Guide to Selecting Refrigerated Trucks for Cold Chain Logistics

Imagine this: early morning at the docks, freshly caught seafood with the briny scent of the ocean awaits transportation to dinner tables across the country. Without reliable cold chain logistics, these precious ingredients might lose their freshness before arrival. Refrigerated trucks serve as the crucial guardians of this perishable bounty. But how does one select the right refrigerated truck to ensure safe and efficient delivery of goods?

Refrigerated trucks, as the name suggests, are specialized vehicles equipped with temperature control systems built upon standard truck chassis. These mobile "refrigerators" or "walk-in freezers" maintain precise internal temperatures to keep transported goods in optimal condition. Whether it's fresh produce, perishable meats and seafood, or temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and vaccines, refrigerated trucks provide essential protection.

The key difference from standard trucks lies in their insulated cargo compartments. These use specialized thermal materials to block external heat and minimize temperature loss. The exterior typically features white paint to maximize sunlight reflection and reduce heat absorption. These design details ensure stable internal temperatures for optimal product preservation.

When selecting refrigerated trucks, you'll frequently encounter the terms "medium-temperature" and "low-temperature" units. What distinguishes these two types?

• Medium-temperature trucks: Primarily transport goods with moderate temperature requirements like fresh vegetables, fruits, and chilled meats. Operating between -5°C to 7°C, they effectively inhibit bacterial growth and extend shelf life. Sometimes called "chiller trucks" or "fresh-keeping trucks."
• Low-temperature trucks: Designed for deep-frozen products including frozen meats, ice cream, and seafood. Maintaining temperatures around -30°C, they prevent thawing and spoilage during transit.

Note that "set temperature" differs from actual "cargo space temperature," which varies based on ambient conditions, load quantity, and compartment insulation. Select units with appropriate cooling capacity for your specific needs.

The market also offers insulated trucks without refrigeration systems. These function like large "cooler boxes," slowing temperature changes through insulation alone. While more economical with lower maintenance costs, they're only suitable for short-haul transport of less temperature-sensitive items like prepared meals or beverages.

The refrigeration unit forms the core of these vehicles, with three primary technologies available:

• Mechanical systems: The most common approach, operating similarly to household refrigerators through compressor-condenser-evaporator cycles. These offer high efficiency and precise control but require more maintenance.
• Eutectic systems: Using pre-frozen cooling plates that gradually release cold energy. These are environmentally friendly with low noise but suit only short-distance transport.
• Cryogenic systems: Employing liquid nitrogen's extreme cold during vaporization. While achieving ultra-low temperatures quickly, they involve higher costs and safety considerations.

Refrigeration units require power, available through two configurations:

• Direct-drive systems: Using the vehicle's engine via belts or couplings. These are simpler and more fuel-efficient but can't operate when the engine is off.
• Independent systems: Featuring dedicated engines for consistent cooling regardless of vehicle operation, though with higher costs and fuel consumption.

Selecting reputable refrigeration brands ensures reliable performance. Notable manufacturers include:

• MHI (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries)
• Topre Corporation
• Carrier Transicold
• Denso Corporation

Several design elements can improve refrigerated truck performance:

• Keystone flooring: Reinforced flooring that improves durability and cold air circulation.
• Dual-temperature systems: Allow simultaneous transport of frozen and chilled goods.
• Auxiliary power units: Enable continuous cooling during stationary periods.

Operating refrigerated trucks requires standard commercial driving licenses appropriate for the vehicle's weight class. For used units, thorough inspections of refrigeration performance, compartment conditions, and documentation are essential before purchase.