Cold Storage Tips
10 minute read

Find the Perfect Small Refrigerated Trailer Rental Near You

small refrigerated trailer for rent
Written by
Icebox Staff
Published on
September 11, 2024

Why Refrigerated Trailers are Essential

If you're looking for a small refrigerated trailer for rent to keep your perishable goods fresh, you're in the right place.

Quick Answers:

  • Size Options: Choose from 5’, 8’, or 12’ trailers based on your needs.
  • Use Cases: Small events, restaurants, hospitals, and emergencies.
  • Availability: Short-term and long-term rentals in Texas and Colorado.
  • Flexibility: Ideal for emergencies, special events, and seasonal changes.

Refrigerated trailers are an invaluable asset for anyone dealing with temperature-sensitive goods. Whether you're managing an event, running a restaurant, or handling emergency situations, having reliable, mobile refrigeration can make or break your operations. From keeping food items fresh to maintaining the quality of medical supplies, these trailers ensure your goods stay at the needed temperature.

Our small refrigerated trailers are not just for huge businesses; they are perfect for smaller, more intimate needs too. Imagine you're planning a small wedding or community event—having a 5’ trailer on-site for beverages or a little extra storage can save the day.

Let us walk you through everything you need to know to find the best small refrigerated trailer for your specific needs.

Summary of Small Refrigerated Trailer Options and Uses - small refrigerated trailer for rent infographic pillar-4-steps

A small refrigerated trailer (often called a "reefer trailer") is a mobile unit designed to keep perishable goods at a specific temperature. These trailers come equipped with built-in refrigeration units and insulation to ensure consistent temperature control, making them essential for transporting temperature-sensitive items.

Types of Small Refrigerated Trailers

Choosing the right type of small refrigerated trailer for rent depends on your specific needs. Here are the main types available:

Front Fixed

Front fixed refrigerated trailers have their temperature control unit placed at the front of the trailer. This setup is common and ensures that the cooling system is separate from the vehicle, providing consistent temperature control throughout the journey. These trailers often include environmentally-friendly condenser units, making them a reliable choice for keeping your cargo cool.

Multiple Temperature Zone

Multiple temperature zone trailers allow you to set different temperatures for different sections of the trailer. This is ideal if you need to transport various perishable items with different temperature requirements. For example, you could keep dairy products in one zone and fresh produce in another. This flexibility can save costs by consolidating multiple deliveries into one trip.

Wooden Floor

Wooden floor refrigerated trailers offer better air circulation due to the spacing between the wooden slats. This makes them a great option for items like fresh food or flowers that need good air flow to stay fresh. The wooden floors also provide more shock absorption than metallic floors, which can be beneficial for delicate cargo. However, keep in mind that wooden floors can retain moisture over time and may need to be replaced periodically.

Metallic Floor

Metallic floor trailers are more energy-efficient because the metal holds the required temperature longer. This type of flooring is ideal if you’re looking to save on energy costs. However, metallic floors do not provide the same level of air circulation as wooden floors and are more rigid, which could be a downside if you’re transporting fragile items.

Understanding these options can help you choose the best trailer for your specific needs. Whether you need a trailer for a small event, a restaurant, or an emergency situation, knowing the types available will ensure you make an informed decision.

Benefits of Renting a Small Refrigerated Trailer

Cost Savings

Renting a small refrigerated trailer can save you a lot of money compared to buying one. Daily rental rates start as low as $100, making it an affordable option for short-term needs. Weekly and monthly rentals also offer flexibility, with average costs around $959 per week and $2,650 per month.

Renting allows businesses to manage budgets effectively without the hefty upfront cost of purchasing a unit, which can range from $19,000 to $75,000.

Flexibility

One of the biggest advantages of renting a refrigerated trailer is the flexibility it offers. You can choose from short-term rentals for events or long-term rentals for ongoing needs. Trailers come in various sizes to fit different requirements, such as 5’, 8’, and 12’ options.

For example, Jesse Pappas, Co-Founder of Sinkland Farms Brewery, found renting multiple units for a large charity event to be incredibly convenient. "The containers worked beautifully and cooled quickly," he said.

Temperature Control

Maintaining consistent temperatures is crucial for transporting perishable goods. Our trailers come equipped with advanced refrigeration systems and digital temperature controls. This ensures that your items stay fresh, whether you need refrigeration or freezing capabilities.

