Why Should You Convert An Existing Van To A Refrigerated Van

If you are in the food service industry, it is important to have a refrigerated van for transporting your goods. Converting an existing van to a refrigerated van is a great way to get into the food distribution business. It can be done on a budget and with very little investment. 

Converting a Van

The biggest benefit of converting an existing van is that it is cheap and easy. You don’t have to buy a new refrigerated van, just outfit your existing vehicle with one. If you already have a truck, then you’re already halfway there already!

Converting your existing van can offer a number of advantages over buying a new vehicle. For example, you may have an older model that’s perfectly serviceable but needs some minor upgrading. Or, you might be looking for an economical way to transport goods or passengers around the country without having to buy another vehicle.

Pallet Protection - BHRV Refrigerated Vans

Reasons To Convert Your Existing Van

There are several reasons why converting an existing van to a refrigerated van is the better option than purchasing one from the manufacturer.

If you want to convert an existing van into a refrigerated van, there are no limits as to how much you can customise it. You can choose from a huge range of options when it comes to the design and layout of your van, including:

  • Engine type
  • Body type
  • Colour scheme
  • And more! 

It’s also possible to add accessories such as GPS navigation systems, Bluetooth systems and more! Plus, this means that if you ever decide you want to change something about your conversion, it’s easy enough just to upgrade it as needed.

It Can Be Cheaper!

The cost of converting an existing van will be much lower than purchasing a new one from the manufacturer. You can use this money for other things, like upgrading your equipment or adding more products to your inventory. You will be able to use the same vehicle that you already have and all of the modifications will be done by professionals who have been trained in this type of work.

Converting an existing vehicle will take less time than completely building out a new one from scratch. This allows you to get back on the road faster and begin making more money sooner than expected. 

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Different Types Of Refrigerators

There are many different types of refrigerators that can be used in your converted van, which means more options when picking out the right one for your business needs and budget constraints.

You don’t have to buy any new equipment or infrastructure. All it takes is some extra insulation, some modifications, and some extra insulation!

If your van breaks down, you won’t lose your entire inventory. You can still use the vehicle for other purposes until it’s repaired — or even sell it off for parts if necessary (although we recommend against doing this).

There are many different types of conversion kits available for van owners who want to convert their vehicles into refrigerated units for transporting perishable products. The best thing about these kits is that they allow you to transport any type of food item or beverage without having to worry about any issues with temperature control or safety during transit.

If you are going to buy another new vehicle, then there will be no extra profit margin for you because the price of the refrigerated van will be fixed at the dealership where it was bought from. However, if you convert an existing vehicle into a refrigerated van, then there will be more profit potential for you because there is no fixed price for this type of conversion work and any amount above the actual cost of converting your vehicle into a refrigerated one will be considered profit by everyone involved in this project including yourself!

Better For The Environment

If you are worried about the environment, converting your existing van into a refrigerated vehicle will help reduce carbon emissions from trucks on the road, which means less pollution in our air and water supply. Using old vans for food delivery also saves money because you aren’t contributing more vehicles to the road – which helps keep them out of landfills.

You will have a more reliable vehicle than if you had purchased one that was already converted since many companies that sell refrigeration units do not have the experience in maintaining them or repairing them if they break down while they are on the road delivering products or services. At BHRV, we offer conversions, new vans and used vans to our customers. Should you like to know more about what we have to offer, then please waste no time and be sure to contact us.

You will be able to use the same battery and charging system as with non-refrigerated vans, which means less expense when it comes time to replace these items. You may not need to purchase a new set of tyres for your existing van, which can add up to hundreds of pounds over time.

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Choose BHRV For Van Conversions

If you’re thinking about starting up your own business and need vehicles for transporting goods or delivering food, then converting a refrigerated van can be incredibly beneficial for your financial situation. We’re here to offer a solution to your needs regarding refrigerated vans. Simply get in touch with our team today for more information about our refrigerated vans.

Refrigerated Vans: FAQs

The following are some questions you may have about refrigerated vans.

Refrigerated Vans: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a refrigerated van?

A: A refrigerated van is a vehicle that has been modified to carry temperature-sensitive products. The vehicle has been fitted with a commercial grade refrigerator and may have other features such as air conditioning, heating or dehumidifiers.

Q: How do I get my refrigerated van?

A: You can either buy it from our stock or we can source a vehicle for you. Please note that we sell new and used vans.

Q: Do I need to use a refrigerated van for my business?

A: Yes. If you want to transport any perishable goods, such as food, flowers or medical supplies, you will need to purchase a refrigerated van.

Q: What size of refrigerated van do I need?

A: The size of the van depends on your needs, but it is recommended that you choose one with at least 10 cubic feet per cubic foot of storage space. This will allow for proper air circulation inside the van when it is being used for its intended purpose – transporting perishable goods.

Q: How long does it take to cool my van?

A: This depends on the size of your van and what you require it for. In general, you can expect it to take 15-20 minutes to cool a van down to 5 degrees Celsius.

Q: What temperature do refrigerated vans keep at?

A: Our vans will usually be set at around 5 degrees Celsius. This is ideal for transporting meat, fish, dairy products and other foods that need to be stored at this temperature range.

Q: How much space do I need inside my refrigerated van?

A: The size of your van will depend on what you use it for. If you want additional storage space, then we recommend opting for our extra long model which comes with a full length top box as standard – perfect if you need more room for your stock!

Q: What is the difference between a refrigerated van and a refrigerated truck?

