Hiring A Refrigerated Van - Three Tips To Consider

by Aiden Goh Author

Transporting goods is a necessity for most businesses, but for some, the need to maintain a certain temperature in the transporting vehicle is very important. Some examples are businesses dealing with foods and beverages, vintage art, and pharmaceutical companies. For these businesses, the perfect temperature is required to keep the transported items viable and intact. The solution is, of course, refrigerated vans. But, do you know how to hire one? In this post, we share with you three important tips you should follow to get a refrigerated van on hire in Birmingham or other cities in the UK.

Tip No. 1 - Learn the temperature requirement

The temperature requirement will depend on the goods you are transporting. You will have to choose between chiller vans, freezer vans and temperature-controlled vans. For example, pharmaceutical companies may require temperature-controlled vans since vaccinations and medicines are usually stored at temperatures ranging between 2°C and 8°C - higher or lower temperatures may lead to loss of potency. Similarly, if you want to transport ice creams, you need a freezer van which can maintain the temperature at -20°C.

Identifying your need is important to get a refrigerated van suiting the temperature requirements of the goods to be transported.

Tip No. 2 - Know the terrain and length of the journey

Many people overlook this consideration, the terrain on which the van will be travelling. Will the van travel on smooth motorways, narrow country roads, or will it be ferried across water bodies? You should discuss these requirements with professional van service providers. They can then guide you on the options available in their fleet. Another important thing you need to discuss and get surety on is that the fridge van you hire will maintain the temperature for the entire length of the journey. The purpose of hiring the van is to ensure all your goods reach the destination without any damage.

Sharing the details of your requirement with experienced professionals is important to help them understand your requirement and suggest a van accordingly.

Tip 3 - Know the Contract Period For the Van

Most companies will offer refrigerated vans on hire on a short-term and long-term contract. Read the contract before signing to understand all the details. Who will be responsible for the maintenance? What are the processes you need to follow to keep the temperature intact at all times? All these should be clearly mentioned in the contract. Every van is built differently and will come with a different set of care instructions, which you will need to remember and follow during the contract period.

Understanding the terms and conditions, warranties, costs involved and other contractual details will go a long way in helping you deliver goods in excellent condition at all times.

Summing up the post, the refrigerated rental vans come in different sizes and space capacities. Having a clear knowledge of your requirements will help you hire a van that meets your transport needs.