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At Pola Van Rental, we always try and help out the best we can, especially at Christmas time!

Admin — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 14:24:01 +0000

At Pola Van Rental, we always try and help out the best we can, especially at Christmas time!

On Wednesday 18th December, PVR Ltd were in London delivering a Christmas Donation to Crisis Homeless Charity and their Operations Project Coordinator Allys Phillips in the shape of a fully Refrigerated Brand New Mercedes Sprinter. Crisis will use this vehicle throughout London across the Christmas period and into the New Year to transport food between their 3 hotels in the city; ensuring a large number of people are supported with food and supplies this Christmas.

Getting to see the truly incredible work they do was a great privilege, and we are honoured to know that even our small amount of support will help them and their vital services throughout this Christmas period. Crisis’s 10 year strategy for ending homelessness can be found in the link below and please consider donating to help those let fortunate than yourself this Christmas time.

Appreciation must also go to Baker Ward Signs and Graphics as well for designing a wonderful layout which incorporates our standard PVR Ltd layout with the Crisis Logo and message – plus some added Christmas cheer! If you see our van driving around London this festive period, don’t forget to give the lovely volunteer driver a wave, and get online and give them a donation!

Donate To Crisis At Christmas

Our strategy for ending homelessness

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Not sure what you need? Our experienced team is here to offer good, practical advice on what best suits your requirements, with no obligation to commit to either Purchase or Long Term Rental. We will assist with each stage of the process, from locating the unconverted van that suits your application, either from our own Vanfridge Ltd stock or from UK Dealer Stock or Factory Order. Once located and the final specification agreed, we will custom build your new Refrigerated Van, always holding the mutually agreed final purchase price shown on the final signed Order Confirmation.
Our sole aim is to provide you first class service. We want to make you as proud of your newly delivered Refrigerated Van as we were when it left our Workshop! Please click below for more information or call 01299 253478 today!

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London businesses urge Congestion Charge rethink

Admin — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 15:11:25 +0000

London businesses urge Congestion Charge rethink

Commencing on 25th December 2024, Transport for London (TfL) announced that vehicles enjoying a £10 for a year’s exemption from congestion charges will have to pay the standard £15 daily fee. Therefore, Electric Vans will no longer be exempt from the congestion charge. This change aligns with the broader goal of the complete phasing out of petrol and diesel vehicles. TfL believes that as Electric Vans become more prevalent, maintenance of an exemption would undermine the whole purpose of the Congestion Charge, to successfully reduced traffic congestion and pollution in Central London. In addition, funds raised via the Charge have provided increased support for public transport funding, promoting a shift away from car usage in favour of more sustainable transport options like buses, trams, and the underground. All vehicles, including Electric Vans, will become subject to the Congestion Charge; this also includes electric rental vans. This policy shift emphasises the TfL belief in the need for broader measures to manage congestion and pollution, even as vehicle fleets
become cleaner.

However, more than 40 businesses have signed an open letter asking the Mayor of London to extend the current congestion charge exemption for all electric vehicles, including Electric Vans on rental.

The signatories, include Ocado, the AA and the Federation of Small Businesses, all argue the introduction of this charge – which based on £15 per day, would add up to £5,500 per Electric Van per annum – would undermine companies who had “taken on debt to invest in Electric Vans”. The FSB also said the scheme should be extended to help business owners who already face heavy costs and have invested in an electric infrastructure. Oliver Lord from campaign group Clean Cities called the change “puzzling”. He said “By offering incentives to businesses for electric vehicles, we not only promote greener transport but we also draw a line against the most polluting freight vehicles. How is it right that a dirty diesel van pays the same Charge as a cleaner electric vehicle in the most polluted part of the UK? This defies logic and the best international practice. Now is the time for the Mayor to cement his efforts for change by maintaining the exemption and working on a broader package of support for green freight across the capital.”

Transport for London was working with City Hall to “see what more could be done to mitigate the effect of this phasing out and further incentivise businesses to make the switch to cleaner vehicles”.

Supporters of the exemption have said waiving the fees for electric vehicles played “a fundamental role” in easing the cost of investing in the transition to an environmentally friendly fleet and the prospect of it ending left them “deeply troubled”.
The letter states: “Countless business owners wish to move away from dirty diesel vans and to electric alternatives, they should be supported and not hindered doing so.”