A: A refrigerated van is a smaller vehicle, usually with a single axle, that’s designed to carry either food or medical supplies. A refrigerated truck is a larger vehicle with multiple axles and the capacity to transport goods over long distances.

Q: How do I know if my van needs refrigeration?

A: Refrigerated vans are used for many different types of applications including but not limited to: medical, food service, retail and beverage distribution. If you’re unsure whether your business requires a refrigerated van or not, please consult with one of our knowledgeable account managers who will be happy to help you determine if you need one!

Q: Should I choose a petrol-powered or electric-powered vehicle?

A: It depends on what type of job you have in mind. If you need to drive long distances with minimal stopping, then an electric vehicle would be best suited for this situation. However, if you only need to drive short distances and stop frequently during the day (such as food delivery), then a petrol or diesel-powered vehicle would be fine.

Q: How can I find out if my chosen brand of refrigerated van has been recalled?

A: You should visit the website of The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to see if there have been any issues with your chosen make and model of vehicle. This will help you avoid possible problems with your new purchase later on down the line.

Q: Can I buy a pre-owned refrigerated van?

A: Yes, although it is important to check the condition of the vehicle before buying it. You should also take into account whether it has been damaged or repaired in the past. At BHRV, we stock a wide range of new and used vans so be sure to browse our stock or get in touch to discover more.

Q: Do I need a permit to drive a refrigerated van?

A: You will need a licence to drive the vehicle and there are some restrictions on where you can go with it. It is also important to note that your vehicle must be insured and registered in your name before you take it out on the road.

Q: What are the benefits of using a refrigerated van?

A: The main benefit of using a refrigerated van is that it provides added protection for your perishable products. The temperature inside the vehicle is controlled by an automatic thermostat, which maintains a constant temperature between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 5°C). This ensures that your product arrives at its destination in perfect condition.

Q: What is the difference between a refrigerated van and a freezer truck?

A: A refrigerated van is used for transporting perishable goods, like fresh produce and meat products. A freezer truck is used for transporting frozen goods, like ice cream or frozen fish.

Jiffy Vans; How To Choose A Refrigerated Van For Catering

Refrigerated jiffy vans are a great choice for catering companies, as they can carry a large amount of food and drinks. They also offer the best protection to your products, keeping them at a consistent temperature during transport. These are great reasons to choose a refrigerated van for catering purposes.

Reasons to Choose A Refrigerated Van For Catering

When choosing a refrigerated van for catering, there are many things to take into consideration. The most important thing to consider when choosing a refrigerated van is how much food you will be transporting. If you are just taking a few items, such as sandwiches, then a smaller van will suit your needs perfectly. If, however, you are transporting large quantities of food, such as meals and salads, then a larger refrigerated van would be best suited to your needs.

A refrigerated jiffy van is a great asset for any business that deals with food. It can be used to transport products from the warehouse to the store, or even for deliveries to customers.

Two Types Of Refrigerated Vans

There are two main types of refrigerated vans available; insulated and non-insulated vans. Insulated vans have an insulation layer between the inside of the van and outside temperature which helps keep items cool for longer periods of time than non-insulated ones. Non-insulated vans are cheaper but they also lose heat more quickly than insulated ones so will not work as well in warm climates or when parked outside during hot weather.

The Size Of The Van 

Larger vans can carry more food and equipment which makes them ideal for larger events or catering companies with multiple chefs on board. Smaller vans will be better suited for those who want to carry fewer items or who do not need a vehicle that can carry large amounts of food at once.

Refrigerated vans come in many different styles and sizes so it is important that you pick one that fits your needs perfectly. Some models offer increased insulation while others have extra storage space as well as refrigeration features built into them while some have both features combined into one unit.

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Types Of Refrigeration Units

The first thing you will have to think about is what type of refrigeration unit you would like. There are various options available including gas and electric fridges.

Gas fridges are very expensive but will not use any electricity so this means that they can save you money in the long run. However, they do have disadvantages because they require regular maintenance and cleaning which can be expensive if your van is not used regularly.

Electric fridges work by using an electric current to create cold air which then cools down your food or drinks inside the fridge compartment. These are usually cheaper than gas fridges but may use more energy and therefore be more expensive over time.

Storage Space – How much space do I need? This is probably one of the most important considerations when choosing a refrigerated van for catering use, as it will determine whether or not the vehicle will be able to hold all of your equipment and supplies. If there isn’t enough room in the back of the vehicle then this can cause problems when transporting goods around town, especially if they need to be kept cold at all times. 

Your Budget

Before making any purchase, it is important that you consider your budget first. You need to ensure that you have enough money saved up to purchase a new van for your business. This way, you will not end up overspending on an item that is unnecessary or too expensive for your needs.

Some models come with built-in freezers or refrigerators while others feature shelves that need to be installed separately. Some also come equipped with sinks while others do not (or at least not one per person). These differences will affect how much money it costs to operate each vehicle as well as how much work it takes to maintain them properly.

The Performance Of Your Van

The performance of your refrigerated jiffy van should also be considered before making any purchases. There are many different types of vehicles available on the market today, but not all of them have the same performance levels. Some vans may be faster than others while others may be able to carry more weight or offer better fuel economy ratings than others. It’s important that you find out which vehicles perform better than others before making any decisions about which ones might be right for your business needs.

