Who is RTE?
For over four decades, RTE has pioneered technology solutions for refrigerated transport—developing many of the monitoring systems now standard across the industry. From marine terminals to vessels, our innovations in data collection and management help ensure the safe, efficient movement of perishable containerized cargo.
We remain a trusted partner to operators worldwide, delivering integrated systems that provide real-time visibility, historical insights, and actionable data across the cold chain.
Industry-Standard Remanufacturing
RTE set the benchmark for electronic controller remanufacturing—developing processes that remain the industry standard today. Our expertise spans Thermo King, Carrier, and other leading brands, with precision repair and refurbishment that extends equipment life and reduces waste across the cold chain.
Built on Experience. Driven by Innovation.
While remanufacturing remains a cornerstone of our expertise, RTE has evolved into a forward-focused technology partner for the refrigerated transport industry. Our software and hardware solutions empower operators to reduce costs, streamline operations, and gain full control over their data—from dock to destination.
Pioneers in Remote Reefer Monitoring
In 1985, RTE launched the first commercial Powerline Cable Transmission system for remote reefer monitoring—years before mobile devices or wireless networks existed. Developed for Thermo King, our PCT system gave operators unprecedented visibility into reefer conditions, enabling remote diagnostics, historical data tracking, and smarter service decisions.
That breakthrough laid the foundation for today’s connected cold chain—and RTE has been innovating ever since.
Leading the Shift to Wireless Monitoring
In 2011, RTE introduced the Wireless Reefer Acquisition Device (WRAD)—the industry’s first wireless solution for remote reefer monitoring. Built to meet the evolving demands of containerized transport, WRAD eliminated cable constraints and unlocked real-time visibility, historical tracking, and smarter control for terminal operators.
It marked a turning point in cold chain connectivity—and RTE continues to lead the way.
Innovating What’s Next
RTE continues to push the boundaries of reefer monitoring—developing smarter, more connected tools that help operators deliver greater value across the cold chain. Our latest breakthroughs include:
WRAD II™ – A next-gen wireless monitoring system with enhanced range and reliability
BEACON™ Alert System – A visual notification platform that transforms reefer status into actionable alerts
These technologies reflect our commitment to smarter data, faster decisions, and safer cargo—today and tomorrow.
ISO 9001:2015 Certified
RTE’s New Product Manufacturing Division is proudly ISO 9001:2015 certified—reflecting our commitment to quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction. Our processes are rigorously planned, verified, and tested to meet the highest standards and ensure compliance with customer requirements.
We aim to be the supplier of choice in mobile refrigerated transportation by delivering reliable products, responsive service, and an exceptional customer experience.
Industry Pioneers
Technological Milestones
1981
RTE founded as the first company to offer electronic remanufacturing of reefer controllers.
1985
Released the first commercially available Powerline Cable Transmission Reefer Monitoring System, Thermo NetTM - a registered trademark of Thermo King Corp
1993
RTE released the first Dual Data Rate PCT system complying with ISO10368 requirements.
2000
Introduced GRASPNet PCT Networking System for advanced data collection and record-keeping that uses the same communication protocols as the Internet, TCP/IP.
2006
Released GRIP - a cutting-edge reefer data acquisition device delivered years before iPhones and apps.
Opened our regional office in Panama to better support LATAM refrigerated transport industry.
2011
First Wireless Reefer Acquisition Device (WRAD) was released, changing the nature of reefer monitoring and making it accessible for smaller reefer operators.
2012
Released the Networked RRCE-T System, the Remote Reefer Communication Engine became the first reefer monitoring solution that offered terminals complete control over their data collection environment.
2013
GRASP 3.0 Software introduced as an industry-changing solution to reefer monitoring, providing Web or Windows-based UI and the ability to interface with TOS and 3rd party software systems.
2015
Introduced an Ultrasonic Fuel Sensor, eliminating false fuel readings due to mechanical obstructions or failures from conventional float-operated fuel level gauges.
2016
The introduction of the RRCE-D system, a distributed network of data pushing communication devices, provided the first High-Availability platform in real-time monitoring.
2018
RTE receives ISO 9001:2015 certification for new product manufacturing.
2019
RTE Cargo Sensor Released; Optical Fuel Sensor Released for easy installation into any size fuel tank.
2020
RTE achieves NAVIS Ready validation for the GRASP 3.0 Remote Reefer Monitoring System with Navis N4 3.7.5.1
2021
Released RTE Door Sensor, the first to feature LoRa Communication; WRAD II™ Wireless Reefer Monitoring Device; and GrAsPP™, the industry’s first Reefer Monitoring Mobile Application.
2024
Introduced BEACON, the first visual reefer alert system for terminal operations, automating work orders and simplifying complex processes like plug-in and plug-out commands.
Larry Brickner, RTE Founder
Laurence R. Brickner, born in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, on September 19, 1942, spent a lifetime following his passion for electronic engineering, beginning after receiving his BSEE degree from the University of Wyoming in 1965 and serving seven years in the United States Air Force through 1969.
In 1969, Larry joined the Advanced Systems Development Group of Automatic Electric Laboratories in Northlake, Illinois, attaining the position of Senior Supervisor, CPU Development before accepting a position with Booz Allen Applied Research in 1973.
While with Sea-Land Services starting in 1975, he began a direction towards refrigerated transport by holding roles that included Director of Bulk, Hazardous, and Perishable Commodities and Director of Research and Development. The latter involved Remote Refrigeration Monitoring and automated handling of containers.
With years of experience in hand, Larry ventured on his own in 1981, founding Refrigerated Transport Electronics, where he served as President from 1981 to 2005.
RTE
1 West Center Street McGraw, NY 13101 USA
RTE PANAMA
And we’re just getting started
Technology is constantly changing, and RTE is continually researching unique ways to use it to improve cold-chain transportation and support our industry.
What’s next? Stay connected and be the first to hear the latest development from RTE.