Hiring Fridge Trailers vs. Refrigerated Vans: Which Is Right for Your Business?

Have you considered choosing a fridge trailer or a refrigerated van for your business? Both of these options offer great cold storage. But, their unique benefits mean that some are better suited for businesses than others. You want to take your time to consider the advantages of both before rushing into a decision. So, let’s take a look at what you need to know.

Understanding Fridge Trailers

Fridge trailers, as the name suggests, are portable refrigeration units that you can hire. They’re essentially trailers with built-in cooling systems, offering a solution for businesses that require temperature-controlled storage. What makes them stand out?

Temperature Control: Fridge trailers have advanced cooling technology, ensuring precise temperature control. Whether you need to increase your cold storage at your premises or you’re going to an outdoor event, this can be the perfect solution for your business.

Ample Storage: These trailers come in various sizes, offering generous storage space for your goods. From small businesses to large enterprises, there’s a size that suits everyone. You can read more about chiller trailer hire and the available sizes at Icecool Trailers. They offer you the chance to hire the cold storage you need, no matter the occasion. 

Versatility: Fridge trailers are very versatile and can be used in a variety of situations. For example, say you don’t have any space in your building for more cold storage. They can be positioned outside. Alternatively, you’re going to an event and need to keep items at a certain temperature. You can get a trailer delivered and use a generator.

Exploring Refrigerated Vans

On the flip side, we have refrigerated vans. These are self-contained refrigeration units on wheels. You’ll notice that the main difference between fridge trailers and refrigerated vans is the fact that the latter can move. Let’s take a look at the advantages of this option.

Drive Anywhere: As we’ve just mentioned, refrigerated vans can be driven. This allows you to take your goods wherever they need to go and deliver items to customers.

Compact Convenience: Refrigerated vans are perfect for businesses that don’t require a lot of cargo space. They’re compact, manoeuvrable, and easy to park, making them ideal for urban deliveries.

Direct Cooling: With refrigerated vans, there’s no need for external power sources. They come with their own power units, making them self-sufficient.

Quick Access: Need to unload in a hurry? Refrigerated vans provide quick and easy access to your goods. You can quickly grab items from the back.

Comparative Analysis

Now, let’s dive and compare these two options. Both can be real assets for your business, and hiring makes getting your hands on them easier. But, you’ve got to choose the right one for your business. Let’s get started.

Capacity:

Fridge trailers generally offer larger storage capacity compared to refrigerated vans. This might be a decisive factor if you’re dealing with a high volume of goods. However, if you primarily handle smaller loads, a refrigerated van’s compact size might suit your needs better. Consider the capacity you need, and you can hire from there. If you’re not sure about the right size, a cold storage company will help you.

Mobility:

Do you need to move items around? Are you just looking for more cold storage? These are questions you really need to think about. In particular, hire a fridge trailer if you are looking for storage at your premises or for an event. The hiring company delivers them to your location, and they don’t move. If you want to drive items around, then you are better off with a refrigerated van.

Cost Analysis:

Regarding upfront cost, it depends on the hiring company you choose. Often, fridge trailers can be affordable compared to other solutions. You can get a quote in advance to see if this is the best option for you. In particular, hiring long-term is considered the most cost-effective. Refrigerated vans will mean paying to hire the van, getting someone to drive it and paying for fuel.

Maintenance and Repairs

No matter which option you choose, maintenance is key to keeping your refrigeration system in top shape. Regular inspections, cleaning, and servicing are essential. However, it’s worth noting that fridge trailers might require slightly more maintenance due to their complex cooling systems. But, this should be something that is included with your hiring agreement. In other words, the cold storage company will carry out any repairs for you, which means that you don’t pay for it. Ensure this is the case before agreeing to the hire.

Conclusion

Choosing between fridge trailers and refrigerated vans is a big decision. You want to ensure you make the best choice for your business and that will help you succeed. Weigh up the pros and cons, consider your business requirements, and you’ll soon find the perfect refrigeration solution to keep your products fresh and your customers happy.