If your employees are going to be riding in the vehicle with their supplies then it’s important that they have enough room to sit comfortably while driving around town delivering orders. If they have enough room then they won’t feel cramped or uncomfortable when travelling long distances either which could lead to accidents on the road or delays due to fatigue from driving. 

Bhrv Van - BHRV Refrigerated Vans

For Refrigerated Vans For Catering, Choose BHRV

If you’re looking to purchase a refrigerated van for your catering needs, be sure to give our team at BHRV a call. We have a wide range of new and used vans available, meaning you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for with us.

Please be sure to get in touch with our team today to find out more about our vans and how we can help you.

How To Protect Your Refrigerated Van This Summer

Protecting Your Refrigerated Van This Summer

Summer is the season for road trips and family holidays, but it can also be a stressful time when you’re in charge of transporting perishable food. You want to make sure your refrigerated van is protected so your food stays safe and cold. 

The hot, humid Summer season can be a dangerous time for refrigerated vans. The intense heat of the sun and the fact that they are often parked outside in public places make it easy for refrigerated vans to encounter damage or malfunction. But you can take steps to reduce the amount of damage your refrigerated van will experience this summer.

How To Protect Refrigerated Vans

Here are some tips on how to protect your refrigerated vans this summer:

Before you even get in your truck for delivery, think about where you’re going and how long it will take to get there. If you’re travelling through heavily trafficked areas or areas where there are lots of stoplights, it’s best not to leave early in the morning or late at night when it’s still hot outside. Ideally, plan your route so that you can arrive at your destination after sunrise or before sunset—or at least when there are fewer cars on the road.

Make sure your refrigerated unit has proper ventilation. A well-ventilated unit will allow hot air to escape and cold air to circulate.

Pallet Protection - BHRV Refrigerated Vans

Maintaining Your Refrigeration Van

Keeping your coolant level full is just as important as checking your tyre pressure. Over time, coolant can evaporate from your engine — which can cause overheating issues — or even worse, lead to engine failure altogether! Make sure that you check the coolant levels at least once a month during the Summer months so that you know when it’s time for an oil change or other routine maintenance services.

Replace old parts with new ones. Check belts, gaskets and hoses regularly and replace them if they are worn out or cracked because they can cause leaks that lead to rusting of the cooling system.

Use an insulated cover. When you’re not driving with your refrigerated van uncovered, use an insulated cover that has vents to allow air flow through the back window area. This will help keep temperatures down inside while still allowing fresh air in through the vents.

Tyres play a big role in how well your ride performs. If your tyres are low on air or worn out, they will have a negative impact on how well your vehicle performs in all conditions. The same goes for your refrigerated van — if you don’t keep up with tyre maintenance, it could lead to some major problems on the road.

Check the temperature gauge frequently to see if there are any fluctuations in temperature levels within your refrigerated van. If there are any fluctuations in temperature levels, then check for leaks and fix them immediately before they become larger problems that may cause damage to other parts of your unit such as wiring or electronics.

Keep windows tinted. Tinting your windows can help keep the temperature inside your van from rising too high. If you have tinted windows, be sure to check them regularly for peeling or cracking. If these problems arise, get them repaired right away so that the damage doesn’t get worse over time.

Always keep your vans cool. A fully charged battery and a full tank of fuel will help ensure that your refrigeration unit works properly in extreme temperatures.

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Make Sure Everything Is Working Properly

Make sure everything is hooked up correctly and working properly before pulling out onto the road. If there’s a leak somewhere, it could cause damage to other parts of the van as well as potentially cause a fire hazard.

When loading up your refrigerated van with cargo, make sure you leave plenty of room for air circulation at all times. If there are no vents or windows on the vehicle, consider drilling holes into the side panel to allow airflow through the cabin.

Adjust the thermostat in your van so that it reads between 38°F and 40°F every hour of operation. This will keep the temperature stable for longer periods of time throughout the day.

When possible, park in shaded areas where there’s no direct sunlight shining onto your vehicle’s roof or sides — this will help keep heat out of your cargo area during peak hours when temperatures are highest. 

Covering the roof of your van with a sunshade will help cut down on heat buildup inside the vehicle. A sunshade can also help protect against damaging UV rays that may cause discolouration or fading on your equipment.

For Refrigerated Vans, Call BHRV

If you’re looking for a refrigerated van for your business, call on none other than BHRV. We have new and used vans available, so no matter your needs and requirements we’re confident in saying that we can help. We also have advice on how to protect your car in the Winter months too.

Simply speak to our team today to find out more about our refrigerated vans for sale. We will be happy to help in any way we can.

New Vs Used Refrigerated Vans

If you’ve been considering investing in a refrigerated vehicle, either for yourself as a freelance driver, or for your business to add to your fleet, one of the biggest questions to consider is whether to go for a new or used vehicle. There are several things to consider before committing to one or another, as well as ensuring you fully understand the function of a refrigerated vehicle. Our team at BHRV have worked hard to put together this guide to help you decide whether a new or used refrigerated van is right for you. 

What Does A Refrigerated Van Do?

Refrigerated vans are used in the transport of chilled and frozen goods. This can include pharmaceutical supplies, like vaccines and some medications that must be kept at a cool temperature, and food, which includes raw meat, fresh fruit and vegetables, or frozen food. All of these products follow a cold chain that guarantees that from point of origin to distribution, the goods are kept in good condition and stay fresh throughout the journey. 

