Refrigerated Van Conversion: Is It Cheaper to Convert an Old Van or Buy a New Refrigerated Cargo Van?

This article explores the critical decision many businesses face: converting an old van into a refrigerated unit or investing in a new refrigerator van. We’ll delve into the pros and cons of each option, considering factors like cost, efficiency, reliability, and suitability for various industries. Whether you’re a food distributor, a pharmaceutical manufacturer, or a florist, this read will provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your business needs and budget.

Is a Refrigerated Van Right for My Business?

If your business involves transporting perishable goods, a refrigerated van, such as a mercedes sprinter, also known as a campervan. reefer van, is likely a necessity. These specialized vehicles are essential for maintaining the quality and safety of temperature-sensitive products. Industries that commonly rely on refrigerated transport include:

Food Industry: Food processors, distributors, grocery stores, restaurants, catering companies, and meal kit delivery services all depend on refrigerated vans, including those based on camper models to transport fresh produce, dairy, meat, and other perishable items.
Pharmaceutical Industry: Pharmaceutical manufacturers, distributors, pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and research institutions require precise temperature control for medications, vaccines, and biological samples.
Floral Industry: Flower growers, wholesalers, and florists utilize refrigerated vans to ensure the freshness and longevity of their delicate products.
Chemical Industry: Manufacturers and distributors of certain chemicals, particularly those that are temperature-sensitive, rely on refrigerated vans for safe and compliant transport of edible oil in a converted camper van.
Logistics and Delivery: Cold chain logistics providers, 3PLs, and last-mile delivery companies use refrigerated vans to offer specialized transport services for various temperature-controlled goods.

Do you need a reliable way to transport temperature-sensitive goods? If so, a refrigerated van is likely a worthwhile investment. These vehicles ensure product integrity, minimize spoilage, and comply with industry regulations.

Van Conversion vs. Buying New: What’s the Difference?

The core difference lies in the starting point. Van conversion involves retrofitting an existing van with a camper van refrigeration unit, insulation is key for maintaining temperature in a refrigerated camper van., and other necessary modifications. Buying a new refrigerated van means purchasing a purpose-built vehicle with an integrated cooling system.

Van conversion can seem like a cost-effective option, especially if you already own a van. However, it’s crucial to consider the van’s age, condition, and previous use. A van that was previously used to haul construction materials might not be the ideal candidate for carrying food products, for example.

Buying a new refrigerated van offers several advantages, including a factory-installed refrigeration unit, optimized insulation, and a warranty. But of course, it comes with a higher upfront cost.

What are the Key Factors to Consider in a Refrigerated Van?

Choosing the right refrigerated van involves evaluating several crucial factors, regardless of whether you opt for a conversion or a new purchase:

Temperature Requirements: Different products require different temperature ranges. Ensure the refrigeration unit can maintain the specific temperature your goods need.
Van Size and Capacity: Consider the volume of goods you typically transport. A larger van offers more space but may be less fuel-efficient.
Insulation Quality: Proper insulation is vital for maintaining temperature and minimizing energy consumption. Look for high-quality poly van bodies insulation materials like fiberglass or spray foam. The overall insulating value can be a huge factor when it comes to the long-term running costs of your van, with more insulation being better.
Refrigeration Unit Type: There are various refrigeration unit types, including vehicle-powered units that run off the van’s engine, self-powered units with a separate diesel engine, and electric units that require shore power.
Reliability and Maintenance: A reliable refrigeration unit is essential to prevent costly breakdowns and product spoilage. Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal performance. For example, losing a shipment of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals due to a refrigeration failure could cost tens of thousands of dollars, an amount which may not be able to recover.

How Much Does a Refrigerated Van Conversion Cost?

