Commercial Van Solutions

Reasons Your Business Needs a Refrigerated Van

Posted on August 4, 2021August 25, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

Many modern products require not just secure transport but precise temperature control as well throughout their journeys to clients. Floral arrangements, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage products, and more benefit from delivery in refrigerated vehicles.

These products are the foundation of a cold supply chain that millions of people rely on. Their careful preservation is of paramount importance for both customer health and satisfaction. There are many types of vehicles that provide insulation or refrigeration. Among them, refrigerated vans have distinct advantages over a larger reefer truck for some companies.

When hiring an outside company, there are natural boundaries between your business and theirs. Though they operate as an extension of your company, they have their own priorities and other clients that they work for.

An external party cannot work according to your schedule all the time, particularly when an issue comes up that delays things. Operating your own vans affords you the flexibility to work according to your clients’ needs without the limitations of a third party. The efficiency you gain in doing so is another reason your business needs a refrigerated van. By controlling these logistical elements, you ensure deliveries consistently get to your customers when they expect them.

The refrigerated van is such a more efficient choice than the classic box truck that it begins to cut costs. The compressor in a truck has to work double time just to keep the product at temperature, due to the size and seals of the rear compartment. The horribly inefficient seals for the back door cause the cold to leak out and let warmer air in.

Be aware of your budget regarding refrigerated home delivery van and how much interest and monthly payments will cost. Some commercial truck and home delivery van offer various financing options that you could consider. Another marked advantage is a refrigerated van’s relative maneuverability.

More compact than a truck, a van can reach where a truck can’t, often allowing you to deliver your product closer to a customer’s point of entry. This cuts down on the time your cool product spends in an unregulated, potentially hot environment. Also, they’re simply easier for your staff to operate.

Though this is a peripheral reason to buy a refrigerated truck, you can’t ignore the unique marketing opportunities of operating your own vehicle or fleet. Using your own branded vans gives your business more outside visibility, increasing would-be customers’ knowledge of your business. Over time, this has an overall positive effect on your business.

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5 Advantages of Hiring a Refrigerated Truck

Posted on July 20, 2021August 25, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

Refrigerated truck hire is becoming more common among business owners looking for peace of mind when delivering perishables. As a service growing in popularity, customers are now able to hire a truck that fits their individual needs perfectly, allowing for greater control of their business.

You Can Protect Your Cargo Without Breaking the Bank

Depending on the scope of your business, hiring a refrigerated truck can be the more cost-effective option. There can be significant additional expense when buying a refrigerated truck, with insurance, maintenance and running costs all needing to be considered. For business owners and entrepreneurs who need to transport perishables on an infrequent basis, hire companies can offer flexible and cost-effective options.

They Offer Scalable and Efficient Transport Solutions

By making use of a refrigerated truck for hire, you have the benefit of scalability. If you are regularly transporting perishables for a business where quantities are based on demand, hire makes more sense than buying as you can change the size of the truck you use on a needs basis. Hiring is also efficient as you can control exactly how your goods are delivered, mitigating the risk of a freight provider making a mistake in delivery that could negatively affect your business. You can also control timeframes for delivery better than you might when dealing with a freight provider.

You Can Ensure Your Goods are Handled Correctly

If you were to put your trust in a third party freight provider, it is hard to be confident that they will handle your goods exactly as you intend. For example, if you run a cake making business and need to transport elaborate cakes to an event, you cannot expect a freight provider to know how to best make that delivery without endangering your products. Different goods require different storage and delivery techniques, and it is best to put faith in your own ability when it comes to managing your business.

You Can Control Temperature Ranges

When utilising a refrigerated truck for hire, the hire company will allow you to set temperature ranges that suit your cargo. Whether your goods need to be chilled or kept entirely frozen, you can be sure that the hire company will be able to offer a truck with an ideal temperature range for your needs.

You Can Try Before You Buy

Established businesses who offer refrigerated trucks for hire have flexible loan terms. As a business owner weighing up whether to purchase a refrigerated truck, you might first consider an extended loan to better understand the nuances and efficiency of your desired vehicle.

cargo van

SHELF HELP: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO VAN SHELVING

Posted on July 20, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

Have you ever seen a cargo van that looks like the owner’s business exploded inside it? Imagine the impression a messy scene like that can make on a customer or potential customer. Plus, it’s not a fun or safe work environment. Don’t let this be your van!