A refrigerated van operates in a similar way to your home fridge or freezer, where an insulated, airtight compartment is used to dissolve heat from the outside to ensure the cargo inside stays cool. Refrigerated vans range from 8C to -18C or lower, depending on the type of goods required for transport. 

The Pros and Cons of Buying Used

There are many reasons why older refrigerated vans are preferred to newer ones. Some of the pros and cons of choosing to invest in a used refrigerated van includes:

Pros: 

Cheaper Alternative: It’s hard to deny the appeal of a lower price tag, after all, why pay for a more expensive solution when you can buy cheaper? The age-old objection to this is ‘you get what you pay for’ and while this is typically the case, refrigerated vehicles are designed to last for years and retain their quality to make sure that goods are transported safely, meaning even buying used you’re getting high quality. 

Performance History: When buying used, you have the option to inquire about the history of your vehicle’s performance – how often it required maintenance, any faults it experienced, how reliable it was. While it’s easy to assume newer vehicles automatically come with these assurances, it isn’t always guaranteed, whereas a used vehicle has a history that can be traced. 

Cons: 

No Warranties: By the time you purchase your used refrigerated van, chances are the warranty that came from the manufacturer has expired. This can be problematic if a breakdown or fault occurs as it could be costly to repair and have no coverage from a warranty, meaning a replacement refrigerated vehicle may be required. However, if you purchase from a certified second-hand vehicle provider they may offer a warranty that covers certain issues. 

Aged Technology: One of the biggest risks that come with purchasing any second hand vehicles is the fact that technology could be outdated and not up to current regulated standards. This could mean that the refrigeration unit, the interior racking and shelving, and any insulation features will need to be replaced before use. 

9 - BHRV Refrigerated Vehicle Specialist

The Pros and Cons of Buying New

 An alternative to buying used, new refrigerated vehicles are a popular choice for businesses looking to update their fleet, but the pros and cons to consider about buying new includes: 

Pros:

Covered Under Warranty: New refrigerated vans are much more likely to hold a manufacturers warranty, which means your van will be repaired or replaced under warranty should it develop a fault. With refrigerated vehicles, this applies to the same faults regular vehicles can develop, but also covers any technical issues that may arise with the refrigeration unit to make sure your van stays running reliably. 

Modern Technology: When you’re purchasing a new refrigerated vehicle, you know all of the bobs and whistles will be up to date with current standards and be well equipped for use year round, managing the sweltering heat of summer and the freezing winter temperatures. Newer vans are also much easier to modify, with spaces available to extend racking or shelves and install plastic flaps to help with insulation during loading and unloading. Even cooling temperatures can be modified to allow for different goods. 

Cons:

Bigger Price Tag: When buying any new vehicle, buying new over used always comes with a greater price tag. However, with refrigerated vans, you’re also paying for a high quality refrigeration unit that has been unused until you transport your first load of goods, meaning there shouldn’t be any hidden faults and any that do develop will be covered under manufacturers warranty. 

Still unsure? BHRV can help!

Still can’t decide whether a new or used refrigerated van is for you? Don’t worry, here at BHRV, we’re industry experts committed to providing you with advice and guidance to help you make the right choice. We’re just a phone call away so please feel free to get in touch with our friendly and experienced team today! 

Maintaining Your Refrigerated Van in Winter

While it’s important to ensure your refrigerated vehicle is properly maintained year round, winter offers many unique challenges to vehicle owners in general, and refrigerated vans must be properly maintained to avoid any adverse effects from the cold weather. Facing down wind, rain, snow, and storms, you and your refrigerated van will have to face down the very worst of the British weather, and a poorly maintained van may struggle. Here at BHRV, our team has years of experience in the refrigerated vehicle industry and have put together this helpful guide to assist you in how to keep your refrigerated van in top condition even in the worst weather conditions. 

Pay Attention to Warning Lights

Warning lights are visible on your vehicle’s dashboard and light up for a reason, to catch your attention and make you aware of any problems. Many vans operate on a traffic light system, with a green warning light indicating no problems, a yellow light indicating an issue, and a red light indicating a potentially dangerous problem. Reacting quickly to these warning signs could mean the difference between paying for a repair, or paying for a replacement refrigerated vehicle. Some of the warning signs to look for include: 

Brake Light

A problem is indicated if this light stays on after fully releasing your parking brake or if it comes on while driving. Typically, it means brake fluid is low and is recommended you take it to a professional. If your ABS light is also illuminated, this is a sign that the braking system is malfunctioning and your brakes may not be working properly. 

Power Steering Light

This light comes on when there’s an issue with your power steering, which could affect your ability to turn. For refrigerated vans, sharp turning can damage the cargo in the refrigeration unit and make the goods unusable. Always get your power steering checked if this light stays on after resetting your vehicle. 

Engine Temperature Light

When the engine is overheating, this light comes on. An overheating engine can cause several problems with a regular vehicle, but this problem with a refrigerated van also risks heat altering the refrigeration system and spoiling goods being transported. The damage caused by an overheating engine can be irreparable, so to avoid issues, get it checked as soon as this light appears. 

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Windscreen and Lights

Gritty, wet road conditions can lead to your windscreen and headlights getting covered in dirt and grime sprayed up by other vehicles on the road, which is why it’s essential to check the condition of your windscreen, wiper blades, and headlights regularly. This is to ensure that there isn’t any damage, but also to make sure that your vision is not impaired by dirt and grime on the road. Though unlikely, your refrigeration unit and any conversions made should also be properly checked and sealed before each new journey to make sure none of the dirt from the road can get inside the unit and contaminate goods. 

