Yes, we do run both. My opinion changed somewhat because the rate structure was different compared to past offerings. Current numbers found it out performed in gross numbers campared to where the truck was originally leased. I buy this equipment used. I don't know if it is a fair comparison in that regard because I only have gross monthly numbers and availibility to compare. I don't have other numbers so it is not a total analysis.
When looking at current numbers the reefer unit out performs the other surface trucks by 6 percent. When comparing, the 6 percent gain is wiped out by repairs and downtime. Specifically reefer repairs. Keep in mind that this is on used equipment.
As I have stated in other posts, it is more of a calling. The numbers are pretty much a wash. Remember that this is just my comparisons. If buying new, the numbers just don't add up. All of the additional finance,insurance, and operational costs don't offset the difference. With some carriers it might? I find that for me, the reefer has too many restrictions in size (interior box width) that we lose some frieght from it.
Keep in mind also that if you have to move from a carrier, there is only a handful of companies where this equipment has any value.
The easiest way is to do a simple comparison of numbers. If you purchase a $100,000 truck and run at say $1.30 base rate, what numbers do you need to run a $150,000 reefer truck and achieve the same percentage of return. Keep in mind that finance, maintenance, insurance, and fuel charges will be higher. Will you get more runs? Maybe, but for us it is a wash. You gain some loads, and lose some. That comparison is on a 22 footer. Variances between the two have changed little over the last decade. Rates are pretty much the same, but all other costs have increased significantly.
Think it through carefully before you jump.
Davekc
owner
21 years
PantherII
EO moderator