“Reefer Uptime” measures the proportion of time that a refrigerated container’s refrigeration unit is operational and maintaining the required temperature set-point during the transport or storage period. It is critical because any unplanned downtime exposes perishable cargo to risk of quality loss, spoilage, or regulatory non-compliance. High uptime indicates reliable equipment, robust power infrastructure, and good preventive maintenance; conversely, low uptime signals risk, higher costs and potential service failures. Monitoring uptime helps operators benchmark reliability and drive continuous improvement. Reference
The “Alarm Rate” KPI records the number of refrigeration unit alarms (e.g., temperature excursion, power failure, sensor fault) per container or per unit time relative to the fleet size. A high alarm rate suggests system instability, inadequate monitoring, faulty sensors, or poor operational practice. It serves as a leading indicator of potential cargo risk or maintenance issues. Reducing alarm rate improves cargo integrity, lowers intervention costs, and strengthens customer confidence. Reference
“Energy Use per TEU” for reefers measures the electrical (or fuel, in genset cases) consumption of the refrigeration unit per twenty-foot equivalent container (TEU) over a defined period or trip. Benchmarking it is important because reefers are energy-intensive assets; lower energy consumption per TEU means improved operational cost, enhanced sustainability (lower CO₂ emissions) and competitive advantage. By comparing against industry averages or internal targets, operators can identify inefficient units or practices. Reference
MTBF is the average operational time between equipment failures, here applied to the refrigeration unit of the container. For reefers, recording MTBF helps quantify reliability: a longer MTBF means fewer breakdowns and service outages. Identifying MTBF across the fleet allows benchmarking of different unit models, predicting maintenance budgets, and improving spare-parts planning. It also helps track improvements over time as upgrades or improvements are implemented. Reference
The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is a measure of how much cooling output is delivered per unit of power input (for a given ambient condition). In reefer operations, a higher EER means the refrigeration unit is doing more cooling for less power. Benchmarking EER across models, fleets, and ambient conditions helps identify sub-optimal units and drive asset renewal decisions. It supports sustainability goals and lower operating expenses. Reference
“Alarm Response Time” tracks the elapsed time from alarm trigger (e.g., temperature excursion, power off) to corrective action taken. It indicates how quickly operations can respond to issues and, therefore, how well they protect cargo. Short response times reduce the window of risk for perishable goods. This KPI is particularly relevant in high-value or sensitive cargo (pharma, seafood), where even short deviations matter. Reference
“Energy Cost per Hour of Operation” quantifies the cost of running a reefer refrigeration unit per operational hour (taking into account power rate, fuel if applicable, and idle time). It helps operators understand true operating expense, identify cost-heavy vessels/routes, and evaluate cost savings from improved insulation, optimised set-points, or modern unit replacements. It complements energy-use metrics by adding financial context. Reference
Benchmarking uses data from similar fleets, routes, ambient conditions and durations to establish realistic energy consumption targets (e.g., kWh per day or per TEU). These targets become KPI benchmarks — e.g., “units should consume less than X kWh per day under condition Y”. With targets defined, performance deviations become actionable. Benchmarking ensures targets are meaningful, not arbitrary. Reference
“Reefer Plug Point Utilisation Rate” measures the percentage of available reefer power connections (on ships, terminals, yards) that are actually in use over time. High utilisation indicates efficient infrastructure use and minimal idle reefers. This metric correlates with uptime, because inequitable plug access or over-demand may cause containers to run without power or be unusable — thereby impacting uptime and cargo risk. Reference
“Temperature Excursion Frequency” counts the number of temperature deviation events (beyond allowed tolerance) per 1,000 container-days (or per trip) in a fleet. It is calculated as (number of excursions) ÷ (total container-days) × 1,000. It serves as a direct measure of cold-chain integrity. A high frequency flag systemic issues (unit reliability, power supply, loading practices) and is a powerful KPI for quality assurance and customer trust. Reference
“Energy Use per kg of Cargo” normalises energy consumption by actual payload, offering a deeper insight than per unit metrics. It reflects how efficiently container capacity is utilised, how well it was packed (airflow, load density), and equipment performance. Benchmarking this KPI helps link operational behaviour (load plan, packing) with energy outcomes, empowering more informed decisions. While less commonly published, leading operators are adopting it for fine-grained analysis. Reference
Leading KPIs (like alarm rate, response time, plug point utilisation) provide early warning of potential issues, enabling preventive action. Lagging KPIs (like actual downtime, energy consumed, and extent of excursions) reflect realised outcomes. For robust benchmarking, a mix is required: leading indicators to drive improvement and lagging indicators to validate results. The combination supports continuous improvement, aligns with performance management best practices, and enables meaningful benchmarking. Reference
Reefer Runner provides container terminals with a wireless, plug-and-play system that enables continuous monitoring and management of refrigerated (‘reefer’) containers. It captures real-time temperature, power status, energy readings, alarms and performance metrics, displaying them in a TOS-integrated dashboard. This enhances visibility, minimises manual intervention, reduces the likelihood of damage or claims, raises safety levels and supports regulatory compliance.
