PSA for Non-Reefers
Posted by Ok-Bar5260@reddit | Truckers | View on Reddit | 104 comments
Please stop shutting off our refrigerator when you think we’re asleep. I have a very loud alarm that I transfer trailer to trailer for events like this. I wake up every time.
Aside that fact, we carry expensive food products, chemicals, and so on. Sometimes those chemicals are refrigerated to keep them from destroying the parking lot due to their corrosive behaviors, some are unstable and may be more than a melted trailer.
Yes, the engine is louder and more obnoxious than a typical idle. I try to park away from everyone, but that didn’t stop one of you at the Greater I-55 truck stop. By the way, you were on camera, the whole time. I watched you walk around your truck and turn off the trailer, which is in the least one felony considering this load is worth more than both of our trailers.
Stay safe out there, to the rest of the drivers out here.
derpmcturd@reddit
This kind of stuff has to be a manufacturer oversight or something. Why not simple put a tiny little loop hole in the protective plastic/glass screen window that is on top of the control panel, which would allow a simple padlock to be put through it so noone can access the panel?
Its 1st grade stuff that manufacturers didnt do that always has me worried.
Tru3insanity@reddit
The power button for carrier reefers isnt on the panel and thermoking reefers dont have a cover at all.
Roughrdr@reddit
Depending on how the unit was specced, the on/off button can be hidden and have to use the toggle on the panel. Half our carriers have no visible button, it's up inside the unit itself hidden behind the door near the panel.
Drak3l@reddit
Not sure if all carriers are the same way, but our power buttons are wired up at a convenient chest/neck height, and is straight up on the corner of the nose.. Absolutely hate it. Got a little close to a tree while parking, and a branch smacked the button and shut down the reefer.
Have had pure hatred for the location ever since. I'm always paranoid about how easy somebody could just casually smack it while walking by.
Legs181@reddit
Yes but there are plenty that bolt onto the panels and cover the HMI. In Australia just about all trailers carrying medical supplies have them.
Thepopethroway@reddit
These trailers were designed when we had a high-trust society where you didn't have to be constantly anxious and on-guard 24/7.
mxracer888@reddit
It's probably required to be accessible for emergency situations. But idk
Junior-Credit2685@reddit
THIS! Our refers get turned off periodically and it causes all kinds of problems. We have taken to literally screwing in a bent piece of sheet metal on it for the duration of our break/lot storage. Some of these loads are $800k plus! And worse- food that people need! I’m always saying…how the fuck did this get manufactured this way? This is 2025! We can read license plates from space and send packages by drone but I can’t get an alarm to my phone or a locked control panel?
ignoreme010101@reddit
you can for sure, I dunno the software but if my temp goes out of range too far my dispatch calls so I know that controller is sending info (actually i even have remote access to my temp, just not an ability to set any alarms only my dispatch has something that triggers alarm)
Junior-Credit2685@reddit
Thanks! I will look into it more. We tried that with our dispatch but she was getting emails every 5 minutes so we stopped with that. Maybe it’s a different network.
ChernobylFleshlight0@reddit
While I’m sure it’s still a few years away, there is a tech company that is working with a few of the big reefer manufacturing companies to develop a type of “lock/alarm” system. I saw a demo of it at a trade show. Basically, you’d get a code for the trailer that would allow you to change the password. The codes are entered via the directional buttons like “⬆️⬆️⬇️⬆️⬇️" and an incorrect code sets off a fairly loud alarm. I definitely thought it was cool. It had some satellite connectivity too that would give the fleets access to being able to turn it off/on remotely. My only concern was how they'd handle drop and hooks because some customers want to be able to turn it off/on and if they don't know the pin then idk how that would work. I'm sure that satellite connectivity option would work or they'd possibly put a phone number they could call to get the code but I wasn't sure!
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
I would love to see this alarm system! I have the remote to mine laying next to my head every night, so if one isn’t properly functioning I can always have a backup.
ChernobylFleshlight0@reddit
I saw it at the Technology and Maintenance Counsil ATA conference. It was cool, but a lot of those companies are still trying to get investors (which is why they're there) so who knows if they actually have a go-to-market date. I do think though that when they reach that point all the major reefer hauling companies will just on it so quick. I don't know any who wouldn't want it.
ShaggyAssassin@reddit
Yo that shit is some great white noise to pass out to, but I will admit I hate waking up new to a reefer
bloodsoed@reddit
Messing with someone’s reefer is just like cutting a flat bedders straps. Both will end up with an ass whipping if caught.
shhhdidyousmellthat@reddit
It's also called "interfering with interstate commerce" which, by the way, is a felony.
Potential_Walk3839@reddit
felony yes but federal offense much worse
byodinsbeard91@reddit
If I'm not mistaken, interfering with interstate commerce could be viewed as an act of domestic terrorism in certain circumstances.
totesmygto@reddit
That's only for Democrats or drivers in blue states.
