What You Need to Know Before Buying a Refrigerated Vehicle 

The right refrigerated vehicle — whether a reefer truck or van — can make or break your fleet operations. Knowing what variables to consider if you’re in the market to purchase one in the upcoming months is vital to ensuring the success of your cold chain operations.    

As a leading provider of refrigerated vehicles with over a decade of experience, we share everything there is to know about selecting the right solution that keeps temperature variations to a minimum while ensuring the quality and safety of your products.  

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the types of vehicles you can choose and what factors you need to keep top of mind when narrowing down your choice.  

 

Types of Refrigerated Trucks and Vans You Can Choose  

Delivery volume, route distance, and product requirements will determine the type of refrigerated van or truck your business needs. Below are the main vehicle types to consider. 

Chiller Conversion Van 

A chiller conversion van is an insulated van with a moderate cooling unit. The insulation keeps warm air out while the refrigeration system maintains a chilled environment. Chiller vans are ideal for delivering perishables that need to stay cool (above freezing) but not frozen. They’re great for transporting items like produce, flowers, or beverages that require temperatures just above 32°F and are best for short-haul travel.  

Semi-Freezer Van 

Semi-freezer vans have heavier insulation and a more powerful refrigeration unit, maintaining temperatures below 0°F. These refrigerated vehicles can carry frozen products (like ice cream or meat) that must stay below freezing during transit. They often come with quick-defrost capabilities for flexibility. This vehicle type is a midpoint between chiller and full freezer vans and is suitable if you occasionally need freezing temperatures but primarily operate in the refrigerated range.  

 Full-Freezer Van

Full freezer vans have more robust heat-resistant doors and sidewalls in addition to the features of a semi-freezer van. These vans are designed to keep cargo at deep-freeze temperatures (0°F or below) consistently. The enhanced insulation (often with a lower K-factor for better thermal resistance) minimizes heat intrusion.  

Full-freezer vans are ideal for transporting products that must remain frozen solid, such as ice creams, frozen foods, or pharmaceuticals. Despite their heavy insulation, they still offer reasonable payload capacity and are essential for goods that cannot tolerate any thawing. 

Refrigerated Truck 

Refrigerated trucks, commonly called reefer trucks, are refrigerated box trucks or semi-trucks with refrigerated trailers. They offer larger cargo space and payload capacity than vans and are capable of carrying multiple pallets while maintaining consistent temperature over long distances. 

Reefer trucks can be single-unit straight trucks or tractor-trailers. They’re the workhorses for grocery distributors, food service, and other large-scale cold chain operations. Modern types of refrigerated trucks come with advanced cooling systems that keep products within a precise temperature range regardless of outside conditions.  

Many can handle multi-temperature configurations as well (with partitions to create separate zones), which is useful for transporting both chilled and frozen goods in one trip.  

Expert Insight: Vehicles are often classified by their temperature capabilities in refrigerated transport. Understanding these classes can help you match a van or truck’s cooling capacity to your product requirements. 

• Class A maintains temperatures between 54°F and 32°F 

• Class B maintains temperatures between 54°F and 14°F 

• Class C maintains temperatures between 54°F and –4°F. 

 

10 Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Refrigerated Vehicle 

Whether you’re buying a refrigerated truck or a refrigerated van, it’s important to understand the business’s needs before getting started. You’ll want to consider the vehicle size, temperature controls, and types of goods you’re transporting. Use those parameters together with the following variables to narrow down your choice.  

1.Budget and Total Cost of Ownership  

Knowing how to buy a refrigerated truck or van starts with setting a budget before you shop. Pricing for a refrigerated vehicle varies depending on the size, age, and features. For example, buying a new reefer van can cost $30,000-$60,000, while converting an old van into a reefer runs $10,000-$20,000.  

While staying within budget is always important, a low purchase price isn’t always the best value. Hidden costs, like poor efficiency and imminent maintenance costs, can quickly erode savings. Research typical pricing to ballpark how much you will spend while factoring in the total cost of ownership to get the most out of your investment.  

Expert Insight: Stick with reputable sellers with a range of pricing options that you can trust, even if your budget is on the lower end of the scale. 

2. Temperature Requirements 

Assess the temperature requirements for your products. Several items will deteriorate if left above a specific temperature. For example, suppose you’re a pharmacy delivering medication. In that case, it’s imperative to have the right vehicle to keep them cool. Pharmaceuticals, such as insulin, need to stay between 35°F and 46°F. 

In contrast, if you’re shipping fine art or antiques, then those items can travel closer to 70°F. Whether you’re transporting ice cream, flowers, cosmetics, or engineered chemicals, no one knows your products better than you.  

Make note of the temperature variables you need to account for. Once you’ve found the temperature range you need to keep your products safe and protected, you can match requirements to refrigerated vehicles that can hold to that same range. 

