Reefer Truck Buying Guide

Refrigerated or “reefer” trucks have become an absolute necessity in the world of cargo transportation. While people traditionally relied upon ice and salt and cellars to keep things cold, that meant that nothing perishable could be transported over long distances. Reefer trucks have made it possible for companies to transport dairy, meat, vegetables, fruits, frozen food, cosmetics, flowers, medications, vaccines and many other essential commodities over thousands of miles without anything going bad.

Looking to purchase a reefer truck? DeBary Truck Sales in Sanford, FL, is your local reefer truck dealer, serving all of our Florida and Georgia customers, as well as our international customers in the Caribbean. Check out this buying guide so you know what to take into consideration when shopping for a refrigerated truck.

Single Vs. Multi-Temp

Reefer trucks are designed to maintain a consistent temperature, and many have temperature controls to accurately set and keep the desired temperature in their interiors. However, some trucks may only be able to maintain one temperature throughout the space, while others can maintain multiple temperatures. Obviously, those that have the ability to hold different temperatures will cost more, but may be necessary for the type of cargo you intend to haul.

Distance & Capacity

Always check to see the temperatures at which your cargo must be held. Some types of cargo may need to be frozen deeply, which will cost more, and this cargo may only be able to be transported over short distances. Other types of cargo don’t need to be quite as cold and could be transported over a longer haul. 

You’ll also need to make sure that the capacity of the truck is suitable for your needs. While a smaller truck may be less expensive, this could result in you paying more in fuel and time needed to transport goods because you will have to make multiple trips. By the same turn, you don’t want to get a truck that’s unnecessarily large for a small amount of cargo as that will be wasteful and costly.

Weight Considerations

You’ll also need to ensure that your chassis can handle the weight of both the upfits and insulation needed to insulate and cool your cargo as well as the cargo itself. Sometimes, certain types of upfits that help to increase efficiency and maintain thermal regulation may compromise the amount of space or weight you can haul. Know the exact dimensions of the interior, including all upfits and insulation that will be installed, and know the weight of those features combined wit the weight of your cargo before you make your final choice.

Seeking refrigerated trucks for sale in Florida? Stop by our dealership in Sanford, FL, or check out our website to take a look at our vast inventory of new and used reefer trucks for sale. DeBary Truck Sales serves all of Florida, greater Atlanta, Costa Rica, Panama and Puerto Rico.