TEN Cool, the temperature-controlled trailer division of TEN (Transportation Equipment Network), has received a U.S. utility patent (No. 12,409,770) for its industry-leading Bumper System, a breakthrough innovation that enables refrigerated trailers and heated vans to be easily converted for specialized cargo transport. The patented system improves airflow, protects cargo, and adds operational flexibility without the cost of custom trailer builds. An international patent for the Bumper System is also pending.

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TEN Cool’s patented Bumper System enhances temperature-controlled trailers with improved airflow, increased load capacity, and better cargo protection.

The Bumper System was designed to address long-standing challenges in dairy and foodservice distribution, such as product damage, limited airflow, costly specialized equipment, and restricted redeployment options. Already in operation across fleets in North America, the system is driving measurable performance improvements across key areas of temperature-controlled logistics.

Proven Results in the Field

Fleets using TEN Cool’s Bumper System are reporting significant efficiency gains and measurable savings. One of North America’s largest transportation providers has already achieved over $1 million in annual savings operating a fleet of 59 refrigerated trailers, driven by increased load capacity, reduced fuel consumption, and enhanced operational efficiency.

Among the most notable improvements, fleets are seeing an 18% engine run time versus turn-on time, meaning for every hour of operation, reefers are only running about 10 minutes on diesel, greatly improving fuel efficiency and lowering emissions.

Increasing Capacity and Protecting Product Quality

The Bumper System also allows for up to two additional pallets of product per load (up to 11% more capacity), giving fleets the flexibility to carry more goods or pick up additional empty milk crates on return routes. This increased utilization directly supports cost control and environmental efficiency goals.

For grocery chains and dairies, the system’s airflow and spacing design has proven critical in reducing product damage and spoilage.

By improving airflow and reducing gaps between pallets, fleets experience tighter temperature control, reduced product damage, and fewer losses due to spoilage, which is especially important in dairy and other perishable supply chains.

Driving Long-Term Value for Fleets

With this patented bumper system, fleets can expect:

• Increased load capacity of up to 11% and the ability to haul additional backhaul freight or empty milk crates
• Significant annual cost savings, as seen in one fleet’s $1 million results
• Lower fuel usage through improved reefer efficiency, airflow, and reduced engine run time
• Reduced product damage and better temperature consistency
• Flexible trailer utilization, allowing faster reconfiguration for specialized or standard freight
• Longer equipment life and lower maintenance costs supported by modular design

“Our Bumper System is a breakthrough for refrigerated trailers,” said Don White, Vice President of Refrigerated Strategy and Solutions at TEN Cool. “It protects products in transit, reduces costly damage, and streamlines fleet operations. This innovation came from listening to our customers and working closely with them to develop a smarter, more efficient solution. This patent reflects the ingenuity and real-world value our team delivers to the industry.”

About TEN Cool

With a fleet of 10,000 refrigerated and heated trailers and an experienced team of specialists, TEN Cool delivers tailored temperature-controlled solutions throughout the United States and Canada. As the dedicated refrigerated division of TEN (Transportation Equipment Network), TEN Cool combines industry-leading expertise with advanced equipment and service capabilities. Learn more about TEN Cool at https://tenleasing.com/en/services/ten-cool/.

About TEN (Transportation Equipment Network)

TEN is the largest full-service trailer lessor in North America, with approximately 83,000 trailers, 1,000 employees, 240 service bays, 118 mobile service trucks, 430 mechanics, and a coast-to-coast presence across the United States and Canada. TEN provides full-service leasing, maintenance, advanced technology solutions, consulting services, and other innovative offerings across numerous industry verticals. Learn more at TENLeasing.com.

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“Our Bumper System boosts trailer efficiency, protects cargo, and improves airflow. This patent highlights TEN Cool’s commitment to smarter, customer-focused innovation.” – Don White, VP of Refrigerated Strategy and Solutions