Ensure Vehicle is Regularly Serviced

For both an independent driver and business, having your refrigerated van off the road and sitting in a garage for a service can be a pain and have an effect on income from transport. However, to keep your van, cargo, and driver safe, regular servicing is recommended and it’s even more important to undergo a service before winter to make sure everything is operating as it should be. Depending on the vehicle, services should be undertaken either every 12,000 miles or every 12 months, whichever comes first – the owner’s manual of your refrigerated vehicle should advise if this is different for your van. Whether you have a brand new refrigerated van in time for winter, or you’re using a second-hand refrigerated vehicle, keeping up to date on servicing is highly recommended in time for winter. 

Be Prepared For Anything

We recommend keeping an emergency kit in the footwell of your refrigerated van, containing supplies should the worst occur and your vehicle suffers a breakdown mid transport in snow, sleet, or other adverse weather conditions. This kit should contain: 

Mobile Phone and Portable Charger: Not only is this essential for arranging roadside assistance in the event of a breakdown, but allows you to contact your employer to alert them of the breakdown so that they can send support to collect your cargo and transport it to its destination without breaking the cold chain

Shovel, Scraper, and De-icer: Snow and ice can cause several problems and, in extreme conditions, trap you in your vehicle. Keep the area around your refrigerated van free of snow build up by using a shovel and keep your windscreen and windows ice free by combining a reliable de-icer and ice scraper. 

Warm Clothing and Waterproof Footwear: With no access to heat, keeping warm is your main priority when breaking down in cold weather. Your refrigerated van will provide some insulation, but make sure you have a good set of warm clothing or a blanket to hand as well as footwear like wellies to keep your feet warm and dry until help arrives.

Want more information? Get in touch with BHRV now! 

There are many other great ways to make sure your refrigerated vehicle stays up and running throughout the winter months, and our experienced team at BHRV are here to help! Whether you’re looking for ways to maintain your current van, or you’re debating upgrading to a new or used refrigerated vehicle, we’re happy to offer advice and guidance for making sure your refrigerated van stays operational during even the worst of the winter weather, so please feel free to get in touch with us today! We even have advice for protecting your refrigerated van in the summer.

Signs you Should Replace your Refrigerated Van

As with any vehicle, over time your refrigerated van will become less efficient and there’ll come a time when you’ll need to seriously consider replacing your van with a newer model to ensure standards are kept up to code. There are many things to look out for as your refrigerated vehicle gets older, and here at BHRV, our team of industry experts have put together this guide to help you. 

The Problems of a Poorly Performing Refrigerated Van

A refrigerated van’s performance can be impacted in a variety of ways, from the breaking down of the refrigeration unit, to damage causing a loss of insulation that affects the internal temperatures. These issues can lead to food that is being transported to spoil or pharmaceutical supplies, such as vaccines, to be unusable. These issues can be costly for a business, who have taken the time to procure the product, arrange transportation, and expect some form of return from the sale and distribution of goods. 

It’s important to regularly check your refrigerated vehicle for faults or damage. Catching something early could mean the difference between paying the cost of a repair or forking out for an all out replacement. While your refrigerated vehicle will eventually need to be replaced, you can prolong its lifespan by keeping up with maintenance that you can have done professionally or by yourself. Some basic maintenance tips include: 

Regularly Clean your Refrigerated Vehicle

Not only is it important to keep your vehicle clean and tidy for goods, but cross contamination is a real thing that could impact the quality of food and pharmaceutical stock you’re transporting. It’s particularly important when raw meat or with common allergens to prevent the stock from becoming unusable. Aside from this, regularly cleaning your refrigerated vehicle allows you to check for damage or leakages that could lead to issues further down the line. 

Arrange Regular Inspections

An expert mechanic should regularly check your vehicle to ensure that the refrigeration unit is functioning as it should be, but also that the rest of your van is working properly. This means inspecting the engine, brakes, clutch, and any electrical components required to keep your refrigerated vehicle up and running. It’s recommended that an inspection should take place every 25,000 miles, however newer refrigerated vehicles may be able to run for over 100,000 miles before they need an inspection. Any problems found in these inspections can help to inform you about whether a repair or replacement is necessary.

Perform Routine Tune-Ups 

Checking oil and coolant levels and making sure your oil is clean is one of the most basic things you can do for your vehicle, as well as making sure your oil is regularly changed every 3,000 miles. Tuning-up a refrigerated vehicle differs slightly in that they are especially sensitive to build ups of dust, water, and dirt, which can negatively impact their performance in maintaining a consistent temperature in the refrigerated area. This is why when performing a tune-up on your refrigerated van, you should be especially aware when looking out for contaminants that could have gotten into the refrigeration unit, be it summer or winter, maintaining your vehicle is the best way to prolong its lifespan. Letting water, dust, or dirt sit in the unit can lead to future breakdowns that mean a replacement vehicle is needed. 

2 - BHRV Refrigerated Vehicle Specialist

How Can I Tell My Refrigerated Van Needs Replacing?

