Difference between a refrigerated truck and an isothermal container
The most common refrigerated truck classes
A refrigerated truck is a vehicle equipped with a unit that actively generates cold or heat, depending on the external climate conditions.
- In summer, it maintains deep freezing.
- In winter, when the temperature drops below zero, the system keeps it above freezing, which is crucial for transporting chilled goods that don’t require freezing.
An isothermal container, on the other hand, is an insulated box that functions like a thermos. It doesn’t generate cold or heat but only preserves the existing microclimate for a limited time.
The choice between a refrigerated truck and an isothermal container depends on the type of goods being transported and the conditions that need to be maintained during transit. If you need a refrigerated truck, it is important to select the appropriate class based on the temperature required for the goods.
Refrigerated vehicles are classified by their insulation level and cooling capacity. The most used types are:
FRA — Chilling
FRA-class trucks maintain temperatures from 0 to +12°C. They lack advanced insulation but are ideal for transporting fresh fruits and vegetables, milk, beverages, eggs, and canned food that don’t require deep refrigeration.
FRB — Chilling plus light freezing
FRB trucks can maintain -10 to +12°C, suitable for both frozen and chilled goods. They are chosen based on the specific product’s storage needs.
FRC — Chilling plus deep freezing
FRC-class systems offer -20 to +12°C, making them the most versatile for frozen and perishable foods, ensuring recommended transport conditions.
In addition to the most commonly used classes,
the following classes are also used in refrigerated logistics:
FRD (from –20 °C to 0 °C)
FRE (down to –20 °C)
FRF (down to –30 °C)
These classes allow for tighter temperature control and are suitable for goods with specific storage requirements.
Our equipment can maintain a wide temperature range from -20 °C to +22 °C, allowing us to deliver all types of chilled and frozen goods. In certain cases, we also use an isothermal container.
Contact us to find the right transport solution for your cargo.
Refrigerated cargo transport and temperature control
To ensure product quality, strict temperature control is performed:
- Product and truck temperatures are recorded before departure.
- A form is signed by both the shipper and the transport representative.
- Upon delivery, the receiver checks and records the temperature as well.
This procedure eliminates storage-related risks.
Hygiene maintenance of fridge trucks
After delivery, the cargo area undergoes mandatory cleaning:
- Melting ice may leave moisture on walls.
- Workers' shoes can leave dirt inside.
To maintain hygiene, the truck is dried and disinfected after each trip.