Job Snapshot
Weekly Pay Target $1,700
Mileage Rate $0.60 - $0.67 CPM
Weekly Miles 2,300 - 2,700 Miles
Home Frequency 2-3 Nights/Week
Hourly Pay Varies / Hr
Orientation Pay Paid
Freight Touch Level 60% Drop & Hook, Some Live Unload
Run Territory AZ, Southern CA, NV, NM
Position Overview
This Regional Reefer position is available with a confidential carrier hiring experienced CDL-A drivers out of the Phoenix area. The work centers on temperature-controlled grocery freight moving from major distribution centers in the Phoenix metro to stores and warehouses across Arizona, Southern California, Nevada, and New Mexico.
Drivers can expect mostly regional runs with consistent freight volume thanks to steady grocery demand. Routes use I-10, I-17, I-40 and I-8 corridors. Late model tractors with reefer trailers help maintain product integrity on every load.
This account offers predictable schedules with opportunities for 2-3 nights out per week and regular returns to the Phoenix terminal.
Typical Day
Most shifts start early with dispatch releasing loads the night before or early morning. You'll complete your pre-trip on a late-model tractor at the yard or pickup location in areas like Tolleson, Goodyear or west Phoenix. Verify the reefer temp, seals and BOL before heading out.
Runs head to places like Las Vegas on I-17/US-93, Albuquerque on I-40, or Ontario on I-10. At delivery, expect appointment windows at grocery DCs. Some drop-and-hook, others live unload. Dispatch usually has your next load lined up to keep you moving.
Backhauls are common from regional warehouses. Drivers monitor temperatures closely and communicate delays promptly via Qualcomm. End the day with post-trip, paperwork submission, and parking at the terminal when back in Phoenix.
Route Coverage & Operations
Active Driving Territory: AZ, Southern CA, NV, NM
Average Trip Distance: 300-600 Miles One Way
Route Type: Regional Reefer
Primary Corridors & Highways: I-10, I-17, I-40, I-8, US-93
Core Delivery Cities: Las Vegas, Albuquerque, Tucson, Ontario CA, El Centro
Traffic & Route Challenges: Phoenix metro traffic, desert heat, occasional monsoon impacts
Freight Specifications
You'll haul refrigerated grocery items like packaged foods, dairy, frozen products, beverages, fresh produce and meat. Loads originate from large DCs in the Phoenix area serving supermarkets and foodservice.
Primary Commodities: Refrigerated Grocery & Produce
Cargo Securing System: 53' Reefer Trailers
Load Profile: Palletized, Temp-Controlled
Reload Frequency: High Backhaul Opportunities
Standard Trailer Length: 53 Foot
Loading, Unloading & Touch Freight
Freight Touch Level: Mostly Drop & Hook with Live Unloads
Touch Freight Details: 60% Drop & Hook, 40% Live
Drop & Hook Percentage: 60% Drop & Hook
Live Loading Ratio: Live loads/unloads common at DCs
Average Scheduled Stops: 1-2 per run
Compensation & Earnings
Mileage Rate: $0.60 - $0.67 CPM
Average Weekly Earnings: $1,700 Target
Weekly Miles: 2,300 - 2,700
Detention Pay: $18/hour after 2 hours
Stop Pay: $30 per additional stop
Pay Frequency: Weekly Direct Deposit
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often will I be home? A: Usually 2-3 nights out per week with regular Phoenix returns.
Q: What freight will I haul? A: Refrigerated grocery products including dairy, produce, frozen and packaged foods.
Q: What is the target weekly pay? A: Around $1,700 average with good miles and accessorials.
Q: Are trucks assigned? A: Yes, assigned tractors for most drivers when available.
Q: Do I need reefer experience? A: Preferred but not required. Training available for solid candidates.
Phoenix CDL-A Trucking Market
Phoenix sits at the heart of Southwest grocery and refrigerated freight. As a major distribution hub, the area supports steady year-round demand for reefer drivers moving food products to growing cities in Arizona, Nevada and California. I-10 serves as the main artery connecting Phoenix to Southern California markets while I-17 links to Las Vegas.
Drivers familiar with desert operations know the importance of proper reefer management during extreme summer heat. Grocery DCs in Tolleson, Goodyear and Buckeye keep loads moving consistently. Backhauls from California and New Mexico help maximize productivity on regional runs.
CDL-A jobs in Phoenix remain strong due to population growth and retail expansion. This regional reefer account provides the balance many drivers seek — solid miles without the long OTR hauls. Local carriers value drivers who understand appointment-based grocery deliveries and temperature compliance.
The market offers opportunities for experienced drivers who can navigate Phoenix traffic, manage HOS on multi-state runs, and maintain professional customer service at warehouse receiving docks. Consistent freight from food distributors makes this a reliable choice for regional work in the Southwest.
