How to Choose the Best Refrigeration Unit for Your Refrigerated Truck: A Complete Guide
Release time:
Mar 31,2025
Introduction
Refrigerated trucks are the backbone of cold chain logistics, ensuring perishable goods like food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals stay fresh during transport. But the real hero is the refrigeration unit—choosing the wrong one can lead to spoiled cargo and lost profits.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✅ Independent vs. non-independent refrigeration units
✅ How cargo size and transport distance affect your choice
✅ Temperature requirements for different goods
✅ Top refrigeration unit brands (Carrier, Thermo King, Jinda, and more)
Let’s dive in!
1. Independent vs. Non-Independent Refrigeration Units
Independent Refrigeration Units
- Self-powered (separate engine or electric drive)
- Best for: Long-haul transport, frequent stops (e.g., delivery trucks)
- Pros: Runs even when the truck engine is off
- Cons: Higher upfront cost
Non-Independent Refrigeration Units
- Powered by the truck’s engine
- Best for: Short-distance urban deliveries
- Pros: Lower cost, fuel-efficient
- Cons: Stops cooling if the engine is off
💡 Pro Tip: If your truck is under 6 meters, a non-independent unit may suffice. For larger trucks or long-distance trips, go independent.
2. Choosing Based on Cargo Body Size
| Truck Size | Recommended Unit Type | Typical Use Case |
| Under 6m | Non-independent | Urban deliveries, small loads |
| 6m+ | Independent | Long-haul, heavy loads |
| Semi-trailers | Large independent | Cross-country freight |
Why? Smaller trucks don’t need extra power, while larger trucks require stronger cooling.
3. Temperature Requirements for Different Cargo
Different goods need precise temperature control:
❄️ Frozen foods (ice cream, seafood): -18°C or lower
🥩 Chilled meats: -5°C to 0°C
🍎 Fresh produce: 0°C to 10°C (varies by type)
💊 Pharmaceuticals/vaccines: Strictly controlled (2°C to 8°C)
⚠️ Critical: Some units offer automatic defrosting—essential for humidity-sensitive goods like pharmaceuticals.
4. Best Refrigeration Unit Brands in 2025
🏆 Global Leaders
- Carrier – Pioneers in transport refrigeration
- Thermo King – Reliable for heavy-duty use
🤝 Top Joint-Venture Brand
- Guangzhou Jinda (Denso JV) – High-tech, energy-efficient units
🇨🇳 Trusted Chinese Brands
- Zhengzhou Kaixue, Xinxiang Huatai, Xuelian – Budget-friendly with solid performance
💸 Price Comparison:
- Global brands = Premium cost, max reliability
- Chinese brands = Affordable, good for domestic logistics
5. Key Takeaways: How to Pick the Right Unit
- Short trips? → Non-independent unit (saves fuel).
- Long hauls? → Independent unit (keeps cooling during stops).
- Carrying frozen goods? → Look for -18°C capability.
- Pharma/medical? → Choose a unit with precise temp control & defrosting.
- Budget-conscious? → Chinese brands offer great value.
Final Thoughts
The right refrigeration unit protects your cargo and maximizes efficiency. Whether you’re transporting ice cream, fresh produce, or life-saving vaccines, matching the unit to your truck size, distance, and temperature needs is crucial.
Need help choosing? Check out trusted suppliers like Carrier or Thermo King for expert advice.
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