Trailers

Semi Trailers and Draw Bar Trailers

Buying a refrigerated trailer

The basic questions an operator should provide the seller with in order for the latest to supply the quotation for the right  product.

Purpose?  distribution, national (trunking or long distance), international operation?

If international operation: is it within or outside the EEC zone? Answer will define if you need a TIR certificate or not, will define the overall height allowed in some countries as well.

Will the vehicle be used with ferry boats ? if yes  accompanied or not … the answer will define the specification required in accordance with maritime regulation for this type of cargo like number and position of ferry shackles, provision support for trestles ,height of the under- run bumper etc…,

Operational temperature band required ?  some trailers never operate in sub zero temperature and therefore can be accommodated with less powerful refrigeration systems.

Single temp or multi temp ?  if multi temp requirement for two or more compartments and temperature band per compartment?

Configuration of compartments if required?  fixed or mobile partitioning for lane compartments  or transversal compartments?

Type of load: loose, palettes ( size euro 800 x 1200 or metric 1000x1200 )roller cages, mobile containers etc…,?

Type of rear closure required: full aperture double rear doors, shutter door, insulated tailift.

Bodywork accessories:load restraint system (floor centers and type),type of floor gritted grp, 5 bars chequer plate, barley seed floor, rear chequer plate entrance only, lights type and number , fridge guard internal and external, air chutes, side door( width and position) etc…  

Detailed technical questions related to the chassis or boggie:

Trailer configuration: tridem, tandem, single axle

• Axles: fixed, self steering axle, steering axle(s)
• Clear internal length and width required (this is particularly important with multi compartment configuration).
• Clear height required under the headboard of the rear frame or rear shutter door or under the movable bulkhead if fitted with.

advisable for the operator to indicate the type of tractors he will used as this will be important to define the kingpin position for any tandem or single axle configuration.

Ancillaries required: EBS, ABS, sliding air and electric coupling connections, palettes carrier, tool box, double or single spare wheel carrier, rear access type….

Tailift requirement:  type ? retractable, counter…………, column taillift, accessories required for the tailift function In reference to operational or safety issues.

Refrigeration  option: Operator can have an opinion on the matter but  if the above questions have been answered the seller should be able to offer  and or guide the operator in a choice meeting his operational requirements: it is however essential to precise the following for mechanical units only: diesel or diesel and electric operated?

Temperature monitoring and recording requirements  can be made clear to the seller knowing some operational requirements (i.e.frozen food ) impose the need for such equipment by law.