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
Definitely not the political side of things, that’s a UN rule. I drive HazMat, and shutting off my reefer with certain unstable chemicals could kill hundreds of people. Especially if it’s flammable or explosive only regulated by temp.
MedTactics@reddit
With certain hazmat, if a certain quantity/weight is messed with, it pretty much says potential terrorism concern in the safety sheet under Security Issue: EXP/IEDP
Technical-Flow7748@reddit
Federal felony did time in a federal prison w someone who had these charges he was a fukin idiot can confirm
functional_moron@reddit
Im too out of shape to start any fights. But I have a co2 powered bb gun and if I caught someone turning off my reefer I have no problem pelting someone with extremely painful tiny steel balls.
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
Might as well have grabbed the bolt cutters and just stole some stuff off the trailer. Either way they’re on camera, because the customer paid extra for the security of the load.
BitingBlush@reddit
Honestly people way overblow how the reefer thing. Drivers all over the country are sleeping just fine with that thing right behind their head.
No-Distribution1672@reddit
I can’t imagine touching another drivers equipment. Regardless of what they did. Wow. I saw someone say to turn the reefer off when it parks next to you but I took that as just a joke.
East_History1325@reddit
Hope you catch them, get them arrested and hang their CDL on your mantel
ignoreme010101@reddit
yeah im wondering if this isnt fan-fic, I mean if someone touches your gear they could just as easily pull your 5th wheel release, he said he got them on cam and they obviously did this to go fall asleep right beside him so it is very hard to understand why cops weren't on site very quickly (it's one thing whem you call "I just need a police report", it's another when the perp is still on site ready to get arrested lol)
East_History1325@reddit
I see your point. The lack of details would make this seem more of a karma farming post than a real call out.
On the other hand, we work in an industry that attracts the most “interesting” people; The kid who was ice picking tires, 5th wheels pulled at pumps, 45 mph in the middle lane of the interstate, early morning hit and runs at the truck stop, hardcore conspiracy theorists etc etc
OP, a follow up would be great.
ignoreme010101@reddit
I mean, there are loonies automatically because it's one of the more common professions so just the sheer #'s, then factor in self-selecting for solo work and yup a lot of crazy folk!!!
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
What kind of follow up we talking?
DaSaw@reddit
A copy of the police report.
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
I didn’t file it with police. Took it straight to our offices and they’ve been handling through the day.
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
More like a warning that I emailed their company and my own with the video.
ScaryfatkidGT@reddit
I don’t understand reefer boise hate… it’s no different than being next to the interstate or next to someone idling…
ignoreme010101@reddit
if you're not used to it it can be very annoying, also some units are old or operating real rough and are very annoying (i say that as someone who sleeps better with my reefer on than off lol)
DaSaw@reddit
Worst is when the belt is... wrong, somehow... and it squeaks loudly every time it starts
ignoreme010101@reddit
I hope such units are driven by ppl who at least try isolating them when able (usually not much choice, of course, but happens often enough ill be in the middle of nowhere and find myself in a sparsely populated lot with just a few flatbeds and dry vans, will always park away from them!)
MyOwnChemicalRomance@reddit
I never have gotten it either. Sleep like a baby next to them.
StolenRage@reddit
Former reefer puller here. I miss the noise and sleep better next to a reefer.
Lost-Astronaut-8280@reddit
YouTube search history: “reefer trailer white noise 10hr”
fmccloud@reddit
The problem with the reefer boys is if you choose to park at the empty far side of the parking lot,, a reefer will park directly next to you. Like not even 3-4 spots away.
United_News3779@reddit
Yup. A guy did this to me last month. An empty business parking (old equipment dealership) with maybe 5 acres of paved lot. Motherfucker parks beside me, pulled up a little in relation to my truck, so that his reefer is beside my (open) bunk window lol it was the loudest, most rattley reefer I've ever heard.
TickletheEther@reddit
I always felt bad having a -10 deg F load with a squeaky belt.
ignoreme010101@reddit
why not address that then? I sleep better with my reefer but every now and then ill have to move in the middle of the night because someone next to me has a unit that is just problematically loud/erratic/annoying
TickletheEther@reddit
I was a company driver and typically our loads were drop and hook so it's hit or miss what condition the trail was in
Aggressive-Oil173@reddit
Whoever that driver is has the attitude of a toddler and i hope you called to authorities
Tutorele@reddit
Funnily enough I actually liked sleeping next to reefers too. Nice white noise, never bothered me at all. Feel like if such things bother ya, trucking isnt the problem, you probably are
FrogMac@reddit
I have tinnitus. The white noise from a reefer helps me sleep
SnakeandNape5000@reddit
8 years working around F/A-18 Hornets plus 4 deployments on aircraft carriers. I can sleep through anything.