The cost of a refrigerated van conversion varies significantly depending on several factors:

Van’s Age and Condition: Converting an older van with high mileage or a history of mechanical issues can lead to higher repair costs down the line. It is important to know the van’s previous life.
Refrigeration Unit: The type and capacity of the refrigeration unit significantly impact the overall cost. A new, high-capacity unit will cost more than a used or smaller unit. Average we estimate the cost of a van conversion to be somewhere between $4,000 to $9,000 not including the cost of the van.
Insulation: The type and amount of insulation used also affect the cost. High-quality insulation materials may be more expensive but offer better performance.
Labor Costs: Installation costs vary depending on the complexity of the conversion and the labor rates in your area.

As a rough estimate, a basic refrigerated van conversion can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. This does not include the cost of the van itself.

What are the Advantages of Buying a New Refrigerated Van?

Investing in a new refrigerated van offers several key benefits:

Factory-Installed Refrigeration: New vans come with a fridge unit for optimal cooling. refrigeration unit specifically designed for the vehicle, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
Warranty: A new van and refrigeration unit typically come with a manufacturer’s warranty, providing peace of mind and protection against defects.
Reliability: A new van is less likely to experience mechanical issues, reducing the risk of downtime and repair costs.
Latest Technology: New vans often feature the latest technology, including advanced refrigeration systems, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety features.
Customization: When you buy new, you can often customize the van to your specific needs, choosing the size, refrigeration capacity, and other features.

Revolutionary-2024-JAC-Refrigerated-Truck-with-Advanced-Tech

Why Choose a Purpose-Built Refrigerated Van?

Purpose-built refrigerated vans are designed from the ground up for temperature-controlled transport. This offers several advantages over converted camper vans. vans:

Optimized Airflow: Ensure proper ventilation in your campervan Purpose-built vans have an airflow system designed to distribute cold air evenly throughout the cargo area, ensuring consistent temperatures. With a converted van, it will be harder to circulate the cold air around evenly.
Superior Insulation: These vans feature high-quality insulation integrated into the body, minimizing heat transfer and reducing energy consumption.
Weight Savings: Purpose-built refrigerated vans are often constructed with lightweight materials, offering weight savings compared to converted vans. This means more weight for the products that need to be transported.
Durability: These vans are built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
Resale Value: Purpose-built refrigerated vans typically hold their value better than converted vans, making them a better long-term investment.

How Do I Maintain a Refrigerated Van?

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of your refrigerated van. Here are some essential maintenance tips:

Inspect the Refrigeration Unit: Regularly check the compressor, refrigerant levels, and other components of the refrigeration unit.
Clean the Condenser and Evaporator Coils: Dirty coils can reduce efficiency and increase energy consumption.
Check Door Seals: Make sure they are airtight in your motorhome. Ensure the door seals are intact and provide a tight seal to prevent cold air from escaping.
Monitor Temperature: Regularly monitor the temperature inside the cargo area to ensure it’s within the desired range.
Schedule Professional Service: Have a qualified technician inspect and service the refrigeration unit at least once a year.

What are the alternatives to a refrigerated van?

Refrigerated trailers are another option to think about. You can unhitch the trailer and then unload it whenever it is convenient for you. If you need your van for other things as well, this could be a good thing. However, if you are going to be driving it about all day, every day, this may not be the best choice for you.

Are refrigerated vans expensive to run?

A vehicle that is powered by the engine is the most popular choice. This is because it is the cheapest and best for the environment. However, if the vehicle is parked for a long time with the engine off, the temperature may rise. Even though diesel units are more expensive, but a fridge unit in a camper van is better if you need to keep things cool while you are not driving.

Pros of converting your van

May cost less than buying a new refrigerated van.
You can utilize an existing vehicle.

Cons of converting your van

The refrigeration unit isn’t specifically designed for the van.
The van may not be adequately insulated.
Higher risk of breakdowns and repair costs.
Lower resale value compared to a purpose-built refrigerated van.