Now picture a perfectly organized van with every tool and piece of equipment in its own designated space and plenty of room to get things done. Van customization and organization can keep you focused and help you avoid losing equipment or running late trying to find it. There are many ways to improve organization, but installing shelves is a great place to start. With the right shelving, your van will not only be more organized, but more professional-looking, enjoyable and safe.

AN INTRODUCTION TO VAN SHELVING

One of the primary reasons businesses choose vans over trucks is the ease of creating a custom, enclosed and mobile workstation to conveniently get work done on-site and keep employees and equipment protected from the elements.

Van interiors can be customized to meet the needs of many specific industries and professions, from plumbers to electricians and many more. Perhaps that’s why full-sized vans are one of the fastest-growing and most-lucrative vehicle types.

No matter what industry you’re in, you’ll likely require shelving and storage in your van interior, and there are a wide variety of options to consider. Adjustable metal shelving is a great option, and comes in a wide variety of sizes to meet your storage needs.

Open shelving is ideal for storing tools or materials that you need to access regularly and easily. For more protected storage, there are plenty of storage modules available that combine drawers, cabinets and shelving to keep everything you need secure and organized.

BENEFITS OF COMMERCIAL SHELVING FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Shelving may seem like a simple addition to your van, but it can make a world of difference for your business and your day-to-day tasks. Commercial van shelving is popular for many reasons, including the following benefits:

A well thought-out and organized workstation can improve your efficiency and productivity. By getting more done more quickly, you can thereby increase your revenue and profitability.
With all your tools and equipment in their designated spots, you’ll have more open space to work with.
An organized van looks more professional and reflects positively on your business and brand image. Each passerby is a potential customer, so you want your van to be neat and organized at all times.
Loose tools and equipment present risks and hazards. Storing everything properly and securely will improve safety while on the road and on the job.
Knowing exactly where everything is kept in your van will allow you to keep a more accurate inventory.
Having all your equipment and tools secured can reduce noise and damage while you drive.
Studies show that visible clutter can cause mental clutter. A clean and organized work space can lead to a more enjoyable and fulfilling work life.

With these great benefits in mind, it’s clear why most work vans view shelving as a must. Today, a growing number of small business owners seek customized van shelving. Custom van shelving helps many companies increase efficiency. By labeling essential tools and supplies such as electrical components, plumbing parts, keys, nails, cleaning products, or other loose materials.

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What are the benefits of using a Ladder Rack for your van

Posted on July 20, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

Using a ladder rack for your van can instantly transform it from a simple vehicle to a fully functional eco-friendly mobile workshop. If you are an avid worker, travelling to different jobs and enjoying flexible and smart solutions, than a ladder rack for your van is just the thing for you.

Instead of carrying your ladder around using old school ropes and trying to fix it in place with whatever material you find, you can invest in a ladder rack that guarantees stability of the ladder during transportation.

The most important advantage of a ladder rack is the fact that it can be universal and compatible with most ladder models out there. This means you do not have to worry about your vehicle not being appropriate for it because any vehicle can be turned into a mobile workshop. In addition, they are easy to assemble on your van as all they require is a flat surface.

One other important benefit of a ladder rack is its safety feature. They are easy to use and cause no damage to the operator, therefore anyone can use them. Adding to the advantages of using a ladder rack is the material it comes in.

The ladder can than be dropped to the ground and shifted up onto the rooftop of the van in a few minutes. This is an operation that can be repeated effortlessly throughout the day. Therefore, you, the operator, do not have to tire yourself out with this simple task.

Get more cargo space

Rather than cramming things into the bed of your work truck, ladder racks deliver extra cargo space instantly. Rather than place a large ladder in the bed of your truck, you can secure it on top of your van or truck and fit more in the truck. It’s a very cost-effective solution.

Work more efficiently

If you stop and think about it, you’ll quickly realize how much time it takes to load ladders in your truck. Our auto-retracting rack straps help get everything stored up top much faster than using bungee cords or straps. This makes your drive to the job site and contractor store much more efficient.

When your ladders and materials are stored properly, you are able to work more efficiently. Cleaning up the job site is simpler too. With your ladders and materials properly placed about the truck, you’ll have more space in your truck bed for tools and equipment.