The Green Party added these incentives “these exemptions were always going to be time limited”.
Caroline Russell, Leader of the City Hall Greens, said: “If every Londoner drives an electric car we won’t tackle congestion, air pollution or the climate crisis. The best solution to any concerns about unfairness in changes like this is to move to smart, fair road user charging.”

A TfL spokesperson added: “More than 52,000 grants have been approved for Londoners, businesses and charities to switch to cleaner vehicles (including Electric Vans) with 70,000 fewer non-compliant vehicles now seen driving on London’s roads.”

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Is it time to change frozen temperatures to -15C

Admin — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 22:58:04 +0000

Is it time to change frozen temperatures to -15 °C?

DP World, the Dubai based logistics company, is calling for a revision to frozen food temperatures in a bid to cut costs and reduce the environmental impact of frozen food storage and transport.

It is setting up an industry-wide coalition to explore the feasibility of changing the temperature that frozen food is transported and stored at from -18 °C to -15 °C, named Join the Move to -15 °C, which potentially would lead to cost savings of between 5% and 12%.

Most frozen food is transported and stored at -18°C, a standard that was set 93 years ago and has not changed since. Researchers from the Paris-based International Institute of Refrigeration, the University of Birmingham and London South Bank University found that a move to -15 °C could make a significant environmental impact with no compromise on food safety or quality

The study itself was supported by DP World and showed that the change could potentially save 17.7-million tonnes of carbon dioxide a year, which is the equivalent emissions of 3.8-million cars a year. Further, the change would create energy savings of around 25 TW/h, which is equivalent to 8.63% of the UK’s yearly energy consumption. The change would also cut costs in the supply chain by at least 5% and in some areas by up to 12%, the study found.

The study, which was supported by DP World, showed that the change could cut costs in the supply chain by at least 5% and in some areas by up to 12%

“Frozen food standards have not been updated in almost a century. They are long overdue for revision. A small temperature increase could have huge benefits. However, regardless of each individual organisation’s commitment, the industry can only change what is possible by working together,” says DP World Group chief sustainability officer Maha Al Qattan.

The coalition has already been joined by industry organisations, including US-based AJC Group; AP Moller; Maersk of Denmark; Daikin of Japan; DP World; the Global Cold Chain Alliance; Switzerland’s Kuehne + Nagel International; US-based Lineage; Mediterranean Shipping Company of Geneva; and Singapore-based Ocean Network Express.

“Through this research, we can see how we can deploy accessible storage technologies in all markets to freeze food at sustainable temperatures, while reducing food scarcity for vulnerable and developed communities,” Al Qattan says.

“With this research and newly formed coalition, we aim to support collaboration across the industry to find viable ways to achieve the sector’s shared net-zero ambition by 2050. Join the Move to -15 °C will bring the industry together to explore new, greener standards to help decarbonise the sector on a global scale.”

The Join the Move to -15 °C initiative aims to create a just transition and deploy accessible storage technologies globally to freeze food at sustainable temperatures to reduce food scarcity for vulnerable and developed communities alike, she says.

“Cold chains are critical infrastructure, vital for a well-functioning society and economy. They underpin our access to safe and nutritious food and health, as well as our ability to spur economic growth. Cold chain infrastructure, and the lack of it, have implications for global climate change and the environment,” University of Birmingham and Heriot-Watt University Centre for Sustainable Cooling director Professor Toby Peters said.

“Cutting cold chain emissions and transforming how food is safely stored and moved today helps ensure we can keep sustainably feeding communities across the globe, as populations and global temperatures rise, thereby protecting nutritious food sources for years to come.

“Building on this research, DP World’s coalition can be a key tool for overcoming today’s food challenges too, providing a stable inventory of quality food for the 820-million starving people worldwide and security for another 2 billion who are struggling with food scarcity,” Peters says.

“DP World has made the research accessible to all and has invited stakeholders, industry leaders and interested parties to support the campaign.”

Maha Al Qattan, group chief people and sustainability officer, DP World, said in an open letter: “Back in the 1930s, the world agreed to set the temperature of much of the frozen food we collectively transport at -18° Celsius. In almost a century since, supply chains have modernised and cooling technology has advanced hugely.

