9 Expert Tips Before Hiring a Refrigerated Trailer

Picture this: You're organising a grand summer wedding, and the forecast predicts a scorcher. The last thing you want is for the wedding cake to melt or the champagne to go lukewarm. Enter the refrigerated trailer - your cool solution to hot weather woes. But before you rush to hire one, let's chat about some insider tips that'll ensure you make the right choice.

Understanding Your Needs

First things first, what exactly are you cooling? A trailer full of ice cream will have different requirements compared to one storing fresh produce. Consider the following:

Temperature Requirements

Different products need different temperatures. Frozen goods might require -18°C, while fresh produce could be happy at 2-8°C. Knowing your temperature needs is key to choosing the right trailer.

Space Requirements

How much are you storing? There's no point in hiring a massive trailer if you're only cooling a few boxes of chocolates. Conversely, you don't want to squeeze a week's worth of catering into a tiny fridge on wheels.

Duration of Hire

Are you looking at a one-day event or a month-long project? The duration can affect both the type of trailer you choose and the cost.

Researching Rental Companies

Now that you know what you need, it's time to find who can provide it. When it comes to fridge trailer hire in UK, there are plenty of options. Here's what to look out for:

Reputation and Reviews

In the age of the internet, there's no excuse for not checking out a company's reputation. Look for reviews, ask for references, and don't be shy about reaching out to past customers.

Range of Equipment

A good rental company should offer a variety of trailers to suit different needs. If they're trying to force a one-size-fits-all solution, it might be time to look elsewhere.

Industry Experience

Has the company worked with businesses in your industry before? Their experience can be invaluable, especially when it comes to understanding specific requirements.

Assessing Trailer Specifications

Right, let's get a bit technical. When you're looking at trailers, pay attention to these specs:

Power Source

Some trailers run on electricity, others on diesel. Each has its pros and cons. Electric trailers are quieter but need a power source, while diesel ones are more independent but can be noisier.

Cooling Capacity

This is about how quickly the trailer can cool down and maintain temperature. A trailer with a strong cooling capacity will recover faster when the door is opened frequently.

Insulation Quality

Good insulation means better temperature control and lower energy costs. Ask about the insulation type and thickness.

Trailer Maintenance and Condition

You wouldn't rent a car without checking its condition, would you? The same goes for refrigerated trailers.

Age and Condition

Newer isn't always better, but a well-maintained older trailer can outperform a neglected newer one. Ask about the trailer's age and maintenance history.

Cleaning and Sanitisation

This is particularly important if you're storing food. The trailer should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitised between hires.

Pre-hire Inspection

Always inspect the trailer before agreeing to hire it. Check for any damage, ensure all features are working, and test the cooling system.

Rental Terms and Conditions

Now for the paperwork. Boring? Maybe. Important? Absolutely.

Insurance Coverage

What's covered in case of an accident or breakdown? Make sure you understand the insurance terms and what you're liable for.

Delivery and Collection

Will they deliver and collect the trailer, or do you need to arrange transport? This can significantly affect your overall costs and logistics.

Minimum Hire Period

Some companies have minimum hire periods. If you only need the trailer for a day, a company with a week-long minimum hire might not be the best choice.

Customer Support and Assistance

Things can go wrong, and when they do, you want to know help is at hand.

24/7 Support

If your trailer breaks down at 2 am, will someone answer your call? Check what kind of support is available and when.

Technical Assistance

Can they provide guidance on operating the trailer? This is particularly important if you're new to using refrigerated trailers.

Emergency Replacement

What happens if the trailer fails? Can they provide a replacement quickly?

Budget Considerations

Money matters, but cheapest isn't always best when it comes to refrigerated trailers.

Total Cost of Hire

Consider all costs: rental fee, delivery, fuel, and any potential extra charges. The headline daily rate might not tell the whole story.

Value for Money

A slightly more expensive trailer that's more reliable and efficient could save you money in the long run.

Payment Terms

Understand when payment is due and what methods are accepted. Some companies might require a deposit upfront.

Planning and Logistics

A bit of planning can save a lot of headaches later.

Site Preparation

Where will you put the trailer? Is there a power source nearby if needed? Is the ground level and stable?

Access Considerations

Can the delivery vehicle reach your site? Are there any height or width restrictions to consider?

Staffing

Who will be responsible for monitoring the trailer? Do they need any specific training?

Final Inspection and Agreement

Before you sign on the dotted line, do a final check.

Documentation

Ensure all paperwork is in order, including the rental agreement, insurance documents, and operating instructions.

Final Walk-through

Do a final inspection with the rental company representative. Note any existing damage or issues.

Understand Your Responsibilities

Be clear on what you're responsible for during the hire period, from refuelling to basic maintenance.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a refrigerated trailer doesn't have to be a headache. With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to finding the perfect cool solution for your needs. Remember, it's not just about keeping things cold; it's about peace of mind knowing your goods are stored safely and efficiently.

At Icecool Trailers, we've seen it all when it comes to refrigerated trailer hire. We know that every customer's needs are unique, which is why we offer a range of solutions and personalised advice. Why not check out our expert tips before hiring cold rooms for more insights?

Whether you're planning a big event, managing a construction project, or dealing with a kitchen emergency, we're here to help keep things cool. So, ready to chill? Get in touch, and let's find the perfect refrigerated trailer for you!