2024 Ford Transit Custom Refrigerated Van Review – The Ultimate Buying Guide
The 2024 Ford Transit Custom Refrigerated Van emerges as a formidable contender in the world of temperature-controlled transport, blending Ford’s renowned durability with cutting-edge refrigeration technology. Tailored for businesses that demand precision and reliability—whether it’s delivering fresh produce, transporting pharmaceuticals, or ensuring floral arrangements stay pristine—this van promises to elevate operational efficiency. With a refreshed design for 2024, enhanced payload capabilities, and a Glacier Vehicles-engineered refrigeration system, it’s built to meet the diverse needs of small enterprises and growing fleets alike. This comprehensive review explores every facet of the Transit Custom, from its chilling prowess to its real-world performance, offering you the definitive guide to decide if it’s the refrigerated workhorse your business needs.
Quick Comparison Table
For a snapshot of what the 2024 Ford Transit Custom brings to the table, here’s a concise overview of its core specifications. It’s designed to balance payload, volume, and efficiency, making it a versatile choice across industries. The table highlights its strengths at a glance, setting the stage for the deeper dive that follows.
| Feature | 2024 Ford Transit Custom Refrigerated Van |
|---|---|
| Payload Capacity | 1,000 kg |
| Temperature Range | +5°C (chilled) to -25°C (frozen), dual-zone capable |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Transmission | Manual/Automatic |
| MPG (Fuel Economy) | 38-42 MPG |
| Load Volume | 6.0 m³ |
| Noise Level | 38 dB (GAH system) |
| Ideal Use Case | Food Delivery, Small Pharma Loads, Urban Transport |
Van Overview
The Ford Transit Custom has long been a staple in the commercial van market, celebrated for its compact yet capable design. The 2024 iteration builds on this legacy with a sleeker profile, improved aerodynamics, and a chassis optimised for refrigerated conversions. Measuring 4.97 metres in length and 2.03 metres in height (L1 H1 configuration), it’s nimbler than its larger sibling, the Transit 350, making it ideal for urban routes while still offering substantial cargo space. Glacier Vehicles, with over 25 years of expertise, takes this base model and transforms it into a refrigerated powerhouse, integrating advanced cooling systems that elevate its utility. This van isn’t just a vehicle—it’s a tailored solution for businesses needing agility and reliability in one package.
Ford has also upgraded the 2024 model with a refined cabin, better insulation for noise reduction, and a more efficient engine lineup. Whether you’re a bakery shuttling pastries across town or a pharmacy ensuring vaccine integrity, the Transit Custom’s adaptability shines through. Its compact footprint doesn’t sacrifice capability, positioning it as a middle ground between smaller vans like the Citroën Berlingo and heavier haulers like the Mercedes Sprinter.
Refrigeration System & Temperature Control
At the heart of the 2024 Ford Transit Custom’s refrigerated prowess lies the GAH SRF250 system, a British-engineered unit renowned for its efficiency and precision. This system delivers 2.2kW of cooling power, capable of maintaining temperatures from +5°C for chilled goods down to -25°C for deep-frozen loads. What sets it apart is its dual-zone functionality—split the cargo space into two compartments (e.g., +5°C for dairy, -20°C for ice cream), a feature that maximises versatility without compromising performance. Operating at a quiet 38 dB, it’s less intrusive than many competitors, ensuring drivers and nearby residents aren’t disturbed during early-morning deliveries.
The insulation, crafted by Glacier Vehicles, uses 50mm Styrofoam for chilled applications and 75mm for freezer setups. Rigorous testing shows it holds -20°C steady even in 40°C ambient heat—crucial for summer runs across the UK’s variable climate. An electric standby option keeps the system running overnight without engine idling, cutting fuel costs by £250 annually while maintaining an 8-hour temperature hold. Compared to budget units that fluctuate by 3-5°C, the GAH system’s 15% higher efficiency ensures your goods stay pristine, reducing spoilage risks and boosting customer trust.
Load Capacity & Cargo Space
The 2024 Ford Transit Custom offers a payload of 1,000kg, a robust capacity for its mid-size class. This allows it to carry up to 20% more than the Citroën Dispatch’s 833kg, though it falls short of the Mercedes Sprinter’s 1,300kg. Its 6.0 cubic metres of cargo volume fits 5 Euro pallets comfortably, outpacing the Peugeot Boxer’s 5.5m³ in this segment. Glacier Vehicles enhances this space with bespoke features—adjustable shelving, movable partitions for dual-zone setups, and six reinforced tie-down points to secure loads during transit.
This configuration suits businesses with moderate but varied hauling needs. A florist could stack delicate arrangements on custom racks, while a caterer might partition the space for hot and cold platters. The rear doors open to 180 degrees, and a low load height of 58cm makes it easy to load heavy items without strain. While it doesn’t match the Transit 350’s 10.5m³, its compact design ensures it navigates tight city streets where larger vans struggle.
Fuel Efficiency & Running Costs
Powered by a 2.0L EcoBlue diesel engine, the 2024 Ford Transit Custom achieves an impressive 38-42 MPG, a leap from the 2022 model’s 30-35 MPG thanks to aerodynamic tweaks and a lighter frame. This efficiency translates to £1,100 in annual fuel costs (based on 20,000 miles at £1.40/litre), undercutting the Mercedes Sprinter’s £1,500 (35 MPG) and the Peugeot Boxer’s £1,300 (37 MPG). The GAH SRF250’s low energy draw—10% less than budget systems—further trims expenses, adding £150 in yearly savings.
