Purchasing an insulated truck is a major investment, and a positive attitude towards maintenance can help you to protect your asset in the long term.
Follow these 5 maintenance and safety tips to protect yourself and your clients, and avoid unnecessary expenses:
Follow the Recommended Inspection Schedule
When you purchase a new insulated truck, the dealership will outline a schedule for maintenance and servicing that should be adhered to. This schedule will be based on their experience with the products they sell and the components they use. If you regularly drive in harsh conditions or your insulated truck is consistently exposed to dust and excess water, you may want to book a service earlier than the prescribed date.
Perform a Visual Check Before You Set Off
Whether your insulated truck is new or used, it pays to do a quick check of all major components before you transport refrigerated goods. Inspect the shell of your truck body for cracks or damage that could hinder insulation, ensure temperature settings are as they should be and check that locks and seals are intact and functioning.
You should check the mechanical aspects of your insulated truck as well – ensure oil, coolant and fluid levels are topped up, and make sure your tyres are fully inflated. These simple measures can prevent unnecessary breakdowns, in turn protecting your refrigerated goods.
Pay Close Attention to Truck Performance
Insulated truck users should be listening closely during prolonged use of their vehicles, as telltale signs often present before a breakdown. If there is any rattling, unusual noises or odours during operation, stop your truck immediately and attempt to diagnose the problem. Users should also check the performance of their refrigeration unit regularly – if your unit takes longer than normal to reach desired temperatures, consult a technician as soon as possible.
Pre-Cool Your Insulated Truck
Before loading your truck with perishable goods, ensure you have pre-cooled the truck body to the required temperature first. Even a short period of exposure to elevated temperatures can damage your cargo, so start up the refrigeration unit before you begin loading. Modern refrigerated units will achieve the desired temperature very quickly.
Conduct Regular Cleaning
Cleaning the cargo area of your insulated truck is especially important if you transport a wide range of perishable goods. There is a risk of contamination and bacteria spreading if you do not clean the unit regularly after use. This is especially true if you use your refrigerated truck for meat transportation. Industrial detergent and a high-pressure cleaner is necessary for thorough cleaning, but ensure you switch off your refrigeration unit and avoid all electrical components before you start.
Advanced and Reliable Insulated Trucks from Scully RSV
Here at Scully RSV, we only work with the highest quality materials and tradespeople. Our services are backed by a 12-24 month workmanship guarantee, so you can be sure your RSV is manufactured to the best possible standard.
For the most extensive range of refrigerated transport and truck hire Brisbane can offer you, get in contact with Scully RSV today. You can take a closer look at our fleet by visiting our Archerfield facility from Monday to Friday.
To reach our experienced team, give us a call on 1800 728 559 or use our enquiry form for more information.
Want to find out more about refrigerated vehicles? Check out our previous posts:
3 Tips for Successfully Transporting Frozen Food
Australian Cold Chain Guidelines – 3 Essential Rules
Cold Chain Transportation: Managing and Protecting Perishables
Our Truck Repair and Maintainance Services
