Reefer trailers look almost identical to dry van trailers, but the cargo they transport is different. Reefer trailers are often used to transport agricultural products, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other goods that require refrigeration. Dry van trailers are usually used to transport clothes, beverages, etc. with regular shapes, and can be loaded in pallets.
Can a reefer trailer be used as a dry van trailer?
Yes. The refrigeration unit of the reefer trailer can be turned off. When closed, it can be used as a dry van trailer to transport some conventional goods.
However, it should be noted that since the reefer trailer can refrigerate, there will be a chute inside the trailer. When loading goods, you need to be careful not to damage the chute. And after transporting regular cargo, a good cleaning of the inside of the refrigerated trailer is required in order to transport food-grade products again.
How cold can a reefer trailer get?
Standard refrigerated trailers are capable of maintaining temperatures between -17°C and 25°C.
- If transporting crops, the cargo needs a temperature between 0°C and 10°C.
- If transporting plants and flowers, the temperature requirement is around 0.5°C.
- If transporting medicines, the temperature requirement is between 0°C and 8°C.
How much weight can a reefer trailer carry?
A reefer trailer can transport less cargo than a dry van trailer. Because of the existence of the refrigerated unit, its interior space is smaller and less cargo can be loaded. But generally, you can transport goods up to the legal weight.
For example, the combined weight of a dual-axle semi-trailer cannot exceed 80,000 pounds. The weight of the truck is 14,000 pounds and the weight of the trailer is 13,000 pounds, so the weight of the cargo you can transport is 53,000 pounds.
How long does a reefer trailer last?
The average usage time of a reefer trailer is 40,000 hours, which equates to about 8 years of use on the open road. But some methods can extend the use time. If the reefer trailer is used for less than 4,000 hours per year, its service life will be greatly extended.
What fuel do reefer trailers use？
Although the fuel used in reefer trailers is essentially the same as ordinary diesel, it belongs to a special classification of diesel. It uses a red dye to signify a different tax designation. In addition to being used in reefer trailers, reefer diesel can also be used in agricultural equipment or construction vehicles in an off-road identification.
Reefer fuel is strictly prohibited from being used on-road trucks and will result in fines.
It’s interesting to know that despite being essentially the same as regular diesel, the fuel used in reefer trailers falls under a unique category of diesel. Thanks for also emphasizing how to indicate a distinct tax categorization, it employs a red dye. I’m here reading this because my aunt’s looking for a mobile cooler trailer rental that she can use to transport perishable goods to her parents in another state. Appreciate it!
So, here’s a thing: my neighborhood florist needs some extra space to keep his flowers. hopefully, reading this article would inspire him to opt for a suitable amenity right away. Moreover, it was clear based on your explanation that reefer trailers are able to maintain temperatures below freezing points.