“At the same time, we’ve seen exponential growth in the volume of blueberries, broccoli, shellfish and all the other food we supply for the plates of consumers worldwide.

“But that temperature standard has not changed. It was set at -18°C partly for convenience – it is the same as zero degrees Fahrenheit.

“So, at DP World, we set out to verify the potential savings in carbon and energy if everyone involved in the global cold chain turned the temperature up by three degrees, from -18 to -15.

“To check our theory, we commissioned independent academics from universities across Europe and Africa and the International Institute of Refrigeration – including experts on food science, climate change, socioeconomics and the cold chain. They concluded that the small change of three degrees can make a very big difference.

“It would save the equivalent carbon emissions of taking 3.8 million cars off the road and create energy savings of between 5% and 12%. With no impact on the quality of the food itself – food that the world badly needs.

“We believe the time is right to consider a move to -15°C as a new standard to reduce industry emissions, cut costs for operators and secure future food resources for communities everywhere.
“We believe this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to change what is possible in the cold chain to the benefit of all.

“And we know that it will take all of us in the industry, working together, to make this change. Which is why we’re inviting our peers, partners and competitors to join us. Already Maersk, Lineage, MSC and many others are on board – and we’d love more of you to be part of our coalition for change.

“As Dubai prepares to host COP28 in the UAE, we invite you to join us to explore how the industry can make this change together.”

Article transposed from Cold Chain News – December 2023

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Potential Security Equipment for your Refrigerated Van

Admin — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 22:52:49 +0000

Potential Security Equipment for your Refrigerated Vehicle: –

ALARMS – Engine Immobilisers are mandatory in England and Wales, however, Vans don’t have to include an alarm and every Van manufacturer has a different offering in their Factory fitted standard package. Possibly, Perimetric (doors being opened) or Volumetric (changes in pressure, such as broken windows) Sensors, however, the most advanced Alarms have both. A Category 1 Alarm with insurance approval from Thatcham Research can reduce insurance premiums. Check with your Insurer for mor information.

ADDITIONAL DOOR LOCKS – These place an additional barrier between thieves and the Van contents, making them an effective visual external deterrent. Two types are available; Deadlocks and Slamlocks. Deadlocks operate manually and Slamlocks lock automatically as the Van door is shut.

TRACKER – It won’t prevent an attempted theft, however, its effective to keeping an electronic tag on your Vehicle if stolen. Trackers can be removed or jammed, but the Vehicle is usually recovered quite quickly as its location is known. Thieves can be deterred by a Van with visual external signs showing a Tracker is fitted. When fitting a Tracker, check with the fitting company that to save time on the installation it hasn’t been fitted in the same place as every other Van from the same manufacturer!

CATALYTIC CONVERTER LOCKS – All ICE (petrol & diesel) Vans have a catalytic converter (CAT) to control the harmful components of their exhaust emissions. The CAT contains precious metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium, very valuable on the Black Market. Vans particularly are the easy option for a thief because of the higher ground clearance and therefore easier access to a larger CAT than a family car. Regular thieves have equipment for removing the CAT in minutes, which completely immobilises the Vehicle and costs of replacement are often hundreds of pounds. A CAT Lock device can be easily fitted or try a marking system, which is cheaper. Either of these options will deter would be CAT hackers. A national asset database is in the process of being created to register all Catalytic Converters, where they are registered as having been marked with the unique and heat resistant SmartWater solution.

LOCKING WHEEL BOLTS & NUTS – All modern Vehicles with alloy wheels will have locking wheel nuts, but rarely used on steel rims. Current increasing Tyre prices and with more Vans sharing the same wheel rims, the most basic wheels can be worth stealing. The cost of a full set of locking Wheel Nuts is low compared to potential inconvenience of your Van having no Wheels!

DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY – Your drivers also have a responsibility to keep your Vehicle they are driving safe, by following the advice shown below: –

Park in a well illuminated place close to a wall and on an off-road driveway, to reduce access for thieves. The ideal solution is on your drivers’ home driveway, adjacent to their house.
Always lock the Van – In 2022, 45% of Van drivers said that they rarely locked their vehicles during deliveries, so always check it’s locked before walking away.
Nothing visible in the Cab – No valuables to remain on display in the Cab. Even a few pound coins, can still be attractive to a petty thief. Make sure if you have an electric Vehicle, that charging cables are hidden from view. They are both valuable and cause massive inconvenience if stolen. Your Decal layout is not just there to sell your products. All additional Decals illustrating Alarms and Trackers are fitted are an effective deterrent too.
Keys Safety – Thieves target keyless systems, using a device, usually purchased on-line, to relay your Key Fobs pulse to the Vehicle, allowing it to be accessed and started. A Faraday Container to store your Key Fob, signal-blocks the Keys pulses, and can prevent this access.
Secure Apps – Most new Vans, especially EV’s, have a Smartphone App which can both locate the Vehicle, carry out a status check, and often unlock the Vehicles Doors! Always protect by an exclusive PIN or a non-simple password.

As Refrigerated Vehicles continue to increase in price, it’s essential to maximise the security measures you put in place. There are large financial and logistic implications when your Van is either stolen or temporarily neutralised by potential thieves.

In the worst of cases and your Vehicle is stolen, immediately contact your local Police Station (dial 101) with the Registration Number, Manufacturer, Model, Colour and ideally the 17-digit VIN code shown on page 2 of the V5. You will be given you a Crime Reference Number and you notify both the DVLA and your Insurer regarding theft. These notifications still apply even if the vehicle is recovered. Your Insurer will require full details of date, time, location and any other data regarding the theft. Before you sign up for any new Insurance Policy ensure it includes theft, and ideally Replacement Refrigerated Vehicle Cover until you have located a full Refrigerated Van replacement. Finally, store your insurance details away from the Vehicle so if the vehicle is stolen you can still access them.

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High Quality Temperature Controlled Vans

Admin — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 14:51:07 +0000

High Quality Temperature Controlled Vans

Maintaining Quality Standards

Industries that utilise refrigerated vehicles regularly demand the highest quality standards when transporting their goods. It is essential that ALL refrigerated vehicles must therefore be designed and constructed to maintain the required temperature of goods which are carried in them, otherwise the quality and safety of their products cannot be guaranteed.

Expanding Delivery Area

Refrigerated vans enable businesses to expand their delivery areas. For example, whether it’s delivering fresh produce to local markets or distributing frozen goods to distant locations, Vanfridge and Pola Van Rental Purchase and Rental options provide business with the flexibility they need to cope with changing demands in terms of product type, volume and distance.

Versatility in Refrigerated Van Rental

Catering to Diverse Needs

All refrigerated transport operations encompass a wide range of products, each with its unique temperature requirements. Pola Van Rental offers a versatile fleet of refrigerated vans for Rental for all applications; Chill; Frozen; Multi-Temperature and even specialist vans for Pharmaceuticals. Equally Vanfridge can work with you to Purchase a new or used refrigerated van to suit any of the applications above. Our in-house diversity ensures we can help you to find the best solution.

Meeting Seasonal Demands

Seasonal fluctuations in supply and demand are common and can be problematic. However, Pola Van Rental have designed flexible rental contracts to suit the seasonal needs of our sector, which operate using the following simple parameters:-

Pola Van Rental supply you with the same refrigerated van, originally built to your specification, to assist with your busy periods of at least 6 months over 3 consecutive years
We mutually agree a specification and fixed monthly price
Pola Van Rental will then give you the same refrigerated van for a minimum of 6 months p.a. for the next 3 years
The originally agreed monthly price will be fixed for each of the 3 years
The Vehicle remains unchanged, but the rental period is flexible annually, and can be extended for between 6 months (minimum rental period p.a.) and up to 12 months if required Sounds interesting? Please contact us for more information.

The Range of Refrigerated Vans Available

New Refrigerated Vans

Vanfridge offers a selection of new refrigerated vans. These are usually built to order, as every customer’s specification is different. Vanfridge does carry its own stock of unconverted new vans, ranging from 2.1t to 3.5t GVW. If the vehicle you require is not available from our Stock, we can usually locate from UK Dealer Stock or utilise a Factory Order. Delivery of the completed van usually takes between 4 and 10 weeks depending on 3rd Party component supply.

