Dry Van vs. Reefer: Which is Best?

Choosing between a dry van and a reefer trailer largely depends on what the cargo requires. There are many products that will require refrigerated containers to avoid spoilage while in transit. However, there are some products that can be successfully transported in a dry van with little concern for contamination. This is actually true for many liquid products. 

But, the final decision often comes down to any advantage that may be gained by shipping a product in a room temperature atmosphere as opposed to a controlled temperature environment. Ensuring that you have a quality container is vital with either selection.

Advantages of a Dry Van

The first and most important advantage of dry van trailers is the expense, as they are the most competitively priced containers for a standard non-perishable product shipment. 

According to the dry van trailers professionals at Hale Trailer, they are also convenient in the fact that they can protect any cargo with sealed quarters that can keep products clean and dry for the entire shipping process. And, they are excellent containers for both short and long-haul projects for materials and products that do not require refrigeration.

Advantages of Reefer Vans

Reefer vans are absolutely required for some hauling jobs. Also known as refrigerated trailers, they are used when shipping anything that must be in a controlled temperature environment throughout the transfer from the point of origin to the ultimate destination. 

Many shippers do not have an option between reefer trailers and dry vans. However, reefer trailers actually can function like dry van trailers as well because refrigeration units can be shut off when not needed. They are actually very effective for products that must be maintained best in the 40-50 degree temperature range to ensure a quality product at the point of arrival.

So Which Trailer is Best?

From an overview, it is clear that reefer trailers do offer an added protection for sensitive items. Not only do reefer trailers have complete HVAC systems to control container temperatures, but they also have metal floors that can offer even more protection than a standard box van with wooden floors. They also typically come in 55 ft. length and maximum allowable width for hauling large loads, but both dry vans and reefer trailers come in a variety of suspension systems and sizes.

And, just like dry vans with no temperature concerns for the load, reefer vans can be dropped off for disposition with the refrigeration units operating independently until the cargo is ready to unload.

The truth is that deciding between dry vans and reefer trailers always depends on the cargo to be delivered and the transportation budget for the shipper. All business owners invest significantly in their product line, and it is vital to protect any shipment until it reaches the customer. 

The optimum type of cargo container typically becomes a question of whether a dry van can actually be used successfully, which also results in reduced operational expense and translates to company profits.