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Using Dry Van Trailers with Refrigeration Units for Cold Chain Transportation: Parameters, Configuration, and How to Choose

Using Dry Van Trailers with Refrigeration Units for Cold Chain Transportation: Parameters, Configuration, and How to Choose

Cold chain logistics is essential for transporting temperature-sensitive goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. While reefer trailers are commonly used, many logistics operators are now converting or equipping dry van trailers with refrigeration units to achieve a cost-effective cold chain transportation solution.

This article explains how dry van trailers can be adapted for refrigerated transport, which parameters matter most, what additional configurations are required, and how to choose the right setup for different industries and routes.

Can Dry Van Trailers Be Used for Cold Chain Transportation?

Yes. A dry van trailer can be converted into a refrigerated or temperature-controlled trailer by installing a refrigeration unit and upgrading insulation, airflow, and sealing systems.

This solution is ideal for:

  • Short to medium-distance cold chain transport

  • Regional food distribution

  • Cost-sensitive logistics operations

However, proper configuration is essential to maintain temperature stability and meet regulatory requirements.

Application Scenarios for Dry Van Trailers with Refrigeration Units

1. Food & Beverage Distribution

  • Fresh vegetables and fruits

  • Dairy products

  • Packaged meat

  • Frozen and chilled beverages

Dry vans with refrigeration are widely used for urban and regional food deliveries.

2. Pharmaceutical & Medical Logistics

  • Medicines

  • Vaccines

  • Medical supplies

Requires precise temperature control and monitoring systems.

3. Chemical & Temperature-Sensitive Materials

  • Industrial chemicals

  • Adhesives

  • Specialty liquids

Stable internal temperature prevents product degradation.

4. E-commerce & Retail Cold Logistics

  • Frozen foods

  • Fresh groceries

  • Cold storage transfers

Dry van refrigerated solutions are cost-efficient for high-frequency deliveries.

Key Parameters to Consider When Installing Refrigeration in Dry Van Trailers

1. Refrigeration Unit Capacity

Measured in BTU or kW, the cooling capacity must match:

  • Cargo volume

  • Required temperature range

  • Ambient temperature

Typical ranges:

  • Chilled goods: 0°C to +8°C (32°F–46°F)

  • Frozen goods: -18°C to -25°C (-0.4°F–-13°F)

2. Insulation Thickness & Material

Unlike reefer trailers, standard dry vans lack insulation.

Recommended upgrades:

  • Polyurethane foam insulation

  • Wall thickness: 50–100 mm

  • Floor insulation with thermal barrier

Better insulation = lower energy consumption.

3. Air Circulation & Ventilation

Proper airflow ensures uniform temperature.

Key components:

  • Air ducts

  • Evaporator fans

  • Return air channels

Poor airflow causes temperature imbalance and product spoilage.

4. Trailer Sealing Performance

Cold leakage is a major issue.

Required improvements:

  • Airtight door seals

  • Insulated rear doors

  • Reduced thermal bridges

5. Power Supply Options

Refrigeration units can be powered by:

  • Diesel engine

  • Electric standby (shore power)

  • Hybrid systems

Electric standby is recommended for:

  • Warehouses

  • Distribution centers

  • Urban deliveries

6. Temperature Monitoring & Data Logging

Required for compliance and quality control.

Recommended systems:

  • Digital temperature recorders

  • GPS-based temperature monitoring

  • Alarm systems for temperature deviation

Additional Configurations Recommended for Cold Chain Dry Vans

To ensure reliable cold chain performance, consider adding:

1. Insulated Flooring

  • Aluminum T-floor or insulated plywood

  • Prevents cold loss from below

2. Partition Walls

  • Allows multi-temperature zones

  • Useful for mixed cargo transport

3. Backup Power System

  • Ensures cooling during breakdowns

  • Prevents cargo loss

4. Anti-Condensation System

  • Reduces moisture

  • Prevents mold and corrosion

5. Door Curtain or Air Curtain

  • Minimizes temperature loss during loading/unloading

How to Choose the Right Dry Van Refrigeration Setup (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Define Cargo Temperature Requirements

Frozen vs chilled goods require different unit capacities.

Step 2: Determine Transport Distance

  • Short-haul → smaller refrigeration unit

  • Long-haul → higher capacity + better insulation

Step 3: Evaluate Ambient Climate

Hot regions require:

  • Higher BTU output

  • Stronger insulation

Step 4: Select Power Type

  • Diesel → long routes

  • Electric standby → warehouse operations

Step 5: Check Compliance Requirements

Food and pharma transport often require:

  • Temperature logs

  • Cleanable interior

  • Regulatory certification

Step 6: Compare Cost vs Reefer Trailer

Dry van + refrigeration:

  • Lower initial cost

  • Higher retrofit complexity

Dry Van with Refrigeration vs Standard Reefer Trailer

Feature Dry Van + Refrigeration Reefer Trailer
Initial Cost Lower Higher
Insulation Retrofit required Built-in
Temperature Stability Medium–High Very High
Maintenance Moderate Higher
Best Use Regional transport Long-haul cold chain

Conclusion

Equipping a dry van trailer with a refrigeration unit is a practical and cost-effective solution for cold chain transportation when properly configured. By selecting the right refrigeration capacity, insulation, sealing, airflow, and monitoring systems, dry vans can meet the demands of food, pharmaceutical, and temperature-sensitive logistics.

For short to medium distances and budget-focused operations, dry van refrigerated solutions offer flexibility and efficiency without the high investment of a full reefer trailer.

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