Used Refrigerated Vans

Budget-conscious businesses can opt for used refrigerated vans, which have been meticulously inspected by Vanfridge. If the van is from our own Rental Fleet, it will have a full-service history on both refrigeration unit and vehicle; in addition, it will have been owned by Pola Van Rental from first registration. Used refrigerated vans can be a cost-effective solution, providing reliable performance while saving on upfront costs.

Comprehensive Refrigerated Van Servicing

Fridge Van Servicing

Regular maintenance and servicing of the Refrigeration Unit as well as the vehicle itself, are vital to the longevity of refrigerated vans. Our sister company, Pola Cap Refrigeration offers fridge van servicing within a 75km radius of Droitwich to ensure that your fleet operates efficiently and reliably, hence reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns

Local Expertise

Pola Cap Refrigeration have a fully mobile fridge engineer based in Worcester. This local expertise allows them to provide tailored solutions for businesses who utilise refrigerated vans in the area.

The Future of Refrigerated Transportation

Refrigerated transport is not just a service you provide to your customers; it allows your business to deliver your products across a wide area. In addition, adapting to changing customer demands, whilst maintaining total temperature control and achieving the highest standards of quality when your products arrive with your customers is always challenging. However, utilising Vanfridge and Pola Van Rental to supply your new or used refrigerated vehicles, for both Rental and Purchase allows your business to achieve all of the above efficiently and effectively.

Make us your trusted partner for refrigerated vehicles, allowing you to transport and deliver your products to the highest quality level your customers demand.

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What Are The Pros And Cons Of Purchase vs Long Term Rental?

Admin — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 14:49:32 +0000

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Purchase vs Long Term Rental?

When you review your companies transport requirements, the choice to Purchase or Rent your refrigerated vehicles is a both a critical and sometimes difficult decision. As we operate two refrigerated van businesses, one in each area, we have experience of both types of procurement and therefore are able to help you weigh up the pros and cons of each option. Therefore, in this section, we’ll explore both Purchase and Rental, helping you make an informed choice, which is tailored to your specific business requirements.

The Advantages of Long-Term Rental

Known Costs

One of the most significant advantages of Rental is that your costs, with the exception of fuel, fully comprehensive insurance and driver’s wages are all fixed for the period of the Rental. For example, if your business experiences seasonal fluctuations, Long Term Rental can be more economical than Purchase, as these variations are effectively amortised over the whole Rental period. Even if your business is not seasonal, you still pay a fixed rental price each month. This monthly rental covers the supply of a refrigerated vehicle built to your specification, which is fitted with decals of your company’s logos (not Pola Van Rentals) and includes all refrigeration unit maintenance, vehicle maintenance, Tyres (fair wear & tear, not damage) and annual Road Fund Licence costs. As ALL of these costs are covered in a monthly Rental price, you have a known cost vehicle for the 3, 4 or 5, year rental period.

All Types of Refrigerated Van

Whether you require a freezer specification, chill specification or pharmaceutical specification van, they can all be on a Long-Term Rental contract with Pola Van Rental. We can provide you with the ideal Rental vehicle for your specific cargo and temperature requirements.

Maintenance and Repairs

When you have a Long-Term Rental refrigerated van from Pola Van Rental, you will benefit from our expertise on maintenance and servicing, especially on the refrigeration unit. Our well-maintained Rental Fleet can also provide additional cover in the event of an unexpected breakdowns or VOR during an accident repair of another refrigerated vehicle from your fleet. In addition, as a Long-Term Rental customer, you’ll enjoy special Pola Van Rental pricing to help your business through these situations.

Flexible Rental Agreements

Pola Van Rental can also provide flexibility to adapt to changes in your business, For example:-

We can easily adjust your current rental agreement to match any changes in your annual mileages, reducing potential end of Contract excess mileage charges.
Offer an annual minimum 6-month Rental every year for 3 years, supplying the same vehicle at the same monthly rental rate, to cope with your seasonal demands (based on a minimum 3-year Contract)

Whatever you request, we are always happy to discuss flexible rental agreements to match your requirements.