If you’ve followed all the essential maintenance steps we have outlined above and still find that your vehicle is experiencing issues, it may be time to consider a replacement, but you can decide whether you want to invest in a new or used refrigerated van. Unlike regular vehicles that you can theoretically use until they give up, a refrigerated vehicle needs to be kept in top condition to make sure the goods you’re transporting arrive at their destination in accordance with the cold chain put forward by the manufacturer of the food, pharmaceuticals, or other chilled products you’re moving. Some conversions may be performed to prolong lifespan, but common signs your refrigerated van needs replacing includes:

External Damage: Though the refrigeration unit of your vehicle has quite a dense shell, it’s still possible for external damage (gashes, cracks, deep scratches) to break through to the refrigerated space, which causes a change in temperature that impacts the quality of goods. 

Irreparable Faults: One of the most frustrating parts of owning a vehicle is the fact that faults over time are inevitable, and the same applies to refrigerated vehicles. If your vehicle develops a fault that can’t be repaired by a mechanic, or the cost to repair is more than the cost of replacement, the latter is usually the recommended option. 

Trouble Maintaining Temperature: The most important part of a refrigerated vehicle is the cool temperatures they keep. If your refrigerated vehicle is having trouble maintaining its temperature in the storage unit, a replacement is highly recommended, especially if the issue stems from external damage or an irreparable fault. 

Still not sure? Let us help! 

Our team at BHRV are industry experts with years of experience providing new and used refrigerated vans and can offer advice and guidance on replacing your existing vehicle. If you would like to speak to a member of our team, please don’t hesitate to get in touch

The Cold Chain and Your Refrigerated Van

Refrigerated vans are essential for transporting a variety of goods, such as frozen and chilled food, fresh fruit and vegetables, medication, some cosmetics, and more. Chilled and frozen products must complete a ‘cold chain’ before they can be sold to or used by the customer to ensure they are safe to be distributed. During transportation, refrigerated vehicles make keeping frozen and chilled products safe from production to distribution a lot easier.

What is the Cold Chain?

The cold chain is something that is used when it comes to guaranteeing quality for frozen and chilled goods, such as food and some medications. The chain begins with the product being moved from its natural environment – such as taking a fish from the sea or medication from a laboratory. The basic idea of a cold chain is to make sure an item remains at a consistent temperature from point of origin to distribution throughout each stage of the journey to ensure it is arriving as fresh as the moment its journey started.

Seafood Cold Chain

When it is freshly caught, the quality of the product is high. As time passes, this quality deteriorates as the fish begins to decay, which is caused by the vitamins and minerals within the body breaking down. At this point, it’s not good to eat and in some cases, it can be extremely dangerous to consume spoiled seafood. 

Fresh seafood should be stored at 0 degrees and frozen should be kept at -18 degrees or lower throughout the complete chain. A change in temperature of even 1 degrees can impact the quality of the product and cause food wastage, which in turn leads to time and effort spent harvesting and transporting the product a waste also. 

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Pharmaceutical Cold Chain

The cold chain is a basic requirement for the transportation of pharmaceutical goods, such as vaccines and some medications. With the recent Covid-19 pandemic, the importance of stocking vaccines and making sure they’re usable. Vaccines are especially sensitive to both heat and freezing and need to be kept at a precise temperature throughout the journey from origin to destination. 

Temperature sensitive vaccines should be kept between 2 and 8 degrees in a cold room or refrigerator – making refrigerated vans an ideal solution for transport – or between -15 and -25C in a freezer. The temperatures of refrigerated vans can be adjusted accordingly to suit transportation needs. 

How Your Refrigerated Van Helps The Cold Chain

The temperature of a standard refrigerated fridge van ranges from 0 to 8 degrees while freezer refrigerated vans tend to be -18 degrees. Your van can be easily adapted to suit the needs of your business, whether you courier food or pharmaceuticals, or any other product that requires the cold chain before sale. 

The make of the van isn’t particularly important as most are adaptable to fit specific needs and here at BHRV, we stock a variety of both new and used refrigerated vans from trusted manufacturers, such as Ford, Volkswagen, Citroen, Mercedes, and Renault, giving you a range of options to choose from.

Will My Refrigerated Van be Enough?

These vehicles are designed with the transportation of chilled and frozen goods in mind, so the standard models are typically already fully equipped with everything required to ensure the standards of the cold chain are met. However, conversions can be made if required, such as: 

Additional Racking: To provide extra storage space for larger deliveries, there are a number of racking options available to suit whatever you’re transporting.

Electric Standby: Allowing you to plug in your van to a mains supply to let you keep your goods refrigerated while the van is off for extended periods. 

Strip Curtains: Which are designed to provide insulation and maintain cool temperatures during loading and unloading of the vehicle, whether in summer or winter

Generally, newer models of refrigerated vans are better adapted, but speak to a member of our team at BHRV for more information about how refrigerated vans can be adjusted to suit your requirements. It’s also essential you keep on top of repairs and know when its time to replace your refrigerated van to ensure your goods get from A to B in good condition, though you have the option of replacing your vehicle with a new or used refrigerated van that can be converted to suit your requirements.

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Want to know more? BHRV is here to help! 

Trying to find a refrigerated vehicle that is suitable for cold chain specifications may seem daunting. Our team at BHRV are industry experts when it comes to supplying refrigerated vans for the transportation of goods. If you have any questions about the role refrigerated vans have to play in the cold chain or if you’re looking for advice and guidance before committing to a purchase, we’re here to help! Get in touch with us now, we can’t wait to hear from you!  

Our Ultimate Guide To Refrigerated Vans

Whether you already have a business set up that requires refrigerated vans or freezer vans, or you are planning on setting up a company that requires them, they are an excellent asset for companies that need to transport perishable goods. They are necessary for businesses that deal in fruit, vegetables, fresh produce, and even medical supplies. Using a refrigerated truck or van gives yourself the best opportunity to provide your customers with outstanding produce and delivery; this also considers your customers’ health and safety, which is the utmost important aspect of transporting any goods. 