Expert Insight: The best refrigerated vehicles have robust, reliable cooling systems that can be set to the optimal temperature and hold it steady. Choose a vehicle with a proven refrigeration unit brand known for reliability (e.g., ThermoKing, Carrier, etc.), especially for hauling high-value or sensitive cargo. 

3. Refrigeration Type 

Depending on your cargo, you may need a vehicle that maintains multiple temperatures in one unit. For example, a nationwide grocer might choose a multi-temperature unit to keep all products at optimal conditions and reduce trips. Here are the top three refrigeration types to consider.  

Single-Temperature Units 

A single temperature container, or single-temp trailer, maintains one consistent temperature inside the cabin. This refrigeration type is more common and often lighter and less expensive than its multi-temp counterparts. They’re also the more practical option if you usually transport the same kinds of products.  

Multi-Temperature Units

If you need to move mid-temperature goods concurrently with deep-frozen or any combination of goods that require differing temperatures, then a multi-temp unit is the better investment. A multi-temp unit can be divided into several compartments, with each partition set to a specific temperature.  

For example, you can have one section at –10°F and another at +35°F simultaneously. Multi-temp units cost more and add complexity, but you can consolidate deliveries and run fewer vehicles. They’re also great if the business plans to expand its product offerings in the future. 

Diesel-Powered Refrigeration Units 

Diesel engine refrigeration units are powered separately from the vehicle’s engine and can ensure cooling continues even when the vehicle’s engine is off.  As a result, these units tend to be pricier. Because of their ability to ensure temperature stability during deliveries, diesel-powered units are great for transporting goods across long distances.  

Expert Insight: Match the truck’s refrigeration capability to your cold chain requirements. When in doubt, err on the side of a slightly wider temperature range capacity for flexibility. If long idle times are expected (like at loading docks or multi-stop routes), consider vehicles with standby power or a separate diesel-powered refrigeration unit.  

4. Payload Capacity 

How much product do you expect to ship daily, weekly, and monthly? For smaller businesses like a pharmacy or a floral shop, a refrigerated van should suffice. For larger businesses like grocery stores, a refrigerated delivery truck with an extensive payload capacity is best.  

Load size and how it will fit in your vehicle are other factors to consider. Ensure that the truck can carry the expected payload and has sufficient space to load it. If you’re hauling meat or poultry, for example, you’ll need a large truck with plenty of room to hang goods. 

The goal should be to maximize space while having quick access to the products. Also consider future business plans. Refrigerated trucks can be costly, but investing in one that caters to your needs today and tomorrow can save you time and money in the long run. 

Expert Insight: Evaluate your cargo space dimensions and payload rating to ensure you’re selecting the right vehicle. Determine the number of pallets and crates that can fit into the vehicle and assess whether it can handle the cargo weight. It’s common to underestimate the space required for insulation and built-in cooling equipment. Always check the usable interior dimensions and not just the external box size. 

5. Fuel Efficiency and Distance  

With fuel prices fluctuating due to global factors, fuel economy is critical to managing fleet costs. Refrigerated vehicles naturally consume more fuel because the refrigeration unit draws power, and heavy build materials like insulation add to the load. Lighter materials and aerodynamic designs can help offset this. 

When evaluating refrigerated vehicles, consider matching vehicle type to route. Vans are ideal for local delivery and urban environments. Trucks are better for long-distance travel and can reliably keep products cool over extended periods. You also must factor in the fuel economy between new and older vehicles.  

Newer models often incorporate technologies that improve fuel efficiency, like better insulation and engine capabilities. However, you can upgrade an older model to improve fuel economy via aerodynamic body designs or more efficient compressors.  

Finally, some trucks have standby electric capabilities. You can plug into an outlet at the loading dock to power the refrigeration unit electrically, saving diesel while stationary. With alternative fuel and electric/hybrid refrigerated vehicles now emerging, investing in these models can further cut fuel costs and support compliance with evolving regulations. 

Expert Insight: Estimate the operating cost per mile by factoring fuel usage alongside maintenance. If a model uses 15% less fuel than another, it can translate to significant savings over tens of thousands of miles. Spending more upfront for better fuel economy or modern tech can yield significant long-term savings. 

6. Age, Condition, and Maintenance History 

The decision to buy new vs. used is significant in the refrigerated vehicle market. Recent models often have more advanced cooling features that better suit your needs and require less upfront scrutiny. 

With older options, you’ll need to dig deeper. Refrigerated vehicles typically have shorter life spans, and while well-maintained units can still perform effectively, it’s essential to verify their condition. When evaluating a used vehicle, check for: 

• Body wear and tear that can affect insulation and performance, such as cracks, repaired patches, rust spots, or warped door seals  

• Service records confirming regular maintenance on key refrigeration components like the compressor or condensers, plus any major replacements that may have been made  

• Cooling performance by request to do a test run to determine if the vehicle can maintain a consistent temperature for a given period 

Expert Insight: Don’t be afraid to ask the hard questions. Getting clear answers can help you understand if you’re inheriting any problems that can impact your operating costs. Likewise, consider bringing a trusted mechanic or reefer technician to inspect any major components before driving your vehicle off the lot.  

