So you need to rent a chiller van for an upcoming job or delivery, but you’re not sure where to start. With so many options out there, how do you choose the right refrigerated van rental for your needs? The good news is, if you go in with a plan and know what to look for, finding an affordable refrigerated van rental can be pretty straightforward. The most important things to consider are size, temperature control, and rental terms. Get those factors figured out up front and you’ll be well on your way to keeping things cool during transport. Read on to learn some tips for choosing a refrigerated van rental that will get the job done right.
Types of Refrigerated Vans Available for Rent
When renting a refrigerated van, you have a few options to choose from based on your needs.
- Cargo vans are the most common and affordable. They typically range from 8 to 28 feet in length. Great for transporting perishable goods over shorter distances.
- Reefer vans, or refrigerated vans, are ideal if you need to keep things chilled for longer hauls or at specific temperatures. They come in a range of sizes as well and can maintain temperatures from 30 to 70 degrees F. More expensive, but necessary for temperature-controlled loads.
- Frozen vans are reefer vans that can reach sub-zero temperatures, perfect for transporting frozen foods. They tend to be the most expensive type of refrigerated van to rent due to their more heavy-duty refrigeration units.
- Insulated vans have additional insulation but no refrigeration. They can only maintain temperatures slightly above ambient conditions. More budget-friendly but only suitable for nearby deliveries in cool weather.
No matter which chiller van rental you choose, be sure to specify how cold you need it, the size and type of items you’ll be transporting, and your planned route. The rental company can then recommend a suitable van and ensure it’s pre-cooled to the proper temperature before loading your perishable cargo. With the right van for the job, you’ll make it to your destination without losing freshness or quality.
What Temperature Do You Need? Choosing Between a Refrigerated Van or Freezer Van
So you need to rent a refrigerated van, but what temperature do you actually need? Choosing between a refrigerated van or freezer van depends on what you need to transport.
For most perishable goods like fresh produce, meats, or dairy, a standard refrigerated van kept between 35 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit will do the trick. These vans are perfect for:
- Transporting goods from farms, processing plants, or distribution centers to stores or restaurants
- Making local deliveries to customers
- Keeping ingredients fresh en route to food prep locations
If you’re transporting frozen goods, you’ll want a freezer van that maintains sub-zero temperatures, around -20 degrees Fahrenheit. Freezer vans are ideal for:
- Transporting frozen meats, seafood, prepared foods or other frozen goods
- Delivering ice cream and frozen treats
- Keeping medical supplies like vaccines at extremely cold temperatures
The temperature you need depends entirely on what you’re transporting. Think about the ideal temperature range for your goods and choose a van that can properly refrigerate or freeze them. Some companies offer vans with customizable temperature controls so you can adjust the temp to your exact needs.
With the right chiller van rent van at the proper temperature, you’ll be able to safely and efficiently transport your perishable and frozen goods. Choose wisely based on what you’re carrying, and your cargo will stay fresh from pickup to delivery.
Features to Consider When Renting a Refrigerated Van
Size
When renting a chiller van, consider what size vehicle you need for your load. Sizes typically range from small cargo vans up to 26-foot straight trucks. Think about the volume and dimensions of what you need to haul to determine the right size for your needs. Too small a van means you’ll have to make multiple trips, wasting time and money, while too large a van results in wasted space and higher rental fees.
Temperature control
A key feature of a rent chiller van is its ability to maintain a consistent cool temperature. Look for a van with high-quality insulation and a temperature control system with options to set the temperature as needed for your cargo. Some vans allow you to set different temperatures in different zones or compartments. The van should be capable of maintaining temperatures as low as -20°F for transporting frozen goods. Check if the van has backup generators in case of main power failure.
Loading and unloading
Consider how easily you can load and unload the refrigerated van. Look for one with double back doors, lift gates, ramps or tailgates for efficient loading and unloading. Some vans have side doors in addition to rear doors. Think about the dimensions of your cargo and if it will fit through the available doors and if lifts or ramps can handle the weight. The van’s doors and openings should seal properly to maintain the internal temperature.
