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Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

Owner Operator

Lemont, IL · On-site

$8K - $12K/wk

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

GOLD STANDARD TRANSPORT Tinley Park, IL Owner Operator CDL A Truck Driver - Dry Van - 1099 ... - $2.50 per mile gross * Keep 88% of the gross * Dry van average ≈ $2.30/mile | Reefer loads ...

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Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer information

See salary details

$644

$4.4K

$7.7K

How much do per diem owner operator reefer jobs pay per week?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average weekly pay for per diem owner operator reefer in the United States is $4,395.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $2,403.85 and $6,538.46 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer, you need a valid CDL, strong knowledge of refrigerated freight handling, and experience managing independent trucking operations. Familiarity with electronic logging devices (ELDs), reefer unit controls, and route planning software is typically required. Excellent time management, communication, and problem-solving skills help you navigate schedules, maintain cargo integrity, and build strong client relationships. These abilities are crucial for ensuring timely, safe delivery of temperature-sensitive goods and maximizing profitability as an independent contractor.

What are some common challenges faced by Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer drivers and how can they be managed?

Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer drivers often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict temperature controls, tight delivery schedules, and managing their own business expenses. It's important to regularly monitor reefer units to ensure product integrity and avoid costly spoilage. Additionally, balancing per diem expense tracking and paperwork is crucial for accurate tax reporting. Building strong relationships with dispatchers and shippers can help secure consistent loads and smooth communication, which are key to a successful operation.

What is a Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer?

A Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer is an independent truck driver who owns or leases their refrigerated (reefer) truck and is paid on a per-day (per diem) basis for transporting temperature-sensitive goods. These operators contract with freight companies or shippers to haul loads that require refrigeration, such as food or pharmaceuticals. The per diem arrangement means they are compensated daily, rather than per mile or per load, and they are responsible for their own expenses, such as fuel, maintenance, and insurance. This role offers flexibility and control over one’s schedule, but also requires managing the business aspects of trucking.

What is the difference between Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer vs Per Diem Owner Operator Dry Van?

AspectPer Diem Owner Operator ReeferPer Diem Owner Operator Dry Van
Type of TrailerRefrigerated (Reefer)Dry Van
Required CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Reefer endorsementCDL, possibly a dry van endorsement
Work EnvironmentCold storage, temperature-controlled loadsStandard freight, no temperature control
Industry UsageFood, pharmaceuticals, perishable goodsGeneral freight, non-perishable goods

Both roles involve operating a truck as an owner-operator with per diem pay, but Reefer drivers handle temperature-sensitive loads requiring refrigeration, while Dry Van drivers transport non-perishable freight. The main differences are the trailer type, required endorsements, and the nature of the cargo.

More about Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer jobs
What cities are hiring for Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer jobs? Cities with the most Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Owner Operator Reefer jobs? The most popular types of Owner Operator Reefer jobs are:
What states have the most Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer jobs? States with the most job openings for Per Diem Owner Operator Reefer jobs include:
Owner-operator Reefer truck driver - Kroger

Owner-operator Reefer truck driver - Kroger

Schneider

Lancaster, OH • On-site

$160K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday


Schneider National rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 94 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

116th of 336 rated logistics


Job description


Average revenue range: $160,000-$250,000

Overview
  • Dry van and Reefer trailers hauling frozen and refrigerated goods.
  • Approximately 10% driver assist pallet jack unloads.
  • Approximately 30% drop-and-hook freight.
  • 10-15 loads per week with 1-3 stop-offs loads.
  • Drive within IN, MI, OH and WV.
  • Get $228 on your second settlement payment and $126 each week for the next 22 weeks, for a total of $3,000 in incentives (terms and conditions apply).
Qualifications
  • Possess a valid Class A Commercial Driver’s License.
  • Minimum 6 months of Class A driving experience.
  • Meet the following tractor requirements:
    • Truck(s) must be 2011 or newer.
    • Truck(s) need to pass a DOT inspection.
    • Engine(s) must meet EPA10 emissions requirements.
    • Truck(s) need a functioning Collision Mitigation System.
  • Additional qualifications apply.
  • Live within 60 miles of Delaware, OH.

Need a truck or want to upgrade? Schneider can get you in touch with equipment sales and leasing providers.

Additional advantages
  • Compensation for time spent in orientation.
  • Discounts on fuel, tires, maintenance and more through Schneider’s Purchase Power Program.
  • Unlimited referral bonuses.
  • Tools to help you succeed: Doing business with Schneider means being provided a Samsung tablet you can use inside and outside your cab and having free trailer usage.
  • Access to company facilities: Take full advantage of Schneider’s facilities, which provide free parking, free laundry, meal options, exercise equipment and more.

Job Owner-Operator
Schedule FULLTIME
Sign On Bonus 3000

PI284801745


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