Simple Guide to OE, OEM, and Aftermarket Parts for Your Refrigerated Vehicles

When it comes to maintaining and repairing your refrigerated trucks, the type of parts you choose can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your fleet. Understanding the differences between OE, OEM, and Aftermarket parts is crucial for making informed decisions that keep your transport refrigeration units (TRUs) running smoothly. In this guide, we'll break down these terms and explain what they mean for your business.

What Are OE Parts?

OE (Original Equipment) parts are the components that were originally installed in your vehicle when it was first manufactured. These parts are produced by the vehicle manufacturer or by a subcontractor specifically for the manufacturer. Because OE parts are designed and tested to meet the exact specifications of your vehicle, they often offer the best fit and performance.

Key Benefits of OE Parts:

• Perfect Fit: As these parts are made to the original specifications, they fit perfectly with your existing equipment.
• Reliability: OE parts are designed to work seamlessly with your vehicle, ensuring high reliability and optimal performance.
• Warranty Protection: Using OE parts can help maintain your vehicle’s warranty, providing added peace of mind.

What Are OEM Parts?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the same manufacturers who produce OE parts, but they are sold under a different brand name. These parts are identical to OE parts in terms of quality and performance but can often be found at a lower price point.

Key Benefits of OEM Parts:

• Quality Assurance: OEM parts offer the same quality and performance as OE parts since they come from the same manufacturer.
• Cost-Effective: Typically less expensive than OE parts, making them a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.
• Availability: OEM parts are widely available, making it easier to find the specific parts you need for your repairs and maintenance.

What Are Aftermarket Parts?

Aftermarket parts are produced by the same manufacturers or third-party manufacturers who are not affiliated with the original vehicle manufacturer. These parts are designed to fit and function similarly to OE and OEM parts but often come at a significantly lower price. The quality of aftermarket parts can vary widely, so it’s essential to choose reputable brands.

Key Benefits of Aftermarket Parts:

• Affordability: Aftermarket parts are generally the most cost-effective option, offering substantial savings.
• Variety: There is a vast selection of aftermarket parts available, providing numerous options for customisation and performance enhancement.
• Innovation: Some aftermarket manufacturers innovate beyond the original specifications, offering parts with improved performance or additional features. At Myriad Parts, we stock over 55,000 products in 2,000 product lines.

Here’s a Real-World Example from the Transport Refrigeration (TRU) Market: Fuel Pump (MPN3051)

Let’s take fuel pumps as an example to see how OE, OEM, and aftermarket parts compare in practice.

• Thermo King® Fuel Pump – This is an OE part, supplied directly by the original equipment manufacturer and fitted to the unit when new.
• Carrier Transicold® Fuel Pump – Also an OE part, made for Carrier systems to precise original specs.
• Facet® Fuel Pump – This would typically be an OEM product, made by the same manufacturer that may supply to OE brands, but sold under its own name.
• Myriad MPN3051 Fuel Pump – This is the exact same pump produced by Facet (the OEM), branded by Myriad. It is manufactured to the same specifications as the OE version and replaces part numbers 30-01108-13 and 41-7059. 

Current Price Comparison:

• Thermo King® - £431.32*
• Carrier Transicold® - £331.34*
• Facet® - (Price varies by supplier)
• Myriad MPN3051 – Prices start from £83.34

At less than half the cost of the OE-branded version, the Myriad MPN3051 fuel pump offers fleet operators a reliable, cost-effective alternative. It’s tested in the field, backed by warranty, and trusted by refrigeration professionals across the UK and Europe. In this case, it’s a like-for-like replacement — delivering the same performance and fit as the OE part, without the expense of the original branding and box.

Making the Right Choice for Your Fleet

Choosing between OE, OEM, and aftermarket parts depends on several factors, including your budget, the specific needs of your fleet, and your long-term maintenance strategy. Here are some tips to help you decide:

1. Evaluate Your Budget: Aftermarket parts can provide excellent value for money-especially when they are the same product manufactured in the same factory as their OE or OEM counterparts. In many cases, like the MPN3051, you're getting the same performance and reliability at a significantly reduced price.
2. Consider Quality and Performance: While OE and OEM parts are often the go-to for critical components, don't overlook high-quality aftermarket alternatives. For many parts, the quality difference is negligible or non-existent-especially when sourced from trusted suppliers.
3. Warranty and Support: If preserving a manufacturer's warranty is crucial, OE or OEM parts may be the safest bet. That said, many aftermarket parts now come with their own warranties and support, providing additional peace of mind.
4. Availability: As the largest stockist of TRU aftermarket parts in Europe, Myriad Parts ensures quick access to the replacement components you need — helping to minimise downtime and keep your fleet on the road.

Global Market Considerations

With global supply chains under question due to possible trade wars, shifting tariffs, and general economic uncertainty, securing reliable, high-quality parts at the right price has never been more important. Myriad Parts offers customers throughout the UK and Europe consistent value, dependable availability, and proven performance — making us a trusted choice in an unpredictable market.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between OE, OEM, and aftermarket parts can help you make informed decisions that benefit your refrigerated truck fleet. Whether you’re looking for the highest quality parts, budget-friendly alternatives, or innovative solutions, Myriad Parts is here to support your needs with a wide range of options. Visit our online store to explore our extensive inventory and find the perfect parts for your fleet.

At Myriad Parts, we’re committed to keeping your transport refrigeration units running at their best. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.

*Please note that the prices used in this article are based on our market research at the time that the article was written. The recommended retail prices used in this article are based on the published price lists available in the UK in early 2025.