To get the most out of a refrigerated trailer long-term, it’s important to think about thermal performance, durability, and operational efficiency, all working together.
We spoke with Tim Schmeits, Director of Engineering for Everest Reefers at Great Dane, who shared some interesting insights about spec’ing for maximum reefer efficiency.
Refrigerated Trailers: Features Built For Efficiency
“A long-haul application will have the same load for multiple days and a consistent hookup,” Schmeits said. “Regional distribution trailers are coupled and decoupled frequently, loaded and unloaded daily. That impacts wear, especially on the floor, doors, and landing gear.”
For increased durability and efficiency, Everest reefers offer options like:
- Thicker upper coupler plates for frequent hook/unhook cycles
- Stronger landing gear bracing
- Reinforced flat “Reefer Cargo Floor” designs for heavy forklift use
- Roll-up doors for easy access on high-stop routes
For long-hauls, swing doors may be the better choice, offering a tighter thermal seal and fewer moving parts.
Want more info? Take a closer look at Everest refrigerated trailers.
Optimize Refrigerated Trailer Insulation Without Sacrificing Payload
Unseen specs are just as important as the ones your driver uses each day. You probably already know that insulation can be your secret weapon for thermal performance, but the right thickness depends on your operation. More insulation reduces TRU runtime and fuel costs but adds weight and reduces space.
“More insulation is better thermally,” Schmeits said, “but it adds weight and reduces interior space.”
Strengthening our commitment to sustainability, we’ve switched to an HFO based blowing agent for our foam insulation process, helping fleets reduce their carbon footprint. Find out more here.
How Much Is Enough?
For frozen loads, Schmeits recommends up to three inches of sidewall insulation, protecting TRU overwork in hot weather. For produce or shorter routes, lighter insulation may be enough.
In every case, Everest’s ThermoGuard liner keeps insulation from degradation and the trailer from moisture intrusion. Take a closer look at how ThermoGuard increases thermal performance.
Of course, keeping the cold in is just one part of the story. Protecting your investment means building strength into the trailer itself.
Strong by Design, Smart Where It Counts
Downtime and repairs can quickly add up. Everest reefers are built for long-term durability with features like:
- Composite, rot-proof floor sills, rather than traditional wood sills
- I-beam shaped sills for better load distribution
- Galvanized rear impact guards, tire carriers, and support bracing
- An optional stainless steel rear frame for impact resistance
Interested in seeing how our rear frame design is engineered for impact resistance? Take a quick look.
The Priciest Component? It May Surprise You
“The trailer floor is the most expensive component to replace,” Schmeits explained. “So especially for regional fleets, it makes sense to spec a floor that can take repeated hits from forklifts and loading docks.”
While strength keeps the trailer working longer, smart technology helps fleets get even more efficiency out of every mile.
Technology Driving Smarter Efficiency
FleetPulse telematics, standard on Everest reefers since 2021, provides real-time visibility into location as well as mileage data, geofences, automated yard checks, proprietary trailer specifications, and more. Offering even deeper insights, FleetPulse Pro provides a full suite of smart sensors, including temperature monitoring, open door alerts, and engine run cutout (ERC) switches to further help fleets reduce TRU wear and save fuel.
“FleetPulse doesn’t stop thermal loss, but it helps manage it,” Schmeits said. “You can monitor trailer conditions and intervene before it becomes a service issue.”
Interested in learning more about the insights FleetPulse can provide? Start here.
Reefer Specs & Route Planning Go Hand-in-Hand
Spec’ing the right reefer starts with route planning. Factors like stop frequency, idle times, and freight type shape the best choices for insulation, flooring, and door design.
“Route planning data is a powerful tool,” said Schmeits. “It helps us recommend the right insulation thickness, door types, bulkheads, and even floor configurations to keep the trailer operating at peak efficiency.”
Spec Strategically
A trailer spec is a strategic decision. With the Everest model, fleets have options to match routes, climates, and cargo demands with durable, fuel-efficient, low-maintenance designs. From foam press-controlled insulation to impact-resistant frames, Great Dane reefers are built to handle your daily challenges.
Ready to optimize your fleet’s efficiency? Let’s connect today so we can help get you on the road to greater productivity.