Fact: Modern refrigerated containers can maintain temperatures from -40°F to +86°F using efficient electric systems.

Safe Transportation

Safety is a top priority when transporting perishable goods. Our insulated trailers offer excellent shock absorption and air circulation, making them ideal for delicate items like fresh food and flowers.

The wooden floors in some trailers provide better air flow, while metallic floors are more energy-efficient. This ensures that your cargo remains in perfect condition throughout the journey.

In summary, renting a small refrigerated trailer offers cost savings, flexibility, reliable temperature control, and safe transportation. Whether you need it for a short-term event or long-term business operations, renting is a smart and efficient choice.

How to Choose the Right Small Refrigerated Trailer for Rent

Choosing the right small refrigerated trailer for rent involves several key factors. Here's a breakdown of what to consider:

Size and Dimensions

The size of the trailer is crucial. The dimensions you need depend on what you plan to store. Common sizes include:

  • 6 ft x 8 ft x 7 ft: Ideal for small events or additional cold storage at a restaurant.
  • 12 ft x 6 ft x 6 ft: Perfect for medium-sized needs like catering or small supermarkets.
  • Max length 48 ft - 53 ft, max width 8 ft, max height 9 ft: Suitable for large-scale operations, such as supermarkets or large events.

Choosing the right size ensures you have enough space without overpaying for unused capacity.

Load Capacity

Consider what type of cargo you'll be transporting. Different trailers have varying load capacities:

  • Perishable cargo: Ensure the trailer can maintain the required temperature for items like dairy, meat, or pharmaceuticals.
  • Fresh food: Opt for trailers with good air circulation, like those with wooden floors.
  • Flowers: Trailers with wooden floors are also ideal for flowers due to better air circulation.
  • Frozen goods: Ensure the trailer can achieve and maintain freezing temperatures.

Engine and Power

The power source is another important factor. Here are some options:

  • Generator: Useful for remote locations without direct electrical access. A minimum of a 5,000-watt generator is typically required.
  • Power supply: Trailers can be plugged into standard 110-volt outlets, making them versatile for various settings.
  • Environmentally-friendly condenser units: These units are energy-efficient and reduce your carbon footprint.

Door Types

The type of door can affect accessibility and convenience:

  • Single door: Simple and easy to use, suitable for smaller operations.
  • Double door: Offers more accessibility, ideal for larger loads.
  • Roll-up door: Provides the best access and is useful for frequent loading and unloading.

Choosing the right door type can make your operations smoother and more efficient.

By considering these factors—size and dimensions, load capacity, engine and power, and door types—you can select the perfect small refrigerated trailer for rent that meets your specific needs.

Next, we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about small refrigerated trailer rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions about Small Refrigerated Trailer Rentals

What is a refrigerated trailer called?

A refrigerated trailer is often referred to as a reefer. These trailers are designed to transport temperature-sensitive goods and are equipped with built-in refrigeration units. They can be attached to semi-trucks, making them versatile for various transportation needs.

How long do refrigerated trailers last?

Refrigerated trailers typically last around 40,000 hours or approximately 8 years. However, regular maintenance can extend their lifespan. Keeping the refrigeration units in good working condition and addressing any wear and tear promptly can help maximize the trailer's longevity.

Are refrigerated trailers insulated?

Yes, refrigerated trailers are insulated to maintain consistent temperatures. This insulation, combined with built-in refrigeration units, ensures that perishable goods are kept at the required temperature throughout the journey. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the cold chain transport, ensuring that items like fresh food, flowers, and pharmaceuticals arrive in perfect condition.

Conclusion

At Icebox, we specialize in providing top-notch mobile refrigeration solutions that ensure your temperature-sensitive goods are always kept at the optimal temperature. Whether you need a small refrigerated trailer for rent for a short-term event or long-term storage, we have you covered.

Our 24-hour emergency service sets us apart, ensuring that you can always rely on us, no matter the time of day. We understand the urgency of keeping your products cool, and our team is ready to assist you whenever the need arises.

Setting up our units is a breeze. Our easy-to-set-up, 110-volt walk-in units are designed for convenience and efficiency, making them perfect for any situation—be it an unexpected freezer breakdown or a planned event.

For more information about our services and to find the perfect small refrigerated trailer rental near you, visit our locations page.

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