The Cost of Converting a Van to Refrigerated

As businesses in food supply, pharmaceuticals and other sectors grow, the need for temperature-controlled transport is also increasing to ensure efficient delivery of perishable goods. Companies typically have two options: purchasing a new or used refrigerated vehicle, or choosing to convert a van to a refrigerated vehicle using a specialist provider.

In this article, we will break down the main costs, key factors and important considerations involved in fridge van conversions to ensure you have all the information necessary to ensure you are making the right investment for your business.

Cost Breakdown: What You're Paying For

A professional van conversion involves several key stages, each of which contributes to the overall cost:

• Insulation: This is the foundation of all fridge van conversions. High-quality insulation ensures the van can maintain its temperature range, whether it is for chilled deliveries or frozen goods. The level of insulation required differs; a simple chiller conversion demands less material than a full freezer build.
  At Celsius, our insulation is provided through lightweight panels made entirely from recycled plastic bottles. These are fully recyclable at the end of their life. we avoid wood, fibreglass, GRP sheet and metals to create environmentally responsible fridge van conversions.
• Refrigeration Unit: The refrigeration system is the most complex and variable cost. Prices depend on the size of the vehicle and whether you require chilling or deep freezing. Larger vans require bigger, more powerful systems, and freezer builds involve higher-spec units than chiller setups.
• Fittings and Finishes: The final touches ensure the van is practical for day-to-day use. Fittings can include non-slip flooring, hygienic wall finishes, LED lighting, strip curtains or shelving. These all help with usability and help to maintain temperature when loading and unloading products.

Professional vs. DIY: The Risks and Rewards

• Professional Conversion: Using a specialist conversion company such as Celsius ensures that projects are carried out to industry standards, and are guaranteed for quality, durability and compliance. Our professional team designs and engineers all conversions to meet exact requirements, optimising thermal efficiency and providing aftercare support. While the upfront cost may be higher, the risk of breakdowns, failed inspections or lost stock is reduced, making it a safer long-term investment.
• DIY Conversion: Some may consider attempting to convert a van to refrigerated themselves; however, this option is rarely suitable for commercial use. DIY builds often lack proper insulation, which can lead to fluctuating temperatures, risks of bacterial growth and loss of products and, in turn, revenue. The installation of refrigeration units without expertise is complex and can result in voided warranties, liability issues or loss of contracts. For any business where compliance and safety are paramount, DIY fridge van conversions are not advisable.

How Much Does It Really Cost to Convert a Van to Refrigerated?

The overall price varies depending on the van, the spec and the intended use.

Factors Influencing Cost:

• Van Size: Smaller vans, such as the Ford Transit Connect, cost significantly less to convert than larger models such as the Mercedes Sprinter.
• Temperature Range: A chiller build is more affordable, while a freezer conversion requires heavier insulation and a more powerful refrigeration unit. This directly increases the freezer van conversion cost.
• Additional Features: At Celsius, we offer additional optional features such as shelving, lighting, strip curtains and overnight standby systems to improve usability, however, these additions do add to the cost.

Estimated Price Range:

A general, high-level cost range for a professional conversion is between £6,000 and £11,000. This variation highlights why requesting a tailored quote is the best way to get an accurate figure.

Businesses weighing up fridge van conversions should always factor in their operational requirements alongside the projected freezer van conversion cost to enable them to set a realistic budget.

Key Questions to Ask a Fridge Van Conversion Company

What are your insulation materials and process?
At Celsius, we exclusively use lightweight insulation panels made from recycled plastic bottles. These are fully recyclable at the end of their life and are installed with precision to deliver superior thermal efficiency without the use of wood, fibreglass, GRP sheet or metals.

What refrigeration unit do you recommend for my specific needs?
Our team assess vehicle size, load type and required temperature ranges before recommending a refrigeration unit. We fit reliable, industry-leading systems that are tailored to chiller or freezer specifications.

Is the conversion certified for food safety and hygiene?
Our fridge van conversions and freezer builds are completed to industry standards, with hygienic finishes and compliance for transporting food, pharmaceuticals and other temperature-sensitive goods.

What kind of warranty or aftercare do you offer?
At Celsius, all our conversions come with a warranty and access to aftercare support. Our team guides handover and ongoing technical assistance to keep your refrigerated van operating at peak performance.

Making the Right Choice

Fridge van conversions are a significant investment that requires professional expertise. While initial costs may feel high, a properly completed conversion ensures long-term reliability, compliance and efficiency. A professionally converted van is critical as part of a supply chain.