Feature	Van Conversion	New Refrigerated Van
Cost	Lower upfront cost	Higher upfront cost
Refrigeration Unit	Retrofitted, may not be optimized for the van	Factory-installed, designed for the van
Insulation	Added, may not be as effective	Integrated, high-quality
Reliability	Higher risk of breakdowns	Lower risk of breakdowns
Warranty	Limited or no warranty	Manufacturer’s warranty
Resale Value	Lower	Higher
Customization	Limited	More options
Fuel Efficiency	May be lower	May be higher
Technology	May lack latest features	Latest technology
Weight	May be heavier	May be lighter, offering weight savings
Airflow	May not be optimized	Optimized for even temperature distribution
Durability	May be lower	Higher
Temperature Consistency is crucial in a fridge unit for campervans.	May be less consistent	More consistent
Maintenance	May require more frequent maintenance	May require less frequent maintenance
Environmental Impact	May be higher	May be lower
Compliance with Standards	May be harder to meet	Designed to meet industry standards

FAQs

What is a refrigerated van?

A refrigerated van, also known as a reefer van or fridge van, is a specialized vehicle equipped with a refrigeration unit and insulation to maintain a low temperature inside the cargo area.

How does a refrigerated van work?

A refrigerated van uses a fridge unit refrigeration unit, typically powered by the van’s engine or a separate power source, to cool the air inside the cargo area. Insulation helps to maintain the low temperature and prevent heat from entering.

What is the difference between a chiller van and a freezer van?

A chiller van is designed to maintain temperatures typically between 0°C and 8°C, suitable for transporting fresh produce, dairy products, and other chilled goods. A freezer van can reach much lower temperatures, typically -18°C or below, and is used for transporting frozen foods. If you are thinking of trying to convert an old van into a freezer, this is very difficult and you may not be able to find someone who is willing to carry out the conversion.

Can I convert a regular van into a refrigerated van?

Yes, it is possible to convert a regular van into a refrigerated van. However, it’s essential to choose a van in good condition and use high-quality refrigeration and insulation components.

How do I choose a refrigeration unit for a van conversion?

When selecting a refrigeration unit for a van conversion, consider the required temperature range, the size of the cargo area, the power source (vehicle-powered, self-powered, or electric), and the unit’s reliability and efficiency.

What is a panel van?

A panel van is a type of van that has no rear side windows. They are sometimes used to convert into campervans or motorhomes.

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Conclusion

Choosing between a refrigerated van conversion and buying a new refrigerated van is a significant decision that can impact your business’s bottom line. While van conversion may seem like a more cost-effective option initially, it’s crucial to weigh the potential drawbacks, including lower reliability, reduced efficiency, and higher maintenance costs. Buying a new refrigerated van offers numerous advantages, such as a factory-installed refrigeration unit, a warranty, and the latest technology.

As a leading refrigerated truck manufacturing plant, we understand the importance of reliable and efficient refrigerated transport. We offer a wide range of refrigerated vans and trucks designed to meet the specific needs of various industries. Our experienced team can help you choose the right vehicle and refrigeration system for your business, ensuring your products are transported safely and efficiently. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services!

Here are the most important things to remember when considering a refrigerated van:

Assess your needs: Determine the required temperature range, cargo capacity, and other specific requirements for your business.
Consider the long-term costs: While van conversion may have a lower upfront cost, a new refrigerated van may offer lower operating costs and higher resale value.
Prioritize reliability: Choose a reputable manufacturer and a reliable refrigeration unit to minimize downtime and prevent product spoilage.
Invest in quality insulation: Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining temperature and reducing energy consumption.
Regular maintenance is key: Follow a regular maintenance schedule to ensure the longevity and reliability of your refrigerated van.
Contact us today: Let our experts help you find the perfect refrigerated van for your business. Don’t wait, reach out now and experience the difference a high-quality refrigerated van can make! Edible Oil Transport Truck, which can also be a converted camper van. or Edible Oil Transporter 25.6m³ Capacity might be right for you. If you are looking for something bigger 47m³ Compression Garbage Semi-Trailer, or perhaps Fracturing Sand Tank Truck 31,000 KG Capacity. For something smaller check out the Aluminum Alloy Oil Truck 25.5m³