Secure storage

Trucks are expensive and if your ladder isn’t properly stored, it could become damage your truck. Ryder Racks keep ladders and materials stationary, so you don’t need to worry about anything slipping or falling. Always buy the best ladder rack you can afford, as it will perform better and last longer than a budget version of this work essential.

cargo van, Van Ladder Racks, wheelchair van

Is Your Handicap Van Maintenance Up to Date?

Posted on July 17, 2021July 29, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

No matter where you are or what you are doing, when your vehicle breaks down it causes a big inconvenience. You have to figure out where and how to get it fixed and you may need to cancel plans or appointments while you find alternate transportation methods.

But for wheelchair users, their handicap van breaking down usually leads to a loss of independence, as alternate transportation may not be an option at all. And while vehicle breakdowns cannot always be altogether avoided, there is one thing that vehicle owners can do to help prevent them. Simply put it is routine maintenance.

Routine vehicle maintenance helps keep a vehicle in proper working order and helps to reduce the likelihood of any unexpected breakdowns caused by mechanical or technical components being in need of repair. So, how do you know if your van’s maintenance is up to date? In this post, we will cover that question and more. We will take a look at why maintenance is important for a wheelchair van, ways owners can help with the upkeep at home, how to know if the routine maintenance is up to date and why wheelchair van owners should schedule their next service appointment.

The Importance of Handicap Van Maintenance

Vehicle maintenance is one of the most important things any owner can do for their vehicle. But, it is even more important for wheelchair van owners. This is because converted vans have additional mechanical components beyond that of a standard vehicle from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM).

Conversion features added to vans like hand controls, ramps, lifts, tie down devices, transfer seats, among others require specific maintenance to remain in working order. By maintaining these features and the vehicle as a whole, wheelchair users are less likely to run into costly unexpected repairs.

Ways to Help Upkeep Your Wheelchair Van At Home

Routine maintenance by a service technician should be completed roughly twice per year. But outside of those service appointments, there are ways to help with the upkeep and maintenance of a wheelchair van at home.

Start by checking the interior and exterior lights (including headlights and tail lights), checking fluid levels (including but not limited to engine oil, windshield washer fluid, engine oil and transmission fluid), and checking tire tread depth and pressure. These should be checked on a daily or at least weekly basis if the vehicle is not being used every day.

Prior to using the van each time, check that the sliding door is free of debris, check the door alignment to ensure they open and close smoothly, lightly lubricate the kneeling chain, check the ramp to ensure it can be operated without sticking or jamming, check the wheelchair tie down tracks to ensure they are clear of debris, and check the hinges on the ramp (if it is a folding ramp). Folding ramps should be sprayed on the upper and lower hinges with teflon based lubricant and in-floor ramps should have their hinge sprayed with teflon based lubricant, as well (as needed).

Every time the vehicle is running, make sure to listen to ensure the engine sounds normal and there are no strange noises or rattling. Additionally make sure to check the electronic components like the navigation display, back up camera, etc. to ensure they are in proper working order.

Why Schedule a Routine Maintenance Service Appointment?

While at home measures can truly help the longevity of a vehicle’s maintenance, regular service appointments are the only sure thing that can help vehicle owners avoid unexpected costly repairs and keep their vehicle out on the open road. At a vehicle service appointment, the technicians will conduct any oil or fluid changes that need to be completed, they will check the battery and also rotate the tires and adjust the tire pressure.

They will also check for any OEM recalls that may require work to be completed on the vehicle. Some recalls by Dodge, Chrysler, Ford, GMC or Toyota can be completed during routine maintenance appointments, but other more time consuming fixes may require an additional appointment. The technician will go over these options should a recall arise during a service visit.

For a wheelchair van, the service appointment will also include conversion equipment maintenance like checking the sliding door wiring and alignment, lubricating and checking the hand controls, tightening and lubricating the 6-way trackless transfer seat, checking the tie down device and alarm are in proper working order, and much more based on each unique conversion van equipment and needs.

cargo van, Ideas & Tips

Why Do I Need Work Van Flooring?

Posted on July 17, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

Work van flooring protects your investment, provides a safe environment for your employees, and makes sure your work van is the ultimate work tool.

Work Van Flooring Is Important For a Professional Workspace

Many people consider shelving, workbenches, ladders, and conduit carriers to be the goal of upfitting, and an organized work van is important, but the flooring for vans should never be overlooked. In fact, work van flooring is the base where all upfits should start. The right flooring is certainly visually appealing, but the benefits go well beyond simple aesthetics.