Tutorele@reddit
Sometimes when I was in especially quiet Park spots I would actively put on truck stop white noise through my speakers just so that I can have a little bit more, don't have tinnitus but I do enjoy a little bit of consistent noise. Granted I may be a little bit unhinged with some of the White Noise I listen to at times, I've done video game War Ambience before sometimes too cuz I find it oddly relaxing 🤷♂️
delectable-mango77@reddit
I’ve never once in my life thought I can’t get some rest because of a reefer or even trucks running near me. Get used to it. Crazy people man. Be safe n
K424n310F@reddit
Any companies in SoCal that handle reefer chemical loads?
firstblush73@reddit
If you think my reefer is loud, park on my passenger side and enjoy my APU. They compete for singing the song of our people. 🤣
This is why I always try and nab a corner with the APU side out, away from folks, or hit up the curbside parking. Some of us arent being lazy, merely considerate.
Sad_Thought_4642@reddit
That thing's just got a straight pipe for an exhaust, right?
firstblush73@reddit
Yes, it is god awful loud. I have no idea why. Everyone else's APU seems to be quiet. Mine sounds like a badly tuned junkyard truck.
Sad_Thought_4642@reddit
Sounds like it's time for a custom exhaust with a big muffler.
firstblush73@reddit
Company driver, no alterations allowed. 🥲
Current_Young7961@reddit
Reminds me of dennis the menace, stick a little needle in the button but obviously use some tweezers to remove it when you have to mess with it. 😂😂
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
As much as I think it would be hilarious, booby trapping is illegal, and then I get in big trouble instead 😂
Current_Young7961@reddit
This world is crazy. There is more opportunity/law given to commit a crime than prevent one. To me thats protecting the cargo lol but thanks for educating me that such method is called booby trapping. People were using a part of my yard as a walk through and i definitely planned to put some trip wires in the path…. Glad i didnt now lol.
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
If you do, there needs to be clear and visible signage of what kind of traps you have. Now, on another note, plant some endangered species there, and then you can have people fined for doing it.
GoingNutCracken@reddit
A trucker who screws around with another trucker’s load is not a trucker. That’s an “I’m out here for me and I don’t give a shit about anyone else” piece of shit.
IIWRussellWayne@reddit
Which, let’s be real, is about 95% of the idiots on 18 wheels we have out here. Absolutely embarrassing
soupsandwich00@reddit
I never understood the fuss about reefers being loud. I've slept in between two reefers several times and it wasn't any louder than the truck idling.
zerothefallen66@reddit
Things like this are why we won’t be taken seriously or be able to strike for more money I feel. Nobody hates truckers more than truckers these days and I’m so sorry this happened to you.
BadamPshh@reddit
I've never ever had this happen lol. Not to mention if someone can't handle reefer noise, this is just the wrong industry. Every truck stop is a chorus of engines reefers and apu's.
I find it soothing at this point, not sure i'd be able to sleep back in the world.
jaylew1981@reddit
Do drivers really do this?????? My mind is blown right now! The thought of someone turning off a reefer that isn't theirs is sooooo wild to me.
MajorHymen@reddit
One reason I’m glad I night drive. I’m sleeping during the day so a lot less likely to be surrounded by drivers sleeping id lose my shit if someone did this
Big_AL_67890@reddit
I'm a regional reefer driver and I am thankful that no one has shut my refer off on me (yet) in the few months that I've been doing it. But OP you mentioned an alarm? I'm just wondering what kind of alarm that would be and where to get it. Just in case
xoutlawtrucker@reddit
I pulled reefer for years and it never happened to me, or wasnt even a afterthought. If he is saying it happened multiple times to a point that he needs to invest in a alarm, I am thinking maybe he should look into having his muffler checked.
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
The Alarm is for any reason it may shut down.
xoutlawtrucker@reddit
I completely understand the need for a alarm. But your initial post made it sound like this is a frequent event, and you ever said yourself that its louder than most reefer units. I would get the exhaust serviced and look into a better muffler. I understand the need for reefers, and the noise they make. But if its obnoxiously loud, maybe there is a problem that can be fixed/remedied.
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
It’s an older unit I am currently hauling. Not by choice. It’s been updated, but the original exhaust point is still on there. The muffle isn’t the best in the world.
xoutlawtrucker@reddit
I know how bad rates are right now (even for reefer) and costs are up. But if its interfering with your sleep, and the sleep of others its become a safety issue for a multitude of reasons. I would fix/service it, or demand your employer does. If a air horn was stuck all night the fix would happen pretty quick, this is just not as severe .
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
It’s not a huge issue, in my opinion. When the high RPM kicks in is when I get the living daylights scared out of me at random. It definitely needs a better muffler though.
