Refrigerated trailers offer a flexible and reliable way to keep goods at the right temperature, wherever and whenever you need them. From outdoor events to retail rushes, they’re essential in many industries where freshness and safety matter. But who needs a refrigerated trailer?
What Is a Refrigerated Trailer?
A refrigerated trailer is a mobile cold storage unit, usually powered by electricity or a generator, designed to keep products chilled or frozen. These trailers range in size and can be stationed almost anywhere – behind a building, on a field, or at the back of a kitchen. They’re often used on a short-term basis, but long-term hire or purchase is also common.
Most models come with adjustable temperature controls, allowing you to store anything from frozen meat and dairy to flowers or medication. Whether you need additional storage for a big order, are dealing with a fridge breakdown, or just need something for a one-off event, a refrigerated trailer is a practical solution that can save both stock and stress.
Caterers and Food Vendors
In catering, there's no room for compromise when it comes to food safety. Proper temperature control is critical, especially when serving the public. Refrigerated trailers provide on-site cold storage, keeping ingredients and prepared dishes fresh right up to the moment they’re served.
Mobile catering teams working weddings, festivals, or private functions often operate in rural or makeshift locations. These areas rarely offer built-in facilities, so having your own refrigerated trailer ensures you’re not relying on cool boxes or last-minute ice runs.
It also saves time during service – staff can access everything they need quickly, keeping food quality and hygiene standards high. For any business in the food industry, a trailer can be the difference between a smooth service and a logistical nightmare.
Event Organisers and Outdoor Venues
Whether you’re running a music festival, food fair, sporting day, or seasonal market, cold storage is essential. From keeping drinks icy to storing meat, dairy, or fresh produce, refrigerated trailers allow event organisers to maintain control and quality.
Because they’re mobile, these units can be dropped on-site in the days leading up to an event and picked up afterwards. Many organisers hire multiple trailers depending on the size and nature of the gathering – for example, one for bar stock, another for catering, and a third for first aid or medical supplies that must be kept at a stable temperature.
When time is tight and pressure is high, knowing your perishables are safely stored allows you to focus on delivering a great experience to your attendees.
Shops and Supermarkets During Peak Times
Retailers often need extra storage during busy seasons such as Christmas, Easter, or summer holidays. Whether it’s fresh turkeys or chilled picnic food, extra stock means extra space – and that’s where refrigerated trailers step in.
Supermarkets, farm shops, and even local corner shops can benefit from hiring trailers for short bursts of high demand. They help businesses keep shelves stocked, reduce waste, and avoid turning away customers.
In some cases, trailers are also used during store renovations or freezer failures – allowing the business to keep trading without losing valuable products.
Having a mobile cold unit on hand during peak times can provide a much-needed buffer and help maintain a smooth operation under pressure.
Should You Hire or Buy?
The decision to hire or buy depends on your long-term needs and budget. Hiring is a great option if you only need the trailer occasionally – for a single event, during seasonal demand, or as an emergency backup. It’s cost-effective, maintenance-free, and gives you access to the latest models without commitment.
Buying, on the other hand, makes more sense for businesses with regular cold storage needs. If you're transporting goods weekly, storing overflow frequently, or simply want a backup you can rely on, owning a refrigerated trailer offers full control and convenience. Although it comes with upfront costs and responsibilities like servicing and storage, it can save money and time in the long run.
For many, a combination of both works well – renting during busy periods while owning a trailer for everyday use.
If you're looking for reliable refrigerated trailer rental or need temporary cold storage for an event or your business, our team is here to help. Get in touch today to discuss trailer hire in Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby.