This blog will take a look at why work van flooring is vital to protecting your investment and providing a safe work environment for your employees, while also exploring popular flooring materials and other design considerations that will make your work van the ultimate work tool.

CUSTOM WORK VAN FLOORING IS THE FOUNDATION OF YOUR WORK VEHICLE

Most factory-direct vehicles feature bare-metal flooring. This is mainly because manufacturers know that fleet operators and van owners have specific flooring needs. Flooring is an integral part of most upfits and here’s why:

Protect Your Investment – When you bring your van to the job site, whether it be for plumbing, HVAC, construction, landscaping, or dog washing, it is going to take a beating, and the flooring will most likely be the target of most of the abuse. Hammers get dropped, remainders of conduit get tossed on the floor, equipment can leak chemicals, and a sharp turn or sudden stop can scatter parts. Work vans even double as mobile workstations, which means they need to be treated with the same care and forethought as a stationary workspace. Flooring is a wise investment that absorbs this damage, so you never have to worry about accidents spoiling the floor or wear and tear taking its toll. Even small punctures in the floor can allow chemicals and moisture to get beneath the floor and cause major damage in the long run. By protecting your vehicle, you protect its resale value.

Provide a Safe Workspace – It’s no secret that safety is paramount, but one fact that is often overlooked is that everything you do to enhance safety is also an investment in efficiency and productivity. Work van flooring can prevent slips, especially in wet weather or at muddy or icy job sites. Losing your grip in a work van when surrounded by metal tools and caustic chemicals is a major risk. Rubberized and grip flooring provides traction, which allows staff to easily and safely load and unload large and bulky items with ease. Never take chances with the health and safety of employees; install sturdy, rubberized flooring to keep workers safe on the job.

Reduced Noise – Work vans are loud. Even with the best shelving and equipment storage possible, items will still rattle around in the back. Rubber work mats and flooring stop shifting cargo and help dampen noise from the cargo area, reducing distractions and further increasing safety.

Easy to Clean – Work vans get messy, and bare metal floors aren’t designed to be cleaned, especially if they have been beaten out of shape and worn down by rough use. Custom van flooring is molded to fit specific vehicles, can withstand the dirt, grime, and dust, and can be cleaned with ease.

Flooring Can Be the Difference Between an Old, Worn-Out Van, and One that Looks Brand New

Your work van is a representation of your business, and a van that can’t stand up to wear and tear or always has a dirty, disorganized appearance is a bad sign for customers. Not only is work van flooring easier to clean, but it also looks much nicer than the bare metal from the manufacturer. Custom van shelving ideas delivers a polished, professional appearance that makes your van look and feel well-maintained. A company that takes good care of its equipment and tools also takes care of its customers.

The Styles of Cargo Van Floor Protection

Rubberized Cargo Van Mats – Rubber mats are cut for specific vehicle models and wheelbases. They are a great option for upfitters that need the protection of rubberized flooring but the flexibility to provide great traction while still making it easy on knees. Rubber is shock absorbent, strong, and sturdy enough to maintain good looks for a long time. Rubber flooring for cargo vans is an important upgrade.

Composite Van Flooring Material – Composite materials combine the anti-slip safety of rubber with enhanced protection from dropped tools and general wear and tear. Layered with a rubberized top for traction, a mesh center for flexibility, and a TPO bottom for strength and durability, they come in panels of two or three for easy installation depending on the wheelbase of your vehicle.

At Advantage Outfitters, we excel at helping you get the most out of your work van build, from the floorboards up. We offer competitive online prices, quick shipping times, and personalized service that guides you through the entire upfitting process and helps you customize one van or a fleet of 100 or more. Call to speak to one of our experts or head to our how to buy page for more information about how we can help you get the ultimate work tool that will transform everything you do.

cargo van, Commercial Van, Van Ladder Racks

Utility Van Storage Organizer

Posted on July 13, 2021July 18, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

Public utility maintenance vans are always on the go, whether you work in electricity, water, natural gas, sewage, phone lines, etc. Quality utility van organization is vital to a safe and productive environment for you and your workers.

Maximize Storage Space With Utility Van Organizers

Shelving and storage systems allow you and your team to maximize cargo space to its fullest potential, increasing productivity and enhancing employee safety.

WORK SMARTER WITH SHELVING UNITS

Shelving units and packages help you maximize your vehicle investment. Ranger Design shelving systems are innovative, tough, and economical. They’re also backed with a lifetime installation warranty, which allows you to transfer them from one vehicle to another if your van breaks down.

