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.