If you are trying to maintain or increase your company’s reputation, correctly transporting your goods is one of the best ways. You also need to make sure you are on the right side of any health and safety rules and laws that cover the items you are distributing, for example, if your products need to be refrigerated, they need to be delivered in a van that can keep the temperature between 0 + 8 degrees. All it takes is one incredibly sunny and hot day, which we know doesn’t happen as often as we would like in the UK, to ruin your entire van of produce without a temperature-controlled area. Don’t put your company’s stock at risk and jeopardise the chance to make profits by not having the right equipment to transport your items safely. 

The process of buying a refrigerated van might not be as straightforward as it sounds; there is a range of factors that need to be considered before buying or even renting a van for your business. You need to decide the size of van you need, think about how much load you need to transport daily, and what temperature the van will need to be kept at to work effectively. The main thing to consider is if you are planning on expanding in the future or increasing the number of products you offer, whether or not the van you buy now will be suitable then, they are not cheap, so it is essential to consider this. 

The most significant consideration is whether a refrigerated van is right for you? Our team at BHRV has been providing customers with refrigerated vans and hiring our refrigerated vans to companies far and wide. Not only that, but we can carry out complete refrigeration conversion services if you already have a van. To find out more, get in touch with one of our team members today. We have several years of experience in our field and can help you find the right refrigerated van for you.

Do You Need A Refrigerated Van?

It might come as a shock to you to hear that the range of companies and businesses that can benefit from a refrigerated van is more than just food companies; having worked in the industry for several years, we have put together a shortlist of the top handful of companies we have worked with over the years. 

Catering Firms – One of the most prominent companies that would use a refrigerated van is a caterer; this allows them to safely transport food and beverages without health and hygiene regulations, including sandwiches and cakes, ideal for a local bakery! 

Florists – One of the most important aspects of a floristry company that delivers is a van that can be kept cold enough, so the bouquets and flowers stay fresh. Your flowers will wilt on a warm day and arrive looking tired and old without one. 

Ice Cream Companies – Nobody wants their ice cream runny or melted; with a freezer van, you will be able to keep your products frozen, running around -18 degrees. The smallest temperature increase on a sunny day can affect the quality of items such as ice cream; using a freezer van will help protect your stock! 

Pharmacies –  you may not know it, but medicines and pharmaceutical products need to be delivered at a specific temperature, with strict rules and regulations that must be adhered to; any company transferring medical products needs to do so at the right temperature.

One thing to bear in mind is that there is a legal requirement for companies to transport perishable goods correctly; if not, you will be found to be breaking The International Carriage Of Perishable Foodstuffs Regulations 1985, which is a punishable offence. Ensure you are using the right equipment to transport your products; it will help keep your reputation with customers high and reduce any risk of damaging products. 

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Read Our Top Things To Consider When Choosing A Refrigerated Van

Temperature:

This should without a doubt be the first thing you consider when thinking about a refrigerated van, regardless of whether you are transporting fish, sandwiches, cakes or medicines, the temperature needs to be suitable for your product every time. More often than not, refrigerated vans have temperature controls, but you will need to consider whether you need separate areas in the hold of the van for different products. For example, do you transport both cold and frozen products?

What are the good you transport?

The goods you transport will determine what kind of refrigerated van you need; every industry is different and will need to meet specific health and safety criteria. For example, an insulated van is only designed to maintain a temperature, such as overheating on summer days. This type of van does not have a refrigeration unit installed; it is ideal for customers who make short journeys, such as florists. 

Logistics Of Your Van 

You need to make sure that the layout of your van will work for your companies needs; for example, if you are a butcher and using your refrigerated van for transporting meats, you may need space for hanging products meaning a large refrigerated van will be needed. Realistically, you want to maximise your space if you have a conversion carried out. Otherwise, you are wasting valuable transportation space. 

Consider Your Doors

This is something that most people forget about, but the doors are vital to your van working correctly; when you are out delivering perishable goods to your customers, you will need to be in and out of the back of the van. Consider whether you require side or back doors, organise your deliveries on a first-out basis, and think about strip curtains; these will help retain a relaxed environment in your van. 

Do You Need Additional Features?

One final thing to consider is whether you need any additional features within your refrigerated van; maybe you have a large van and need anti-slip flooring for items that can create condensation or products such as fish that need to be on the ice. You might also find it will help when your drivers climb in and out the back of the van when out on delivery.  

Have You Considered A Fridge Van Conversion?

One of the most popular options for refrigerated vans is a converted van; this is simply a van that has been taken by a company such as ours and transformed into a refrigerated or freeze van. Having a conversion carried outcomes with a wide range of benefits, such as deciding on the layout of your new van to suit the needs of your business. Not only that, but it can help with cost-saving, especially if you already have a van that is suitable for the job, you will be able to have that converted. 

The main factors you need to consider when thinking about having your van converted to a refrigerated van are to discuss with the company you choose the logistics of your van and the refrigeration unit that will be fitted. 

  • Find out what the logistics are from insulation, how will the company prevent cold loss?
  • Confirm that your new van will meet the requirements for your industry once complete 
  • Always choose a reputable company for carrying out the conversion; this will make sure your finished van is of high standards. 