PUT ESSENTIAL TOOLS IN DRAWER CABINETS

Van storage drawers provide safe storage and easy access to all of your most crucial utility tools without having to enter the van. Storage drawers are modular and customizable to fit a specific space in your van; they’re lightweight and can be individually locked for additional protection.

Side Door Drawer Systems offer lockable tool drawers and parts drawers, which are easily accessible outside the van. Compact Drawer Cabinets and other cabinet options are also available; however, they take up more space in your van’s cargo area. Compact Drawer Cabinets are typically used for hand tools and hardware parts.

KEEP SMALL PARTS HANDY WITH CASE STORAGE UNITS

Parts storage cabinets are handy and allow you to carry the necessary tools to the jobsite easily. Without having an efficient place to store pieces of equipment, the van can get disorganized and chaotic. Parts keeper units are an excellent solution for your trailer organization because they’re universal and can fit in any van.

How To Organize a Utility Van

In addition to shelving units and packages, there are other ways to organize your utility maintenance van.

IMPLEMENT HOOKS AND CABLE CADDIES

Van shelving ideas is one of technique to put your cables, cords, hard hats, etc., organized. They keep everything you need in one place, and you’ll always know where to locate them. Installing hooks and cable caddies outside of your shelving, closest to the rear doors, making them easily accessible and allowing you to retrieve them from outside the van.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF REAR DOOR SPACE

Often, many people forget to utilize rear door space, which can be crucial for an efficient utility maintenance van setup. There are many ways to utilize door space, but its always recommend to use back doors as additional storage. Rear door space is a great location to store essential tools and equipment, whether it’s a drill, shovel, manhole hook, pliers, etc.

INSTALL LADDER RACKS

Van ladder racks are an efficient way to transport ladders because they allow you to maximize your interior van space for other components. Ladder racks are secure for transit yet easily accessible when you need them. These ladders are suitable for high-roof vans.

Both ladder rack options enable single-person operations, which means you don’t need multiple workers to help bring a ladder down or secure it back up to the roof. They both also offer padlock security options for additional security when you’re away from the vehicle.

KEEP EQUIPMENT CHARGED WITH DC/AC POWER INVERTER SYSTEMS

Utility maintenance workers are always on the road, driving from one jobsite to another. DC/AC Power Inverter Systems enable your workers to use and charge required tools and equipment for the project from the van. This eliminates the issue of having to find a power source at the jobsite. Power inverters turn your van into a self-sufficient workstation that’s capable of handling any problem you may run into.

Its always suggest to use Low-Frequency (heavy duty) Power Inverter/Charger Systems for utility maintenance vans. Their surge ratings are up to 16,000W; there are also hardwire and breaker box options for multiple outlets. The unit’s built-in charger enables shore power options up to 30A.

cargo van, Ideas & Tips

Five Ways To Upfit Your Forklift Service Van

Posted on July 13, 2021July 18, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

A practical forklift service van setup is crucial for a productive mobile workspace. When your van is upfitted, it ensures efficiency, employee safety, and quality customer service. Here are five ways to start upfitting your forklift service van.

1. Put Shelving Units In

Putting shelving units in your forklift service van maximizes cargo space. Shelving systems offer modular flexibility, meaning they’re easily customizable depending on the size and model of your van. Even if something happens with your work vehicle and you have to replace it with a new one, the shelves are easily transferable and can last up to two or three vehicle lifespans.

Ranger Design shelving options work in the following vehicles:

Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana
Mercedes Metris
Mercedes Sprinter (Aluminum Package)
Mercedes Sprinter (Steel Package)
RAM ProMaster
RAM ProMaster City
Ford Transit

2. Insert Parts Storage Cabinets

Parts storage cabinets keep all your equipment handy and accessible inside and outside the van. These heavy duty parts storage cabinets are modular and expandable for any piece of equipment; they come as convenient carrying cases so your workers can customize their case based on the project and bring the best parts for the job.

Parts storage cabinets are an efficient and productive way to organize and store small components and universally fit in any van; they can be mounted under shelves, inset into shelving, or stack as stand-alone units.

3. Apply Van Flooring

Van flooring is a good starting point for any efficient van upfit. When you get your van from the manufacturer, they generally come with a sheet metal floor or thin vinyl mat; these surfaces are not comfortable to walk on and can be hazardous if your shoes are wet or oily.

