REFRIGERATED TRAILER

Why refrigerated trailers need tracking

Reefer trailers are high-value, frequently detached from the tractor, and carry loads that are sensitive to time and temperature. Cold chain trailer tracking gives visibility into whether a trailer is moving as planned, parked where it should be, or has been left disconnected from power longer than intended. It also supports recovery if a loaded trailer is stolen, which is a real risk given the value of both the trailer and its cargo.

• Location visibility whether the trailer is attached or standing alone
• Alerts on unexpected stops, detours, or extended idle time
• Theft and recovery support for high-value refrigerated units
• History logs useful for proving delivery timing and route compliance

How to choose a tracker for a reefer trailer

Power source is the first decision. If the trailer has its own battery or access to the cooling unit's power, a wired tracker such as the Teltonika FMC234, which is waterproof and 4G, is a solid fit for exposed trailer mounting. The Teltonika FMB130 is built for alarm scenarios, useful where unauthorized trailer movement itself needs to trigger an alert. For trailers without easy power access, the Teltonika TAT140 4G works as a battery-backed backup tracker, continuing to report even when disconnected from the tractor. Where the trailer's electronics expose useful data, the Teltonika FMB140 with CanBUS can read additional signals. Mounting needs to account for the trailer's metal body and exposure to weather, so waterproof housings matter more here than on most vehicle categories.

Installation and the subscription

Installation on a refrigerated trailer typically means securing the tracker to the chassis or inside a weatherproof compartment, with wiring to the trailer's own power system where available, or relying on internal battery where it is not. Our installers can advise on the right placement given the specific trailer layout.

Every tracker is connected to Entopizo's own platform through our own SIM card on a subscription, which includes live location updates, geofence and movement alerts, trip and stop history, and access from both web and mobile apps. Buyers searching for a tracker without a subscription should understand what that gives up: the GPS hardware can determine its position, but without an active SIM and platform behind it, that position goes nowhere, so there is no live map, no alerts, and no stored history. Our subscription keeps the data flowing and the support team available if something needs checking.

Real use cases

A cold chain distributor tracks a fleet of reefer trailers across regional routes, confirming delivery windows are met and flagging unplanned stops. A logistics company with detachable trailers uses battery-backed tracking to monitor units sitting in a yard between loads, without needing the tractor connected. A trailer leasing business uses location history to confirm mileage and usage patterns reported by lessees.

Frequently asked questions

Can a refrigerated trailer be tracked when it is detached from the tractor?

Yes, with a battery-backed tracker such as the Teltonika TAT140 4G, the trailer keeps reporting location even while sitting disconnected.

Does the tracker monitor the cooling unit's temperature?

Some models can read additional data where the trailer's own electronics expose it, such as through CanBUS; the exact signals available depend on the trailer's wiring.

What does a reefer trailer tracker without a subscription actually offer?

Only the hardware itself; without an active SIM and platform there is no live tracking, no alerts, and no history, since the device has no way to send its data anywhere.

How is the tracker protected from weather on an exposed trailer?

Models such as the Teltonika FMC234 are waterproof, and our installers choose mounting positions that add further protection from direct exposure.