The Advantages of Vehicle Purchase

Medium Term Investment

Depending on your accountant’s advice or your personal choice, purchasing your vehicles by Outright Purchase (Cash or Hire Purchase) means they will show as an asset on your balance sheet. If you Lease or utilise Long Term Rental, they will not be assets on your balance sheet. As an asset they will add to the value of the net worth of your business. However, unlike property or machinery commercial vehicles are always a depreciating asset. Consequently, their value will decrease over usage and time. However, they have value as a medium-term investment opportunity which will add to your business value and may be a valuable part of the negotiations if you decide to sell your business at some time in the future.

Customisation

The Outright Purchase of a fully specified factory ordered new refrigerated van, will always allow you to customise the final product to your exact specifications. You can tailor the van’s features to meet the unique demands of your business, ensuring that it perfectly suits your operations. Obviously, this is not always possible when utilising existing new vehicles from Stock or used refrigerated vehicles.

Based on a Long-Term Rental Contract of 3 or more years, Pola Van Rental does offer total customisation to your exact specification, allowing it to match this outright purchase advantage. Therefore, using a brand-new vehicle from Pola Van Rental for Long Term Rental means the final decision becomes solely based on your decision to rent or buy.

Warranty, Service & Maintenance and Residual Values

When you purchase a refrigerated van outright by Outright or Hire Purchase, all the responsibility for maintenance will be covered by you. However, you will have the vehicle and refrigeration unit manufacturer’s warranty to cover the first tranche of these costs, but in order to ensure this support, you will have to ensure that you fully comply with their terms and conditions of servicing and maintenance for the warranty period. You will also have the opportunity, with most vehicle manufacturers, to purchase an extension of their warranty for the first few months after first registration. These extensions will be mileage and/or time based. However, on the day these warranties expire you will have to cover all costs of breakdown, any component failure along with ongoing service and maintenance costs. On a positive front, you will own either all of or a portion of the vehicle by this time, and it will always retain some residual value, irrespective how small. When you have settled any outstanding Hire Purchase debt, it will be possible to utilise all remaining funds from the sale to use as a deposit on a new van or absorb into your business cash flow.

Long-Term Rental generally covers all costs associated with the vehicle for the full rental term, even when the manufacturers warranties have expired. However, in the case of any rental contract, you retain NO residual value when you return the vehicle at the end of the rental term

Full Ownership

Full ownership provides you with complete control over your refrigerated van. You do not have to adhere to rental agreements or return deadlines, which may be preferable for your business model. Your business name will also be on the V5 from when you purchased the vehicle and you will retain its final worth.

In conclusion, the decision between Outright Purchase or Long-Term Rental of your next refrigerated van ultimately depends on your specific business circumstances at the time, personal choice and the financial advice you receive. However, we can give free unbiased 3rd party advice as both Pola Van Rental and Vanfridge have over 20 years daily experience in both sectors.

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10 Tips When Purchasing A Refrigerated Van

Admin — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 14:47:58 +0000

10 Tips When Purchasing A Refrigerated Van

When it comes to purchasing a refrigerated van, there are numerous factors to consider. Vanfridge Ltd, an established business since 2002, is here to provide you with some valuable insights and guidance. In this article, we’ll explore 10 essential Tips to keep in mind when buying a used refrigerated van. For your peace of mind, on ALL retail sales of Vanfridge Used Refrigerated Vans, each of these 10 items will have been discussed, investigated, checked and resolved prior to delivery:-

1. What Specification Suits Your Business Needs

Before you enter the potential minefield of used refrigerated van shopping, take a moment to understand your own specific business requirements. Consider the types of products you’ll be transporting, the quantity, and the distance you’ll need to travel whilst still controlling their temperature. To negate your risk during this process, ask Vanfridge for provide advice and assistance, to help you select the right refrigerated vehicle.

2. Determine Your Budget

Budgeting is a critical aspect of any business decision, and purchasing a refrigerated van is no exception. You should have a clear idea of how much you’re willing to spend. Keep in mind that while upfront costs are significant, ongoing expenses like maintenance and fuel efficiency should also be considered. Once again, Vanfridge can offer advice on a particular vehicle, therefore reducing your future operating costs.