When it comes to a sufficient machinery service van setup, Aluminum Diamond plate and Stabil grip are the most suggested van floor coverings. Aluminum Diamond plate is thick yet lightweight and durable; it has superior impact sustainability and is puncture resistant, so it retains its appearance for an extended period. On the other hand, Stabil grip flooring is anti-slip and maximizes worker safety and efficiency. It can also endure all temperatures without buckling.

4. Install Liftgates or Ramps

Liftgates and cargo van ramps make work easier and minimizes physical strain on your employees. When you transport materials to and from the jobsite, assistance is often needed to move bulky items in and out of the service van. Liftgates and ramps reduce the effort needed for these tasks and prevent potentially costly and lasting injuries.

If you frequently move lightweight loads and wheeled equipment in and out of the van, a foldable ramp is your best solution. For heavier items such as pallets and machinery, a liftgate is the perfect tool for the job.

5. Introduce Interior Lighting

Introducing interior lighting in your van’s cargo space allows you to see what you’re doing after the sun goes down or before it comes up. It saves you and your workers’ frustration from hunting for a flashlight when you need to open the back doors; it saves time and allows you to do your job as efficiently as possible. In addition, interior lighting reduces the risk of injury because your workers are able to see where they’re walking to avoid tripping hazards.

Surface-Mount Interior Lighting and Recessed-Mount Interior Lighting are the recommended interior lighting options for commercial vans. These lighting fixtures do not eliminate any cargo headroom, and they have a 50,000 hour lifespan.

Take Advantage of Your Forklift Mechanic Van Setup

A proper forklift mechanic van setup allows you and your workers to complete projects efficiently and safely. At Advantage Outfitters, we know your time is valuable, which is why we’re here to help you upfit your on-the-go workspace.

KNOW YOUR VEHICLE

Not all vans are built the same, so it’s vital to understand your vehicle’s model along with its strengths. Before upfitting, it’s essential to consider the van’s size as well as its capabilities, such as weight capacity and balance. Implementing heavy equipment in the cargo may uneven the vehicle, which could cause significant maintenance damage down the road.

Commercial van upfits intend to satisfy the needs of your team. When upfitting your vehicle, listen to your employees to get their input on what they believe would be the most beneficial to implement in the van. All and all, your service crew will be utilizing the van most, so it’s important to keep their productivity and safety in mind.

cargo van, Van Ladder Racks

6 PRO TIPS TO HELP YOU PICK THE RIGHT LADDER RACK FOR YOUR WORK TRUCK

Posted on July 13, 2021July 29, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

Here is everything you need to know about buying the right ladder rack for the van. Every business is unique, and the kind of customization or up-fitting you will require on your work van will also differ from case to case.

If you are overwhelmed by the plethora of options that are available in the market, we are here to make your ladder rack selection process a tad easier. Let us look at some tips that will come in handy and dispel any confusion about which ladder rack you should choose.

Understand the Different Types of Truck Ladder Rack

Drop-down racks, base racks, side-access rotation racks, lock-down racks, and aluminum cargo carriers are among the most popular types of ladder racks.

1. Utility Racks

A good-old utility rack is a versatile option that allows you the flexibility to stow and transport a wide variety of cargo and equipment. The good thing is that the rack is compact and fits most standard high-roof vans (full-size ones) like the Ford Sprinter, Nissan NV Cargo, Nissan NV200, Transit Connect, etc. The only downside to a utility rack is that it could be a little difficult to access.

2. Lock-Down Ladder Racks

The lock-down ladder rack fits perfectly on GM, Ford, Transit Connect, Nissan NV200, RAM CV, and other full-size vans. Like utility racks, theyare easy to use and quite adaptable for a range of items. However, they may not be able to accommodate too many things and can also be hard to access.

3. Drop-Down Ladder Racks

These happen to be our favorite, and for good reason. The easy-to-use handle of a drop-down ladder rack makes it simple for your ladder to pivot to the side of your vehicle. Safe, reliable, and efficient, the drop-down ladder rack also fits most full-size vans and pick-up trucks.

The only thing that might make you think twice about this type of ladder rack is its price. They can be costlier than the options mentioned above.