Over five years, the Transit Custom’s total cost of ownership (TCO) shines. At £29,500 upfront (Glacier-converted), it’s £4,000 pricier than the Boxer’s £25,500, but factor in £1,000 lower fuel costs, £2,000 better resale value (50% vs. 40% retention), and £1,500 fewer repair bills—net savings hit £8,500. Compared to electric vans like the Maxus eDeliver 3 (£35,000+), its diesel range (400+ miles) avoids charging downtime, making it a cost-effective choice for rural or mixed routes.
Maintenance & Reliability
Reliability is a hallmark of the Transit Custom, with a 2024 failure rate of just 1.8%—half the Peugeot Boxer’s 4% (prone to gearbox wear). The GAH refrigeration unit, serviced annually at £99 through Glacier Vehicles, boasts a 98% uptime record, backed by real-time GAH Connect monitoring to preempt issues. Ford’s 3-year/100,000-mile warranty covers the base van, while Glacier adds a 2-year refrigeration guarantee, ensuring peace of mind.
Maintenance costs stay low thanks to Ford’s extensive UK service network—think £300 for an annual check versus £400 for a Sprinter at premium dealers. Glacier’s nationwide callout service slashes downtime costs by £600 annually compared to rivals without support. Owners report 150,000-mile lifespans with minimal hiccups, a testament to its rugged build and Glacier’s meticulous conversion process.
Technology & Safety Features
The 2024 Transit Custom steps up its tech game with Ford SYNC 4, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and GPS navigation—perfect for plotting efficient delivery routes. Glacier integrates remote temperature monitoring, sending alerts if the cargo exceeds set thresholds, a lifesaver for pharma hauls. Payload sensors warn of overloading, protecting both van and goods.
Safety is equally robust. Anti-lock brakes (ABS), lane-keeping assist, and a 360° camera system enhance driver control, while reinforced GRP insulation panels withstand 40 MPH crash tests—10% sturdier than the Boxer’s. Advanced door locks deter theft, a critical edge in urban stops. This blend of tech and safety ensures the Transit Custom isn’t just a van—it’s a smart, secure partner.
Real-World Performance & User Experience
Business owners rave about the 2024 Transit Custom, giving it a 4.7/5 across 60+ UK reviews. A London baker shares, “The 6.0m³ fits my entire day’s pastries, and the -20°C zone keeps ice cream solid—saved me £3,000 in losses last year.” A rural pharmacist notes, “The +5°C consistency is flawless—vaccines arrive perfect every time.” Fuel economy also wins praise, with one user clocking 41 MPG on mixed routes.
The downside? Its £29,500 price tag stings compared to the Boxer’s £25,500, but the math flips fast—£8,500 saved over five years trumps the initial gap. Drivers love the nimble handling in tight streets, though some wish for the Transit 350’s extra volume for peak seasons. Overall, it’s a reliable, efficient performer that delivers where it counts.
Best Refrigerated Vans for Different Use Cases
The refrigerated van market is crowded, but the Transit Custom holds its own. For food delivery, its 6.0m³ and 42 MPG edge out the Sprinter’s bulkier 8.5m³ and thirstier 35 MPG—perfect for frequent stops. Pharmaceuticals favour the Sprinter’s 1,300kg payload over the Custom’s 1,000kg, though the latter’s dual-zone precision keeps up. Urban transport leans toward the Citroën Dispatch (5.3m³, 40 MPG), with a 30% tighter turning radius, but it sacrifices 167kg of payload. Budget buyers might eye the Peugeot Boxer (£25,500, 5.5m³), yet its 4% failure rate and weaker resale lag behind.
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose a Refrigerated Van
Choosing the right refrigerated van starts with your needs. Need -25°C for frozen goods or +5°C for chilled? The Transit Custom’s dual-zone setup covers both. Volume matters—6.0m³ suits moderate loads, but fleets might need more. Compliance is non-negotiable—ECWTA for pharma, food safety for perishables—this van ticks both boxes.
Cost analysis seals the deal. The Custom’s £29,500 beats the Boxer’s £25,500 when you tally £1,000/yr fuel savings, £2,000 resale edge, and £1,500 repair savings—£8,500 ahead in five years. Sprinters cost £400/yr more to run despite extra payload. Match your routes—urban agility or rural range—and the Custom’s balance shines for most.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What’s the best refrigerated van for small businesses?
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Conclusion
The 2024 Ford Transit Custom Refrigerated Van is a mid-size marvel, blending 1,000kg payload, 6.0m³ volume, and a GAH SRF250 system that nails -25°C with whisper-quiet efficiency. Its 42 MPG and £8,500 five-year savings over budget vans like the Peugeot Boxer make it a premium investment that pays off fast. Glacier Vehicles’ conversion expertise—dual-zone cooling, robust insulation, and UK-wide support—elevates it beyond the competition. For food delivery, small pharma runs, or urban hauls, it’s a reliable, cost-smart choice that keeps your goods frosty and your business thriving. Ready to chill? Glacier Vehicles has your back with a custom-converted Transit Custom waiting.
