Older Reefer Trailer Questions

you would be surprised how many smaller places are actually the customer, especially if they built the company and didn’t buy it…

you never know who’s who, that’s why you should be on your best behavior and appearance at all times

as much as I like the simplicity of old trucks and lack of an eld, I will never buy a used trailer again if I can help it, it’s a wear point that takes the most abuse, take as good of care of it as you can and throw it away when you are done with it.

 

There are some fine trucks on the road that are 20-30 years old. Hands have put their soul in them. Completely restored and kept tip top. Beautiful thing to operate. The focus is on the trailers.
Reefer trailers, I don’t see the value in age. They just don’t hold up. They are a replacement item. Shippers, receivers, and those in between don’t want their food products held at the highest standard, shipped with damaged or stained walls. They want a stain free and damage free floor and now see the value of added antimicrobial finishes. When the guy loading you owns the product, (picking up at a farm or shed) it can really matter. Insurance companies like the lower amount of Reefer claims. It really pays to go with newer trailers when you haul food these days. Always, always let everyone know the quality of your service. Your accounts will reflect.

For the new guys, yes you can get worn equipment and hit the road earlier. Yes you can forever run ragged equipment and remain in business. Do you really want to be bellow average? Is that your legacy? Stay a company driver a little longer until you can afford the right tools to succeed and plenty extra in the bank. Don’t pinch Pennies at the sake of service. Pinch them elsewhere.

 

Disclaimer: been in reefer 14 months.

Never had an issue or been asked about age.

I have at least 3 loads a month that pay well, and require 53'