Pro Tips to Choose the Right Ladder Rack for Your Needs

1. Understand your requirement

What is good for someone else might not be the right accessory for you. Make sure you understand your unique business and transportation needs before you choose a specific rack. Start by considering the average and the maximum number of ladders you will need to carry. Also, consider the size of your ladders.

If you intend to accommodate other heavy equipment on the rack, ensure that the rack system you choose provides sufficient space for them to fit properly. While gauging your needs, it is important to look at what you need at the moment and also keep an eye on the future. You might feel like your requirements are limited right now, but what about when your business expands?

2. Consider your work truck type

Given the massive number of models in the market, most equipment manufacturers have started offering vehicle accessories and up-fitting options that are designed for specific work vans and trucks. Whether you have a Sprinter or a Transit, a Dodge van, or one from the Nissan NV Series, it is important to check whether the ladder rack system you chooseis compatible with your work truck.

3. Look at the safety features

While shopping around for ladder rack systems, considering the safety features is essential. After all, one of the key reasons why you need a ladder rack is because you want to keep your ladders, driver, vehicle, and other people safe. Modern-day ladder rack designs are enhanced with a variety of safety and security features – compare them and check which one suits your needs the best. Any ladder rack that you buy should have passed the necessary safety tests. An easy-to-use system that has high-quality fasteners or clasps are a must.

4. Material of construction

Heat, wind, moisture, water, and snow can have a detrimental impact on certain materials. Before you put down your money, make sure that the material used for constructing your ladder rack is extremely robust and resistant to harsh weather.

You will find that most manufacturers offer aluminum ladder racks today because aluminum is not only corrosion-resistant, it is immensely durable, and light in weight as well. You might also come across steel options, but steel ladder racks are generally heavier than their aluminum counterparts.

5. Compare models and designs

The market is replete with dynamic and good-looking ladder rack systems. Every product will have its own set of pros and cons ensure that you understand them before buying one.

6. Talk to an expert

The variety of styles, features, and construction material might make it hard for you to select the right ladder rack for your work truck. It is best to consult an expert in the industry and understand which ladder rack system is ideal for you. You can go to a truck accessory manufacturer, a retailer, or simply speak to one of our qualified experts at American Van.

cargo van, Refrigerated Van

Rent a Refrigerated Cargo Van

Posted on July 2, 2021July 2, 2021 by commercialvansolutions

Rent a refrigerated van — Rent a Refrigerated cargo van

Refrigerated van provide a great service to anyone that may need to transport food and other items that need to remain cold.

If a business or person needs a refrigerated van for a one-time use or only now and then, renting a truck is a lot more logical than purchasing a van that will never be used again or only used every now and then.

When renting a refrigerated van, there are various kinds of trucks that can be rented, different option to choose from when renting a van, various prices per truck, and important information that the business or person renting the van need to know prior to renting a refrigerated van.

A cargo van is a versatile vehicle that is used for transporting basically anything. However, if a business or person needs to transport items that need to remain cold, then renting a refrigerated cargo van is a great idea.

They are very similar to regular cargo van except that they have a refrigeration unit inside them that keeps the cargo area cold.

Depending on what type of cooling unit the truck has, they can keep items cold for quite a few days. They can transport many types of items as well.

Types of cooling systems in cargo vans and trucks

There are three main types of cooling systems that are installed in cargo vans and trucks. The first one is the most basic and is simply a ventilation system that moves air through the cargo area.

It is not really a refrigerated vehicle, but is perfect for transporting some items that do not require very cold air.

The next type of van uses carbon dioxide and ice to keep the truck cool. This type of vehicle is just right for short trips with items that do not require items to be at a set temperature during transport. The most advanced cooling system uses a diesel generator to power a complete mechanical refrigeration unit.

It is not cheap to rent this vehicle, but they are ideal for long distance transports and/or for transporting items that have to be at a set temperature the whole time that they are in the truck.

Along with not having to purchase a refrigerated that may or not be used on a regular basis, renting a refrigerated truck has other benefits. Renting a cargo van means that the business or person that rents them does not have to pay for vehicle maintenance and the fuel. They can also be rented for a day, a week, or however long the vehicles are needed. For these reasons, renting a refrigerated truck definitely makes transporting cooler.

A refrigerated cargo can transport anything that requires refrigeration, as long as it fits in the space available in the truck.

They can transport a lot of fresh food items, frozen products, flowers, medical specimens, hazardous and/or volatile materials, and anything else that needs to remain while it is being transported from one place to another.