If you're looking to purchase a refrigerated van unit for your business, it's important to consider all the factors that will determine which is the best fit. For example, if you're just transporting perishable goods within a short distance, then you might want to invest in a smaller unit with fewer features. However, if your company ships items long distances and needs the flexibility of being able to change routes quickly without having to worry about downtime due to cold storage issues or repair costs, then it may be better suited by investing in a larger unit with more advanced features like multi-temp setting, heating or standby option.
Temperature Control
The most common type of control uses a thermostat to maintain temperature. It's programmed to open and close the doors at a certain temperature threshold, keeping your refrigerated goods at the right temperature. Some
van reefer systems also have a remote or digital display that allows you to program the unit from inside your vehicle.
Energy Source
When you're shopping for a reefer, you'll have two main options to choose from: diesel and electric. Both of them have their pros and cons, so it's important to find the right match for your business needs.
Diesel is usually the cheapest option out there. However, diesel fuel prices can fluctuate wildly based on market conditions and regional demand—which is why many businesses keep one eye on the fuel costs control relating to van reefer operation.
Electric vans are great at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and noise pollution when compared with their gasoline counterparts.
Electric reefer units also prove more energy efficient than either diesel or propane vehicles (your electricity bill will thank you). On the other hand, EVs don't offer as much range as diesels do—so if your business has far-flung destinations in mind, this could be an issue for you.
Flexibility
When choosing a van reefer unit, it's important to consider how flexible the system will be. The unit should be able to adapt to your needs in order to be useful and functional in multiple situations.
The best van reefer units tend to have more flexibility than others. They are often more versatile, allowing them to be used for different purposes throughout their lifetimes.
Cargo Types
The types of your cargo can be an important factor in determining which van reefer unit is right for your business. The
van refrigeration units should be able to perfectly fit the cargo, so it can store products or other items within the correct temperature.
For example, if you wanted to transport fresh cargoes by using a refrigerated van, then this would probably work fine because a chiller van is typically able to keep your cargoes fresh at all time. However, if you were transporting frozen items like meat, ice cream by using a chiller vehicle, this might pose big problems because the
cargo van chiller system can only maintain a temperature zone of -5°C to 25°C. Frozen cargoes will be damaged inside a chiller vans.
Do make sure you have purchased the correct model to fit your cargoes.
Climate of Route
The climate of your route is the most important factor to consider when purchasing a van reefer unit. If you are going to be in a hot climate, you will need to have a deep-frozen system for your van that can keep the temperature below -30°C. If you are planning on driving in cold climates, there should also be heating capabilities for keeping items warm enough during winter months.
PS: Heating function is optional at Guchen Transport Refrigeration System
If you are in need of transporting both frozen and fresh cargoes, then it might make sense for you to get a multi-temperature reefer system: one for fresh items transporting and another for frozen items delivery.
Budget
When choosing the best van reefer for your business, it's important to consider the cost of the van reefer unit. The size and features of the unit will impact its price, as well as the brand.
It is important to keep in mind that there are many factors that go into determining a van roof top refrigerator’s price. Some of these factors include:
Sizing - larger vans require large refrigeration systems. The size of a van freezer unit determines its price. Van roof top refrigeration systems are usually made in three sizes: small, medium and large. The small one can store up to 10 cubic feet of food while the larger ones can store up to 25 cubic feet. The size also determines the weight capacity.
Quality - A high quality van reefer will generally last longer than one made with poorer quality materials or components, so investing in one that costs more but has better durability can be an excellent investment over time if used.
Features - Some models come with additional features such as electric standby.
Electric standby unit requires a separate refrigeration compressor to maintain the inner cargo temperature while your vehicle engine stops for unloading, therefore it is more expensive than standard configuration models.
Van reefers come in a variety of sizes and can be used for a variety of purposes. It is important to consider all the necessary factors when selecting a refrigerated van unit so that you can make an informed decision about which one will fit your needs best.
