Cold distribution: own fleet or logistics provider?

Compare fleet costs with quotes for the same load, stops, temperature records and return duties.

26 February 2022Updated 23 September 2026

Short answer

For the same route and load, total your vehicle, driver, fuel, preparation, cleaning and return costs. In the logistics quote, identify who performs the same tasks and which services cost extra. Compare both totals per completed order, with the same temperature-evidence requirement.

Compare an owned fleet with an outsourced quote only when both cover the same work. Different loads, delivery windows, stops, records or empty-container returns mean the prices do not describe the same service.

Match the scope first

Choose a sample route and write down product quantity, stops, delivery window, temperature record and recipient handoff requirements. Assign responsibility for plate preparation, loading, waiting, cleaning and empty-container return in each option.

For an owned fleet, total vehicle finance or rental, driver, fuel, maintenance, preparation and cleaning over the same period. Use the written logistics quote and add the tasks it excludes. Divide each total by completed deliveries to get cost per order.

Calculate the normal and delayed route separately. Ask the provider for sample delivery records and its exception process. Decide on both cost and which arrangement can meet the same product conditions and evidence requirement.