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Should You Hire Or Buy A Refrigerated Van?

Another major factor to consider when thinking about refrigerated vans is whether or not you are in the position to buy a van, or would it be more beneficial for you and your company to hire? This will solely depend on your business plan and the products you deliver, how often you deliver, and where you deliver. 

  • One main reason to hire a refrigerated van is that when you choose to hire, the van will be updated as and when it is coming to the end of its life on the road; when you buy a van, you will have to make another purchase. 
  • Hiring will be more beneficial than buying enough vans to run your company if you have a large fleet of delivery drivers.
  • Some periods may be quiet, and you might not need a van for a few months; this is why we would recommend hiring over buying. 

You would need to make sure you discuss with the company you are looking to hire your refrigerated van from; this will help provide them with a clear outline of what you are looking for. Our team at BHRV take great pride in making sure anyone who uses our rental service is getting the most for their money and that we provide you with exactly what you are looking for. 

What Makes & Models Of Refrigerated Vans?

Regardless of your requirements, the discussion on the make and model of the refrigerated van you choose will always be personal to your company and preferences. If you want to buy or hire a van from our company, we can provide you with new and used vans, conversions and rentals at highly competitive prices. Having been in the industry for several years, we have found five top companies our clients choose when purchasing or renting refrigerated vans. These are; 

We have several years’ experience in buying and selling both new and used refrigerated vans, our team know what we are talking about, so should you need help or guidance, we are the team for you. Let our team help you meet the demands of your business and provide you with the highest quality brands on the market. 

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Contact BHRV For More Information Today

When it comes to finding and choosing the right refrigerated van for your company, you have come to the right place; our team here at BHRV are always available to help you find the most suitable van for your company. When you decide to grow your company through the use of a refrigerated van, give us a call; we will be able to help you buy brand new vans, used vans, or help with full van conversions. 

If you would like more information on the refrigerated vans we can offer you and how they can help you expand your business, reach out to one of our team members today. We are happy to discuss your specific needs and requirements and make sure you get the right van for your company. 

Reasons Your Business Needs A Refrigerated Van

If you’re a business owner, chances are that your company needs to transport food products or temperature-sensitive goods. If it does, then this blog post is for you! There are many reasons why your business should invest in a refrigerated van or truck, and our team here at BHRV discuss them below. 

First of all, if there’s one thing most people know about the restaurant industry (and any other food-related industries) is that it’s very temperature sensitive. Whether you’re making ice cream or transporting fresh produce from farms to grocery stores, having a vehicle with a proper cooling unit will make sure everything stays fresh all day long – whether on the road or just sitting in the warehouse waiting to be shipped out. That means less waste and more profit for your business! 

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Keep Your Good Safe 

You may find it obvious, but one of the main reasons to choose a refrigerated van is to keep your goods and products as safe as possible. A lot of people don’t see the benefits of a refrigerated van and think they can be a waste of money, but we can promise you they are worth every penny. They offer great protection for products and goods that are temperature-sensitive, for example, a refrigerated van will make your deliveries of meats, fruits and flowers easier. Your product will stay fresher for longer, providing your customers with the highest quality produce possible. 

Sending goods that are not up to standard once will damage your reputation, so having a refrigerated van will keep your business going strong. Not only is having a refrigerated van a way to keep your goods protected but it also protects you and your business reputation. 

Take Control Of Your Services

When you own a refrigerated van it gives your business a new level of control, you can provide your goods and produce when you want to, being able to distribute yourself brings a whole new aspect to your business. Once you own a van you can choose when you provide a delivery service and you can also ensure the deliveries are carried out without the hitch. 

When you buy your own refrigerated van you have control over every aspect of your delivery service, how your product is handled and stored and also how it is packaged for delivery, you know what your goods need more than anyone else. 

Taking control of your own services keeps you in control of every aspect of your business, it allows you to keep the business working in a way you are happy with, from the temperature of the van to the final deliveries of your goods, you are in control. 

Adds Flexibility To Your Business

When it comes to products that get distributed by refrigerated vans we often think of food, flowers and medicine, but we forget that refrigeration is open to many other industries as well. For example, companies that deal with fine art, antiques, personal products and also chemicals. By purchasing a refrigerated van you are giving your company the opportunity to be flexible and diverse. 

If for example, you are a delivery company, by adding refrigerated vehicles to your fleet of vans you are opening yourself up to being fully flexible and giving your company the ability to deliver a wider range of products in the best way possible. The end goal for everyone is to keep the consumer happy, having the equipment and tools to do this not only defines your business but will also help it grow and develop. 

Advertise Your Business 

Having a refrigerated van like normal vans gives you the opportunity to advertise, you can get the van wrapped or graphic design added. Anyway you can promote and advertise your business is a great asset, and when you can do so on a van that you own, why would you not take full advantage of that? 

With your refrigerated van, you can add your logo, branding, contact details and any other information relevant to your business, your refrigerated van becomes a consistent marketing scheme. Advertising your company every single time you take to the road. 

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Contact BHRV Today 

There’s a lot of reasons why you might need a refrigerated van. If your business is in the food and beverage industry, or if you are transporting perishable goods like medicine, medical equipment, flowers or even produce that needs to be delivered quickly – then it may not be an option for you to get by without one. 

To find out more information about why your business should purchase or hire a refrigerated van, get in touch with our team at BHRV. Not only do we sell new and used vans, but we can also offer you full conversions. Get in touch today to find out more.