Setup process
Refrigerator installation
How much does it cost ?
You have two options – modify your existing vehicle or purchase a new one. We can help you with both.
The financial aspect is different in each case. To install a new one or to rebuild an existing reefer equipment costs around $20k-$30k, depending on the type of reefer unit and the company that installs it. A brand new vehicle that is already equipped with a reefer unit can cost as much as the following:
How long does it take to pay off a new or modified refrigerated vehicle?
A modified truck can pay off in approximately 3-4 months, where a new refrigerated truck pays off in approximately 6-7 months.
(This calculation is based on the operators’ real income from RVN loads, and depends on how often the owner accepts loads from RVN.)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reefer?
A reefer is a vehicle with a refrigeration unit that allows temperature sensitive loads to be transported. Refrigerated vehicles transport medication, non-hazmat chemicals, produce, and food, such as: meat, seafood, dairy products, juices, vegetables, fruits, etc.
What are the vehicle requirements for reefers?
A vehicle can either be purchased with the preinstalled reefer unit, or you can modify your vehicle. If the vehicle is modified, the type of reefer installation can be “Thermo King,” “Carrier,” or any other trusted reefer unit provider. The vehicle should be no more than ten years old, requiring your vehicle to be a 2012 or newer.
Where can I modify my vehicle?
Most of our owner operators choose “Thermo King” installation, as they offer the highest quality installations, and provide a guarantee of their work. Thermo King has branches in every major city. You can find the closest branch by following the link:
https://dealers.thermoking.com/dealer-locator.html
Cellphone (888) 887-2202
www.thermoking.com
How much does the modified reefer truck cost?
The cost of modifying a regular truck to a refrigerated truck varies from $20,000 to $30,000, depending on your vehicle and which provider you choose.
How long does it take to pay off a new or modified refrigerated vehicle?
A modified truck can pay off in approximately 3-4 months, where a new refrigerated truck pays off in approximately 6-7 months. (This calculation is based on the operators’ real income from RVN loads, and depends on how often the owner accepts loads from RVN.)
New Reefer | Modified Reefer | |||
Average price | Payback | Average price | Payback | |
Large Straight Truck | ≈ $70 000 | 5 months | ≈ $25 000 | From 2 months |
Box Truck | ≈ $55 000 | 5-6 months | ≈ $20 000 | From 2 months |
Sprinter van | ≈ $35 000 | 3-4 months | ≈ $16 000 | From 2 months |
Do I need to change anything on the insurance?
Yes, minor changes are required. You should add the coverage “Reefer Breakdown” for $100,000 with a $2,500 deductible. This type of coverage protects temperature-controlled freight from claims caused by the malfunctioning of the reefer unit.
It is also necessary to add such products (commodities):
Pharmaceuticals
Food and beverages
Dairy and fresh produce
Frozen meats and seafood
What is the temperature needed in my truck?
The recommended and the most common temperature range that the reefer unit can set is from -20F to 80F, depending on how low and high temperatures can be maintained inside the truck you are having more opportunities to get well-paid loads. You should purchase a laser (infrared) and pulp thermometer ($20-$30). You also have to attend the orientation held by us and install the temperature data logger provided by us before taking the reefer loads.
How can I set a sleeper? What should I do if there is no such possibility?
On long distance loads if there is no possibility to set a sleeper, we provide extra funding to our operators for a motel.
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