Reefer Runner by Identec Solutions
The container re-utilisation rate measures the proportion of time a reefer unit is actively employed carrying cargo relative to its available time (whether idle, parked or blocked). For reefer fleets, a high utilisation rate means the equipment investment is being leveraged effectively, reducing unit idle costs and increasing return on assets. It also signals good coordination of cargo flows, minimal downtime and efficient repositioning. Low utilisation indicates either oversupply, poor scheduling or infrastructure bottlenecks, driving higher per-container cost. Benchmarking this metric helps asset owners optimise fleet size and deployment. Reference
Plug-Occupancy Rate refers to the percentage of available reefer power connections (electric sockets/receptacles designated for reefers) that are occupied by connected, powered containers over a given time period. It is critical because the availability of plug-points is a constraint for reefer operations — if plugs are scarce or occupied by idle reefers, loading and dispatch get delayed, risking uptime. Monitoring this KPI helps terminal operators identify whether plug infrastructure is under- or over-utilised, and inform investment or reassignment decisions. Reference
Average Idle Time between Voyages tracks the average duration a reefer spends idle (not moving cargo) between transits or trips. It matters because idle time is a cost centre — the reefer still incurs depreciation, maintenance, power readiness and yard/port occupancy while not generating revenue. Minimising idle time improves asset productivity and lowers cost per trip. This KPI, combined with utilisation rate, gives a fuller view of operational efficiency. Reference
“Trips per Container per Year” measures how many successful cargo movements (trips) a reefer completes annually. This KPI captures both utilisation intensity and operational cycle efficiency (fast turnarounds, minimal downtime). A higher number of trips indicates good rotation, scheduling and asset usage. For reefer operators, knowing the target number of trips per unit helps in forecasting fleet size, maintenance needs and revenue per container. Underperforming units may signal scheduling, infrastructure or equipment issues. Reference
Plug-Connection Delay measures the elapsed time between a reefer arriving in the yard (or vessel) and being connected to its plug point with power and operational status. It is valuable because every minute of delay adds to container dwell time, increases the risk of malfunction (if power is delayed), and reduces effective utilisation. Monitoring this helps yard/terminal managers identify bottlenecks (plug availability, personnel, procedures) and improve handling flows. Reference
Effective Powered Time is the cumulative hours during which each reefer container is connected to power (plugged-in), operational and carrying cargo. It differs from total clock hours because it excludes idle/maintenance periods. For KPI management, effective powered time is the denominator for other metrics like energy consumption per hour or per TEU. It enables benchmarking of equipment usage intensity and supports cost allocation per hour of operation. Reference
“Gross Plug-Utilisation Rate” looks at plug points occupied, regardless of whether the connected reefers are fully operational or loaded. “Net Utilisation Rate” narrows this to plug points occupied by reefers that are actively carrying cargo and power-connected. The difference (gross minus net) reveals wasted plug capacity (e.g., reefers plugged but empty, under maintenance or awaiting cargo). This matters because plug infrastructure is costly and a limited resource; effective use supports throughput and reduces standby costs. Reference
This KPI tracks the time from when a reefer container is unplugged (after finishing a trip) to when it begins its next cargo movement (plug-in for next trip). Short turnaround indicates efficient repositioning, cleaning, maintenance and assignment processes. It reduces idle inventory and improves utilisation. Delays often indicate inefficient logistics handover, maintenance bottlenecks or yard congestion. Monitoring this KPI supports asset-flow optimisation in reefer operations. Reference
Idle Plug Duration tracks how long a plug point remains occupied by a reefed container that is not actively loaded, under maintenance or awaiting assignment. It reflects wasted asset time and plug infrastructure occupation, tying to costs (electricity, space, depreciation). Minimising this duration improves throughput and reduces cost per active cargo. It complements KPIs on utilisation and plug occupancy by revealing unseen inefficiencies. Reference
This KPI measures the share of reefers arriving at port, yard or ship in a condition ready to be plugged in immediately (cleaned, pre-cooled, and maintenance done). A high percentage means minimal time waiting for conditioning, hence quicker utilisation. Low readiness rates indicate delays due to PTIs, cleaning or maintenance, and reduced plug occupancy efficiency. This KPI embodies pre-trip readiness and affects overall utilisation and throughput. Reference
This KPI takes each model’s actual active cargo hours and divides by its total available hours (including idle/maintenance). It provides a model-specific utilisation efficiency measure, useful for comparing older vs newer models or standard vs premium reefers. If one model has a significantly higher ratio, it may justify further investment or fleet reallocation. It helps fleet managers make decisions about retirement, replacement or redeployment of units. Reference
Looking for a dependable, low-effort way to monitor your refrigerated containers? An automated system with a unified dashboard may be exactly what you need. Reefer Runner provides a simple, scalable monitoring and management solution built for container terminals.
