the requirements of their product. It is the perfect fit for companies with smaller, more frequent shipments or with growing distribution needs across multiple regions.
Why It Matters
Reefer LTL is not just a nice-to-have, it has become a critical supply chain solution across industries.
Here’s why:
- Smaller, more frequent orders: Shippers are moving away from bulk inventory and toward reduced, just-in-time strategies.
- Retail and grocery standards: Large chains expect consistent, timely deliveries, no matter the size.
- Perishables and pharmaceuticals: These industries require precise temperature management and strict transit times, regardless of volume.
- Consumer demand: Fresh, fast, and safe products are no longer optional, they are expected.
In today’s logistics industry, flexibility, reliability, and control are everything. Reefer LTL delivers all three, and when done right, it adds value to every step of the supply chain.
Our LTL Focus
LTL is one of ATS Logistics’ main services, and that focus is what makes our reefer LTL service truly stand out.
We are not trying to be all things to all people. We have fine-tuned our processes around efficiency, visibility, and customer-first service for LTL shippers. So, when temperature control is added in, we are not building from scratch, we are building on a strong foundation.
From detailed load planning to consistent communication, every move we make is intentional, and every shipment is treated like it matters, because it does.
The Challenges of Reefer LTL (And How We Tackle Them)
Reefer LTL is not as simple as tossing a few pallets on a cold truck. It requires coordination, technology, and tight execution. Some of the biggest challenges include:
- Temperature consistency across multiple stops
- Limited capacity, especially during produce season or holidays
- Product isolation to prevent odor transfer or contamination
- Tight delivery windows and appointment scheduling
- Increased risk of damage or spoilage if anything goes wrong
That is why experience and relationships matter. With a dedicated team, advanced TMS systems, and a growing nationwide network of vetted reefer LTL carriers, we are able to overcome those challenges, and deliver with confidence.
Who Should Be Using Reefer LTL?
This is not just for giant food companies or national grocers. If your freight needs to stay within a certain temperature range and you are not utilizing a full trailer, reefer LTL is your solution.
Typical users include:
- Specialty food and beverage producers
- Meal kit and subscription box companies
- Pharmaceutical and medical suppliers – take out?
- Floral and horticulture businesses
- Craft brewers, dairies, and regional farms
- Retailers and wholesalers with smaller regional DCs
Basically, if it melts, spoils, or requires a “best by” date, reefer LTL can help you ship smarter.
Why ATS is Succeeding in the Reefer LTL Space
Our success in this space isn’t luck, it’s strategy. ATS Logistics has been investing in the right partnerships, people, and technology to ensure our reefer LTL services are competitive, reliable, and growing.
Here’s how we stand out:
Nationwide Coverage with 90+ Reefer Carrier
We have built countless partnerships with reefer LTL carriers in the country, giving our customers access to consistent service across North America.
Tailored Service
We are not a one-size-fits-all service. From appointment scheduling to multi-stop coordination, we customize our freight solutions to fit your freight, and your customers’ needs.
Proactive Communication
With reefer freight, time and temperature are unforgiving. Our team provides real-time updates, quick responses, and peace of mind every step of the way.
Consistent Capacity
We have established long-term partnerships to secure reefer LTL capacity year-round, even during peak seasons.
Passion for Problem-Solving
Tight delivery windows, tricky lanes, or risk of rejection, we have seen it all. At ATS Logistics, solving challenges like these is what we do best. We specialize in solving problems, getting into the details, and finding the answers that keep your freight moving and your customers happy.
The Bottom Line
Reefer LTL is constantly evolving and not slowing down, and at ATS Logistics, we have the experts, the network, and the partnerships to stay ahead of it.
If you are looking for a reefer LTL partner who brings consistency, capacity, and commitment to the table, let’s talk. We are proud of how far we have come regarding Reefer LTL, and even more excited about where we are headed.
Let ATS keep your freight cool and your business moving.
Interested in learning more about our reefer LTL capabilities?
Reach out to our team today and see how ATS Logistics can build a solution that fits your freight, and your future success.