Isothermal transport

Distributors of fruits and vegetables, flower producers, as well as representatives of the meat industry and the pharmaceutical sector require a service provider capable of delivering professional isothermal transport. Delivering such goods at the right, strictly controlled temperature ensures that all required properties and characteristics of these products are preserved.

Every thermally insulated transport vehicle is subject to the so-called ATP agreement – the international treaty on the transport of perishable foodstuffs and the means of transport used for such deliveries.

According to ATP, the three main types of specialized vehicles for isothermal deliveries are:

♦ Refrigerated trucks,
♦ Ice-cooled vehicles,
♦ Isothermal trucks.

Isothermal Semi-Trailer – Key Features

An isothermal semi-trailer is a vehicle whose interior (walls, doors, and ceiling) is thermally insulated. The key factor in these vehicles is their insulation performance, determined mainly by the heat transfer coefficient (K). The lower the K value, the better the insulation.

Isothermal bodies are also classified by the materials used in their construction, most commonly:

♦ ABS – forms adapted to all vehicle models,
♦ Layered polyester boards,
♦ Laminates.

Two main categories of isothermal vehicles are distinguished:

♦ IR – isothermals with additional thermal reinforcement,
♦ IN – isothermals with standard insulation.

Refrigerated vs. Isothermal – Find the Right Freight Forwarder

Refrigerated vehicles differ from typical isothermal vehicles in that, in addition to thermal insulation, they are equipped with refrigeration units. There are six categories of refrigerated trucks, each with a different temperature range for deliveries. The cooling unit used plays a decisive role, as does the thermochemical insert in the vehicle’s equipment. This system must effectively protect the cargo from outside temperature, odors, and humidity. Only the highest quality insulation materials ensure durability and that the products maintain their properties throughout the journey.

At iCaro Logistics, we use top-class ATP-compliant isothermal and refrigerated vehicles, guaranteeing safety and the highest quality in temperature-controlled transport.

Isothermal Vans and Trucks

Isothermal vans and isothermal trucks are specialized transport vehicles whose insulated body limits heat exchange between the interior and the environment. This ensures a stable transport temperature, typically between 0°C and +16°C. High-quality insulation, often aluminum-based, minimizes external factors and protects temperature-sensitive loads.

The main difference between an isothermal van and an isothermal truck lies in payload capacity and application. Vans are ideal for smaller loads over shorter distances, commonly used in local distribution (e.g., fresh food deliveries to shops or restaurants). Trucks, with larger cargo space and a stronger build, are suitable for bulk transport over longer distances, including wholesale and international logistics.

Standard isothermal bodies provide safe transport for goods requiring temperatures above 0°C. For loads needing even lower temperatures, vehicles with an extra insulation layer up to 40 mm thick are used, increasing thermal efficiency.

3.5t Isothermal Vehicle

In freight forwarding, isothermal vehicles are also known as box semi-trailers. Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of up to 3.5 tonnes are popular as they do not require a C-category driving license, reducing costs and simplifying transport organization. Their mobility makes them perfect for urban and regional deliveries where maneuverability and access to restricted spaces are essential.

They are particularly useful for transporting temperature-sensitive goods such as delicate high-value items or glass products requiring stable transport conditions.

Isothermal Containers

Isothermal containers are used for the transport and storage of goods requiring a stable temperature. Thanks to their special insulation, they limit heat exchange with the surroundings, ensuring safe delivery of sensitive goods like food, medicines, or delicate materials. Unlike vans or trucks, these containers can be easily transferred between different transport modes, making them ideal for intermodal logistics and for storage in locations without permanent cooling systems.

Choose professionalism – contact an iCaro consultant today. Get a free quote, optimize costs, and receive expert support from top freight forwarders.