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
The one my previous company got is made by OMEGA. Idk any specific model
Cfwydirk@reddit
Secure your on off switch.
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
No way to secure it. Simple “on/off” button below the control panel, and then the choke switch.
mvamv@reddit
Might not be a bad idea to buy a toggle switch lockout device. I've never had anyone turn off the reefer on me during my 10hr break in my years hauling refrigerated goods, it's wild for me to believe people really selfish enough to spoil perishables or ruin certain chemicals.
Immediate_Regular@reddit
I've seen dudes turn off reefers, unhook airlines, try and yank king pin releases, among other shady/dangerous/stupid stunts. Hell there's this asshole. I wouldn't be surprised if this glue eater graduated to worse behavior.
mvamv@reddit
I believe the airlines and kingpin latch, but fucking with reefers is a whole nother level. You're not just messing with the equipment, you're messing with a customers product... And depending on what that product is, that's a real expensive claim...
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
More money than his company pays him in a year. Hell, more money than MINE pays me. Part of why I have the alarm 😂
FlatbedtruckingCA@reddit
Damn!
ignoreme010101@reddit
I mean, where's the rest of the story? Surely you got the police involved if the dude interfered with your equipment and retreated to his tractor right beside you?
literally never heard of this b4, my god I would go ape shit if someone touched my trailer but, having been beside some INSANELY loud trailers, the idea I could turn it off w/o the person knowing just seems incomprehensible to me...
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
Emailed his company and my own with a copy of the video, I am letting administration handle it since he only did it once and didn’t prevent me from turning it back on
Row30@reddit
It’s actually an act of vandalism to turn someone’s refer off.
ignoreme010101@reddit
yeah I have a lot of suspicion why the cops arent part of this story, for all you know they also touched safety critical gear and obviously the perp is still on-site, very hard to imagine cops wouldn't show up (and make an arrest i mean OP said he had camera lol)
Ok-Bar5260@reddit (OP)
With the alarm monitor, if issues like this happen, we try to take the civil route if we know a driver’s company. If it escalates to them preventing me from turning it on, or we don’t know which truck the driver came from, then we call the cops. This being the 8th time it has happened within our company since I started, that I know of.
ChoneFiggins4Lyfe@reddit
As the old saying goes, if you don’t like trucks, quit buying stuff.
Well, if you don’t like reefers, quit buying refrigerated products.
VigilantThinker@reddit
They don’t think like that. They just care about themselves
CrispyLuggage@reddit
Drove reefer for 13 years. Parked away from everyone when possible, but half the time I had no choice.
I've never had this happen.
Hydra_Kitt@reddit
Honestly as someone who pulled Reefer for 3 years, I never had this issue but I did worry EVERY single night about it. Imo its worse than pulling the fifth wheel handle. Some people think the world revolves around them but the truth is we're all trying to do our jobs. Im not fucking with you, dont fuck with me.
Additional_Look3148@reddit
Only a truck driver would do this kind of stuff.
scorge99@reddit
When I ran reefer, I was trained to wake up as soon as that motor shut off, and would jump up to see what’s going on. Glad no one did that to me. Hate to have to whoop someone’s ass half asleep. Be safe driver.
ChampionshipThin8916@reddit
Had some swap mine off continuous mode one time. Luckily not off so far.
EscapeWestern9057@reddit
On chemicals there's some chemicals that will spontaneously ignite and spew extremely toxic gasses if allowed to warm up above basically freezing. You could literally be causing a massive catastrophe on the level of terrorism by killing a refer.
GayRedneck1@reddit
I don't get the "trailer racism" is what I call it. Doesn't matter what type of trailer you haul, we are all needed to make this industry work. You can't haul frozen goods on a flatbed, and you can't haul equipment in a reefer. Thanks for coming to my ted talk
Troubador222@reddit
That's about as low as at gets. There's no place in this business for someone turning off a reefer.
azurasstarship@reddit
I don't get it. It's not like a running reefer is a siren or loud music blasting. I sleep better with a running motor nearby. It's like a soothing lullaby.
HowlingWolven@reddit
If you try to shut off my fridge, just know that you’re human garbage that hates steak and bacon, because that’s what I carry all the damn time.
Wide-Engineering-396@reddit
Jump out with your sidearm and announce citizens arrested,
SeaRow556@reddit
I mean if its bad enough to melt the trailer then it's bad enough to cause significant bodily injury. It's still mind-boggling that it wasn't placard. Also I'd have to say that its concerning you dont have redundancies in place to prevent a catastrophic environmental emergency in the event the reefer fails. And why isn't it shipped in appropriate containers to contain the hazard? Like if its a boiling point issue then that should be addressed and not rely solely on a primitive cooling system such as a reefer trailer.
Independent-Fun8926@reddit
I never had any mess with my reefer, thank goodnes. People are scumbags