Reefer Runner by Identec Solutions
The “Temperature Deviation Rate” measures the proportion of time (or number of hours) that a reefer container’s internal cargo temperature lies outside its designated tolerance band (set-point ± allowable variance) during a trip or period. It’s a critical KPI because even small deviations can compromise cargo quality (e.g., perishables, pharmaceuticals), lead to spoilage claims and undermine cold-chain integrity. Monitoring this KPI allows operators to detect systemic issues such as inadequate insulation, power interruptions or poor loading practices, and to benchmark fleet performance. Reference
“Average Power Consumption per Trip” calculates the total energy (kWh) used by the refrigeration unit of a container during a full trip, divided by the number of trips or containers. It helps determine the energy efficiency of operations, enabling comparison across routes, equipment models and ambient conditions. Lower values suggest better insulation, efficient units, good load planning and minimal idle time. When benchmarked, this KPI supports cost reduction and sustainability goals. Reference
“Temperature Deviation Hours per Container” tracks the number of hours a container’s internal temperature was outside the acceptable range during a voyage. It gives a quantifiable measure of cold-chain failure exposure. By tracking this across the fleet, operators can identify high-risk containers, routes or terminals and prioritise corrective action or maintenance. Frequent deviations correlate with cargo claims or loss. Reference
“Time to Set-Point after Plug-in” measures how long it takes a reefer container to stabilise at its prescribed internal temperature once it’s plugged in and loaded. Faster times reflect good equipment condition, correct preconditioning, and efficient yard processes. Longer times may signal insulation issues, load blocking of airflow or power supply problems. Reducing this time reduces the risk of temperature excursion and energy waste. Reference
“Idle Power Consumption per Hour” tracks power drawn by reefers when they are powered but not actively cooling or carrying cargo (e.g., waiting, plugged-in at yard). It matters because idle consumption is wasted cost and increases carbon footprint. By measuring and benchmarking this KPI, operators can implement plug management, power-off idle units, or schedule usage to reduce standby energy. Reference
“Energy Consumption per Ambient Degree” measures how much additional energy a reefer uses for each degree increase in ambient temperature (over a baseline). It enables benchmarking of units and routes under varying environmental conditions. A lower value indicates better insulation and efficiency. This KPI helps operators control for ambient variation when comparing performance. Reference
“Temperature Recovery Time after Door Opening” measures how long the reefer takes to return to set-point after the container door is opened for loading/unloading. Shorter recovery time indicates effective refrigeration, airflow design and minimal warm air ingress. Long recovery times mean energy waste and a higher risk of spoilage. It’s an actionable KPI to improve yard handling practices. Reference
Dairy products vary in sensitivity. Fresh milk and cream must be kept between 0°C and +4°C, while butter and cheese tolerate slightly higher temperatures depending on fat and salt content. Rapid cooling after milking is essential to inhibit microbial growth. Consistent low temperatures preserve texture, flavour, and shelf life, while fluctuations can cause separation or spoilage. Reference
Created to fit smoothly into your terminal’s IT landscape, Reefer Runner becomes a core operational tool from day one. Simplicity is at the heart of it: zero training, plug-and-play TOS connectivity, straightforward installation and room to grow.
