What Is a Conversion Van?
A conversion van is a full-sized cargo van that is sent to third-party companies to be equipped and outfitted with features according to the specifications of the owner. Most conversion vans have their rear seating rearranged or removed. The conversions include bespoke fitting services to make the load area of the vehicle suitable for either family or commercial purposes.
Types of Conversion Vans
The difference in conversion vans is the type of top they have. There are low tops and high tops.
Low tops: A low top van still retains the factory-fitted roof. With the original roof, the van is more aerodynamic and sleek but has less interior space. For commercial purposes such as freezer van conversions, storage space is crucial and low top vans are not ideal.
High tops: The major feature of high top vans is that they have a portion of the original factory top cut out and a fibreglass high top or high-raised roof added. Because of structural purposes, the roof is not totally removed. A section of the original roof is often left at the front and back of the van. Most conversion vans especially ones used for freezer and fridge conversions are high top vehicles.
The advantages of a high top conversion van include:
- A high-top van has more storage space and is ideal for business.
- It allows occupants to stand in the van without bending over.
- There is free movement and ample legroom in the van.
What Are Conversion Vans Used For?
Conversion vans can be
- Disability vans
- Shuttle vans
- Office vans
- Family vans
- Motorhomes
- Commercial Vans
Fridge/freezer conversions can be classified as a commercial van. They have custom-built interiors fitted with extra shelving or racking, slide drawers, slip-resistant floors and other features to improve the efficiency of the space.
Other work done to make the refrigerated vans more user-friendly include the installation of LED lighting, air conditioning, onboard power systems, Bluetooth, rear parking sensors, alarm, Sat Nav, cruise control, and other features.
Fridge/Freezer Conversion Vans
Fridge or freezer van conversion involves converting a new or used van into chillers, freezers, or dual temperature vans. This is done by insulating the van and installing a refrigeration system. Through innovative and proficient engineering, the vans are transformed from normal vans to thermally-efficient vans.
They can attain and maintain low temperatures for a long period. They can also be customised to operate in any conditions. New refrigerated vans are used in food transportation and the distribution of pharmaceutical products.
At Glacier Vehicles, we excel in converting normal vans into used refrigerated vehicles and we ensure they are engineered to deliver optimal and stable cooling for a long period. We source for both old and new vans and work with all major manufacturers to give you precise temperature controlled vehicles that are efficient.
Some features of our well-designed and constructed refrigerated conversion vans are:
- They are well constructed to withstand the harsh environment of a mobile lifestyle.
- They have almost double the insulation of regular fridges and because of this, they can maintain their temperature for long distances.
- They last longer than most other similar vehicles.
- They can hold multiple temperatures in one van, making it possible to transport different temperature-sensitive cargoes with varying temperature requirements at the same time.
- They are stable as they are designed to withstand the twists and turns of the moving vehicle.
- They come with a warranty for both the vehicle and the refrigeration system.
- They are cost-effective and fit your budget as we offer conversions for both new and used vehicles.
What to Look for in a Conversion Van
Even though some vans are known to be sturdier than others, it should not be the sole reason for picking out a conversion van. Some vans while robust and hard-wearing, offer 50% less payload than others in the same weight range. To get an all-round van that suits your business needs, expert opinion should be sought from professionals such as Glacier Vehicles.
A few things to keep in mind before getting a fridge/freezer conversion van are:
- New or pre-owned van
- The manufacturer, make, or model you prefer
- The purpose of the van
- Your unique specification or dimensions
- Payload
- Whether you want dual-zone or single temperature
- Warranty
- Your budget
Vans Used for Conversions
Not all vehicles can be used in van conversions especially if a refrigerated system will be installed in the van. Conversion vans are originally bare windowless full-size cargo vans. Van conversions can be done to both new and pre-owned vehicles. For used vehicles, they have to undergo certain tests, services, and checks to ensure they are roadworthy.
Vans mostly used in fridge/freezer conversions include:
- Toyota
- Mercedes Sprinter
- Volkswagen Crafter
- Ford Transit
- Renault Master
- Vauxhall Movano
- Nissan NV400
- Citroen Relay
- Fiat Ducato
- Peugeot Boxer
- Iveco Daily
Price of Conversion Vans
The prices of conversion vehicles differ. At Glacier Vehicles, we source for conversion vans of different makes, models, and sizes so you do not have to go through the stress of finding your preferred choice.
We also offer payment options and financing solutions that fit your budget. This means you do not have to pay for your new freezer van at once. The cost of your van will be spread over some months or years while you take full ownership of your van immediately.
If you want to buy a used refrigerated van, a used freezer van, a new refrigerated van or a new freezer van call, Glacier Vehicles on 0208 668 7579.