Additional features
Some other useful features to consider include:
-Shelving, racks and cargo straps for securing your load
-Backup cameras and parking sensors for safe maneuvering
- GPS tracking in case of theft or loss
-Extra fuel tanks for long hauls to minimize refueling stops
-Liability insurance and roadside assistance in case of emergencies
By carefully evaluating the features that matter most for your needs, you can choose a freezer van rent that will get the job done right. Focus on size, temperature control, loading/unloading, and any important extras to find a van well-suited to your cargo hauling requirements.
The Benefits of Renting vs Buying a Refrigerated Van
Cost Savings
Hire freezer van is typically much more affordable than purchasing one outright. Buying a refrigerated vehicle requires a major upfront investment that can cost $50,000 or more for a decent used model and well over $100,000 for a new van. Renting eliminates that huge initial outlay of cash so you can allocate your funds elsewhere.
Flexibility
Leasing a chiller van rental different sizes and types of vans based on your current needs. If you buy a van, you’re stuck with that specific vehicle whether you need that much space or not. Renting allows you to upsize or downsize whenever your requirements change. You also have the freedom to switch between refrigerated vans, dry vans, and trucks.
Lower Maintenance
With a rented refrigerated van, the leasing company handles all the maintenance, repairs and insurance. They take care of routine services like oil changes, tune-ups, tire rotations, brake jobs and more. If there are any major mechanical issues, they also pay for those costly repairs. You get to drive a well-maintained vehicle without the hassle and expense of keeping it running.
Short-Term Use
For temporary or seasonal refrigerated transportation needs, renting is really your only practical option. If you only need a refrigerated van for a few months to transport perishable goods, buying one solely for short-term use doesn’t make sense financially or logistically. Renting allows you to have a refrigerated vehicle just for the time period you actually require it.
In summary, renting a refrigerated van rather than buying one can save your business a good amount of money while also providing more flexibility and convenience. Unless you have long-term, year-round need for a refrigerated vehicle, leasing refrigerated vans on an as-needed basis is typically the smartest choice.
How to Find a Refrigerated Van for Rent
So you need a chiller van rental for your business, but don’t want the commitment of buying one. Renting is a great option to get the temporary use of a refrigerated vehicle without a long-term contract. But how do you find the right refrigerated van for rent?
Check Local Rental Companies
Start by searching online for “refrigerated van rentals” along with your city name. This will turn up dedicated van rental companies in your area that offer refrigerated vehicles. Some reputable national chains like Penske and Ryder may have refrigerated cargo vans and small box trucks available for rent on a daily, weekly or monthly basis.
Consider Van Leasing Brokers
Van leasing brokers, like Enterprise, Hertz and U-Haul, also arrange short-term rentals of refrigerated vans and trucks. They work with various fleets and private van owners to provide rentals. Using a broker can give you more options to choose from in one place.
Compare Costs and Features
Compare the rental rates and available features of different refrigerated vans to determine the best value for your needs and budget. Things like the van size, age, mileage, and temperature range can affect the price. Newer models with more advanced refrigeration units and additional interior features will typically cost more. For a short rental, you may be fine with an older, more basic refrigerated van.
Inspect the Van Before Renting
Once you choose a refrigerated van that suits your needs, inspect it thoroughly before signing the rental agreement and driving off. Check that the refrigeration unit is functioning properly and maintaining the correct temperature. Look for any damage or issues with the van that could affect its performance for your rental period. It’s best to address any concerns before finalizing your rental.
With some research, you can find an affordable refrigerated van for rent to suit your unique business needs. Comparing different rental companies, options and rates will help ensure you get the right refrigerated vehicle at the best price. And inspecting the van before renting gives you confidence in its ability to properly refrigerate during the rental period. With the right refrigerated van, you can keep your business moving.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the key things to consider when renting a refrigerated van for your business. The size, temperature control, and rental company are all important factors that will determine whether the van meets your needs. Do some research on different companies and check reviews from other customers. Make sure you understand all the costs involved, not just the daily rental rate. And don’t forget to test the temperature controls before loading the van to ensure proper cooling. Choosing the right refrigerated van is critical for transporting temperature-sensitive cargo. Follow these tips and you’ll be well on your way to finding a van that keeps your business moving.