Reefer Runner by Identec Solutions
KPI reporting transforms operational data into actionable intelligence. In reefer logistics, where temperature control, uptime and energy use are vital, structured KPI reports allow managers to identify inefficiencies, verify compliance and justify investments in technology or infrastructure. Consistent reporting fosters transparency, enabling data-driven decisions that improve reliability, reduce costs and enhance sustainability. Without systematic KPI reporting, deviations or alarms may go unnoticed until they impact cargo or reputation. Reference
Typical customer-facing reports include temperature compliance rate, alarm frequency, energy efficiency, uptime percentage and deviation events resolved. These KPIs give shippers or cargo owners confidence that their goods were transported under specified conditions. They are presented in clear visual formats with trendlines, deviation logs and corrective-action timestamps. Reference
Granularity — the level of detail in the data — determines how precisely KPIs reflect reality. Hourly or minute-level temperature readings, for instance, can uncover short but critical deviations invisible in daily averages. Too coarse a dataset may lead to misleadingly good results, masking risks. High-granularity reporting ensures accuracy and enables faster incident response. Reference
Detailed KPI reporting provides verifiable proof of compliance with temperature, hygiene, and safety standards (e.g., HACCP, ISO 22000, BRCGS). When inspectors or auditors review reefer performance, digital KPI histories demonstrate due diligence and process control. This reduces audit preparation time and strengthens credibility during third-party verifications. Reference
Visualisation turns complex reefer metrics into accessible insights. Dashboards showing trend lines, coloured alarms and threshold bands enable rapid interpretation by non-technical users. Effective visualisation supports faster decision-making, simplifies management reviews and improves collaboration between operations and customer service teams. Reference
Reefer performance depends on both controllable actions (e.g., pre-cooling, plug management) and external conditions (e.g., weather, vessel delays). Reports that separate these factors provide fairer assessments and prevent misinterpretation of deviations. This distinction also helps prioritise corrective actions where they can truly make a difference. Reference
Automated reporting tools eliminate manual data entry, reduce human error and ensure consistent KPI tracking. In terminals with hundreds of connected reefers, automation integrates data from IoT sensors and TOS systems, generating real-time dashboards for energy use, temperature compliance, and alarm trends. This boosts accuracy and enables near-instantaneous response to deviations. Reference
Transparent performance reporting demonstrates reliability, reducing disputes and strengthening relationships. Customers who can view shipment KPIs — such as temperature stability and alarm resolution time — gain assurance that their cargo was handled professionally. This openness often translates into repeat business and competitive differentiation. Reference
Thresholds define acceptable performance limits (e.g., deviation < ±1.5 °C). When breached, alerts are generated and logged for review. KPI reporting tools aggregate these events, allowing managers to track frequency and resolution. Setting proper thresholds balances sensitivity (early warning) and practicality (avoiding alert fatigue). Reference
Sharing reefer KPIs across maintenance, operations, and commercial departments aligns objectives. Maintenance sees uptime patterns, operations focus on plug management and commercial uses quality KPIs to reassure clients. A unified KPI framework ensures consistent goals and faster, coordinated problem-solving. Reference
Numbers alone rarely explain anomalies. Annotated KPI reports link deviations or energy spikes to contextual events — vessel delay, door opening, ambient heatwave, or maintenance. This context helps analysts distinguish between normal variation and true process issues, improving decision quality. Reference
Combining KPIs such as energy use per TEU, CO₂ emissions, and plug utilisation supports ESG reporting and regulatory compliance. Reefer-specific sustainability dashboards demonstrate responsible energy management and can be shared with environmentally conscious clients. Reference
Achieve instant, real-time insight into every refrigerated container on site, independent of its make or type. Opt for a wireless setup that connects all reefer data ports to one central server and generates the documentation required for insurers and authorities.
Reefer Runner by Identec Solutions
Technology & Equipment: Reefer Container Types | Refrigeration and Airflow Systems | Power Supply and Electrical Systems | Energy Efficiency and Power Optimisation | Sensors, Controls, and IoT Integration | Monitoring and Automation Systems | Maintenance, Lifecycle, and Reliability | Standards, Compliance, and Certification
Transport & Modalities: Overview of Refrigerated Transport | Reefer Vessels and Maritime Operations | Stowage | Intermodal and Inland Reefer Transport | Trade Routes and Global Flows | Cold Corridor and Regional Infrastructure | Reefer Flow Management and Balancing |
Chronology & Operations: Chronology of the Cold Chain | Initial Cargo Conditioning | Pre-Cooling | Staging, Storage, and Cold Integrity | Reefer Handling at Terminals | Empty Reefer and Return Operations | Reefer Maintenance and Technical Inspections |
Monitoring, Data & KPIs: Reefer Monitoring Systems and Infrastructure | Parameters and Data Collection | Alarm Management and Response | Data Management and Analytics | Performance and KPI Measurement |
Cargo & Commodity Handling: Cargo Categories and Industry Applications | Cargo Preparation and Pre-Loading | Packaging and Protection Technologies | Dangerous and Sensitive Goods Handling | Quality Assurance and Traceability |
Sustainability & Environmental Impact: Energy Efficiency and Power Optimisation | Carbon Footprint and Emission Tracking | Packaging and Waste Reduction | Infrastructure Efficiency and Green Design |
Safety: Operational and Equipment Safety | Cargo Handling and Physical Safety | Chemical and Refrigerant Safety | Personnel and Procedural Safety | Training and Continuous Improvement |