Hi all.

These are the things i think you should be asking when you go to buy a cooler box. The industry is very big, competitive and unfortunately, not everyone is in it to do the right thing. So here are my top tips when purchasing a cooler box. It does'nt hurt to ask.

1. Ask if the cooler box is fully insulated. If it is not, walk away and find one that is.

2. Ask if the plastic used to make the box has been UV protected.

3. Ask if the box has been produced using an anti-delamination process. This is now used to avoid the plastic wall coming away from the insulation.

4. Ask if there are parts to replace anything that you can break.

5. Ask if there is any warranty. You should get 5 years minimum. Check what is covered.

6. Be aware that a lot of models have a lid design that has a recess on it. This means that when you close the lid, it actually recesses into the space of the box.

This is something i always point out to people and i find a lot of people had no idea about the recess and actually change their decission based on their need.

7. Ask if there is any after sale service. If something goes wrong, what is the seller going to do for you.

8. Ask if the latches and screws are stainless steel. Marine grade is even better.

9. Ask what the cooling rating is. Most will be 5 - 9 days. Fibreglass will have a longer rating on most models. Be aware how this rating is achieved. The box is filled with ice, closed and put in the shade for 7 days. In reality you must consider the factors. Outside temperature, type of ice used, how many times you open the box, direct sunlight, what you put in it and how thick the lid/walls are. 

10. Lastly, get a box that is made to suit your needs, there is plenty to choose from.

I recently sold a box to a guy who has got 14, his motto is you can never have enough.

Enjoy

Dave Allen

Xtreme Coolers