3. Used Vans

Used vans should always be inspected for wear and tear. This can prove difficult when you are viewing a used vehicle on a website and the drive to its location for viewing may be many hours away. Once again using Vanfridge will help remove these risks. Before offering any refrigerated vehicle for retail sale, we will have carried out a full condition and history check on all parts of the vehicle and all remedial work required will be carried out before delivery to your premises.

We’ll also answer any questions you may have to save you the journey to view our vans, providing any photographs or written confirmations you wish to request. Of course, you can visit our premises during office hours, where you will be made very welcome.

4. Check Refrigeration Unit Specification

The primary function of your van is to maintain the temperature of your cargo. Ensuring the refrigeration unit is reliable and capable of maintaining the desired temperature range is essential prior to purchase. As an approved GAH and Hubbard Zanotti dealer, and approved Carrier installer, Vanfridge will have completed all these pre-retail sale checks, and any servicing or repair work required will always be carried out.

5. Used Vehicle Inspection

Whichever used refrigerated van you decide upon, be sure to review its complete maintenance records from new, on both the vehicle and its refrigeration unit. A refrigerated van which has been well-maintained is much less likely to encounter breakdowns and will save you money on potential future repairs. Wherever possible, Vanfridge will have comprehensive maintenance records with each of the used refrigerated vans we retail. If we don’t have this information, we’ll make you fully aware of its omission prior to any sale agreement.

6. Fuel Efficiency

In these days of high energy costs, fuel efficiency is always a top priority. Therefore, where possible, roof mounted refrigeration unit condensers should be fitted in a recessed condenser mould above the cab. This usually only applies to 3.5t GVW vans fitted with a medium or high roof, as it is unlikely to be achievable on vans below 3.0t GVW, which almost always have a low roof as standard and there is no choice other than to roof mount the refrigeration unit condensor e.g. Ford Transit Connect; Citroen Dispatch; Mercedes Vito. ALL retail Vanfridge used refrigerated vans with a High or Medium Roof (usually 3.5t GVW) will have recessed condensor moulds above the cab. If not, we will only sell them as trade vehicles, as they have a lower residual value and do not meet modern energy saving requirements.

7. Size and Storage Capacity

Always select a van size that suits your business needs. Make sure it has enough storage space for your products, either on pallets, plastic trays or handball. If required, we can add alloy shelving and alloy loadspace protection retrospectively to most used refrigerated vans prior to delivery. This also applies to many other options e.g. Hope T Bars; Parking Sensors; Alarms etc.

Vanfridge can also retrospectively fit Overnight electric Standby, but the fitting costs are high and usually its cheaper to find an alternative vehicle, where electric Standby was fitted from new.

8. Consider the Resale Value

Even if you plan to keep your refrigerated van for a long time, it’s essential to consider its potential resale value. Opting for a reputable original vehicle manufacturer, a good quality original conversion and an originally correctly specified and fitted refrigeration unit can positively impact a van’s future resale value. Vans originally supplied by Vanfridge, either taken in part exchange or de-fleeted from our own Rental Fleet always meet the above requirements.

9. Research Financing Options

Investigate the available financing plans and choose one that aligns with your budget and cash flow. Don’t base your purchase solely on the cost of the monthly payments you can afford.

Check the vans actual market price before buying, and how much interest you will be paying over the agreement term to achieve the “attractive monthly costs”. High percentage interest charges can easily be hidden by an overall higher van sale price. Once again, Vanfridge can help.

We have long term relationships with a number of Finance Brokers and Companies who will give you good sound advice. Vanfridge will not be part of this process, merely offer suggestions of companies we trust and use regularly to finance our own Rental Fleet vehicles.

10. Safety Features

Last but not least, prioritize safety features. Your refrigerated van should come equipped with the latest safety technologies to protect both your cargo and your drivers. They are both very valuable items for your business.

In conclusion, purchasing a high-quality retail used refrigerated van is always a significant investment. By following these 10 Tips and considering your own specific business requirements and budget you can make a well-informed decision that ensures your products stay fresh and your business can provide great solutions for your customers.

Give Vanfridge the opportunity, we’ll give you sound advice and provide a high quality used refrigerated vehicle that suits your business.

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