7. Insulation and Build Quality  

Insulation and material quality have a direct impact on vehicle performance and efficiency. Higher quality materials can slow down wear-and-tear and protect against rust and corrosion. When looking at the insulation, determine if it has a low-k factor.  

Low-k factor means the refrigerated vehicle is better at keeping heat out of the unit during transit, ensuring products arrive fresh while maximizing fuel economy. Newer models typically incorporate lightweight composite materials or foam-insulated panels that provide great thermal resistance without added weight.  

Beyond insulation, ensure that the interior can withstand corrosion and the demands of your cargo. Stainless steel or aluminum surfaces are non-porous, making it easier to clean and prevent corrosion from spills during transit. Likewise, your flooring should be sturdy and have anti-slip capabilities to ensure driver safety.  

Expert Insight: Keep regulatory compliance top of mind. Vehicles incorporating sustainable materials and technology, like recycled water bottles in insulated panels and solar-powered refrigeration systems, can reduce carbon footprint. These materials also reduce overall vehicle weight, which increases fuel economy and payload capacity.  

8. Door Configuration and Product Accessibility  

Door configuration is often overlooked. Yet the placement and style of doors have an impact on operational efficiency and temperature control. Every time doors are opened, the temperature fluctuates, introducing variances that can lead to waste or product degradation.  

When thinking of your fleet’s needs, consider delivery routes, number of stops, and loading/unloading practices. This will help guide what kind of features you need to drive operational efficiency. For example:   

• Strip curtains or automatic soft doors minimize temperature variances for routes requiring multiple stops 

• Side doors provide quick product access and ensure stable conditions by reducing the need to open large rear doors each time 

• Liftgates or low floor vehicle design can improve the loading/unloading efficiency if your fleet uses forklifts or pallet jacks 

Expert Insight: How daily deliveries are organized determines what you look for in a vehicle. The key is to select the right features that enable a stable internal environment for your products.  

9. Driver Safety and Comfort  

Driver safety and comfort directly affect retention. Long hours become harder if the steering pulls, the cab feels cramped, or noise levels are high. Older reefers are often louder than newer models, which can lead to driver fatigue. If this is an issue, consider newer vehicles with noise-dampening features or refrigeration units positioned farther from the cab. 

Also, weigh ride quality and maneuverability. For shorter, urban routes, smaller vehicles like chiller vans are easier to handle and less stressful to drive. For long hauls, prioritize safety features such as cruise control, quality suspension, backup cameras, lane departure warnings, and strong braking systems. 

Expert Insight: Happy and comfortable drivers make for a safe and productive fleet. Consider the day in the life of a driver or conduct regular surveys to evaluate the features that will help with driver retention and fleet operations, and inform investment decisions. 

10. Customization  

Customization is the best way to ensure you’ll buy the right vehicle. For example, shelving and racks can make it easier to organize smaller packages. This could be instrumental if you’re running a meal kit delivery service, delivering medicine, or need something that sets your unique needs like an ice-cream truck design.  

Inversely, E-tracks or F-tracks on the walls can be used to secure pallets to walls and prevent load shifting during long-haul travel. Depending on your needs, take the time to list your wants to determine if a vehicle already has these features built in or if you can retrofit a vehicle to include them.  

Expert Insight: Every additional feature or uplift has a trade-off. Installing a secondary linear can be great at keeping heat out, but it can eat up much-needed square footage. Also, account for future modifications. Choosing a model that is easy to modify can be beneficial for getting extra mileage from your investment down the road. 

Selecting the Right Refrigerated Vehicle for You  

Once you’ve acquired a refrigerated vehicle, you’ll want to establish a regular maintenance program and operating protocols to protect and extend the life span of your investment. It can also prove beneficial should you decide to sell it after it has served its intended purpose.  

If you’re still unsure of how to select a vehicle or where to start, partnering with a trusted supplier can help. Emerald Transportation Solutions has supplied high-quality refrigerated trucks and vans for over 55 years. Our team of professionals can help you select the most affordable and reliable refrigerated truck. 

Whether you’re looking for a Ford, Chevy, Ram, or other make, rest assured that we’ll find the vehicle for you. We carry different-sized refrigerated delivery trucks, including 12’-14,’ 16’-20,’ and 22’-28’ options. The 12’-14’ is our smallest commercial refrigerated truck, and it can handle 4-6 pallets and between 5,000 and 7,000 lbs. The 22’ to 28’ option is our heavy-duty option, and it can take on 10-12 pallets and payloads between 9,000 and 15,000 lbs.  

Our collection of insulated delivery trucks comes from Isuzu, Hino, Mitsubishi, Ford, Chevrolet, and others. Contact us today to learn more about the refrigerated vehicles  and the competitive  finance options  we offer.  

Editor’s Note: This blog was originally published in July 2021 and has been updated for comprehensiveness in August 2025.