The most practical and efficient way to transport temperature controlled cargo in Singapore is via a refrigerated truck. In this guide, you will learn more about truck refrigeration as well as consideration points when buying a refrigerated truck.
Refrigerated trucks are referred to by many names in Singapore. Some examples are : reefer truck, chiller truck, freezer truck and cold truck. They all refer to a truck equipped with an
Before refrigerated trucks appeared, businesses used ice blocks to slow heat gain. This method ensured fresh deliveries only up to the point before the ice melted.
Another reason to invest into a refrigerated truck is the fact that getting a license to operate a meat, fish and egg processing establishment from the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) also requires the usage of refrigerated trucks for collection and delivery.
In Singapore, refrigerated trucks are categorized by their length. Common sizes are 10,12,14,17 and 24ft trucks. Besides trucks, there is also the option of refrigerated vans. However, there are limitations to carrying refrigerated goods in a van. Here’s why you should opt for a refrigerated truck instead of a van.
On a side note, refrigerated trucks are also categorized between diesel and electric varients. Electric vehicles are fast gaining popularity due to Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 and we do have offerings to complement the nation’s sustainability drive.
It may seem like a complicated process when buying a refrigerated truck in Singapore especially if you are just starting out, but worry not because we are here to help.
There are 3 main considerations to buying a refrigerated truck :
Know your Product Temperature
Different products require different temperature ranges to maintain their safety, quality, and shelf life. It’s critical to understand the specific temperature requirements of what you’re transporting before deciding on a refrigeration unit.
Frozen goods like ice cream, seafood, and meat typically need to be kept at -18°C or lower.
Chilled goods such as dairy, fresh produce, and some beverages generally require 0°C to 4°C.
Pharmaceutical products or high-risk items may require precise, stable temperature control with tracking.
Depending on your product, you’ll need to select the right refrigeration unit (e.g. deep freeze vs. chiller) and insulation thickness according to the size of the box.Â
Tip :Selecting a higher powered refrigeration system also helps with quicker temperature pull downs to accommodate heat entry when doors are open during unloading.
Size of insulated box
Understanding your cargo volume helps determine the size and configuration of your refrigerated truck. Consider also the platform you may be using, baskets, boxes, roll cages or pallets. Knowing their dimensions multiplied by the quantity carried will give you a very good idea of how much space you need. Over- or under-sizing the truck can lead to inefficiencies or logistical problems.
For light loads or tight delivery routes (like central Singapore), a 10 box might be sufficient and easier to maneuver.
If you deliver to multiple clients or carry palletized goods, a 14ft box will provide better capacity and return on each trip.
Large-scale distributors like logistic transporters may need 24ft boxes with tail-gates for heavy loading.
Not sure about selecting a box size? Link up with us to find out more.
Materials used in the insulated box construction
The quality and specification of materials used affect operational lifespan, temperature pull down performance and food safety requirements. As you most probably will be committing to a 10 year COE when investing in a refrigerated truck, it is ideal to choose a box that can last long and perform consistently. Choose Hwee Jan as your cold chain partner as our units are constructed with :-
Hwee Jan carries a full range of high performance truck refrigeration systems that caters to all box sizes.
The servicing frequency for each refrigeration system differs according to usage. Moderate users operating their trucks between 6-8 hours a day generally need to be serviced once half yearly. Those with heavier usage between 8-<10 hours a day would expect more frequent servicing, once every quarter.
Receive expert care for your unit from our experienced and professional service team, and rest easy with the knowledge that only genuine Mitsubishi spare parts are used.
Schedule an appointment with us or simply purchase a Comprehensive Maintenance Package for a hassle free experience.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
82 Joo Koon Circle, Singapore 629101
Mon-Fri: 8.30-5.30pm
Sat: 8.30-12.30pm
