Refrigerated containers
Refrigerated containers (reefers) are fully insulated containers with their own cooling unit for temperature-controlled storage and transport. Depending on the model they hold constant temperatures from deep freeze to above zero and record the profile via a data logger. They require a suitably rated power supply, normally three-phase via a CEE socket.
Typical uses
- Cold storage for food at producers, butchers and bakeries
- Extra chilling capacity for restaurants and caterers in peak season
- Chilling drinks and food at festivals, town fairs and Christmas markets
- Temperature-controlled storage of pharmaceuticals, vaccines and lab samples
- Interim storage of fruit and vegetables during harvest and marketing
- Backup cooling when a fixed cold room fails or is being rebuilt
- Chilling flowers and plants in horticulture and floristry wholesale
- Maintaining the cold chain for fish and meat between port and premises
Sizes and dimensions
| Size | Internal approx. L × W × H | Volume approx. | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 ft | approx. 2.4 × 2.1 × 2.1 m | approx. 10 m³ | for catering and events |
| 20 ft | approx. 5.45 × 2.29 × 2.27 m | approx. 28 m³ | the most common hire unit |
| 40 ft high cube | approx. 11.58 × 2.29 × 2.55 m | approx. 67 m³ | for large quantities and palletised goods |
Approximate values; the thick insulation and the unit take noticeable interior space compared with a standard container.
✓ Advantages
- Precise temperature control with setpoints and data logging
- Usable from deep freeze through to above-zero ranges
- Mobile, rentable at short notice and quick to commission
- Well insulated and rugged enough for outdoor siting
- Hygienic stainless steel or aluminium interior lining
! Points to consider
- Needs a permanent, adequately rated power supply
- Higher running costs due to the unit’s electricity consumption
- Regular servicing of the unit, seals and defrost system
- Noise and waste heat can be a problem close to housing
Equipment and options
- Refrigeration unit at one end
- Insulated walls, T-bar floor for airflow
- Temperature control and data logger
- Three-phase power inlet (CEE)
- Optional: shelving, interior lighting, remote monitoring, strip curtain
Price guide
- Hire 20 ft
- usually more than an office container, plus power
- Purchase used 20 ft
- heavily dependent on the condition of the unit
- Electricity
- a significant running cost in continuous operation
Rough orientation values without guarantee; prices vary by region, condition and market.
What to look out for
- Clarify the power supply beforehand: refrigerated containers need a three-phase supply with adequate protection.
- When buying used, have the unit checked by a refrigeration specialist.
- Site it in the shade and ensure air circulation around the unit.
- For food, plan temperature recording and an alarm.
- For short use, hire is almost always cheaper than buying.
Frequently asked questions
How much power does a refrigerated container use?
That depends heavily on set temperature, ambient temperature, load and door openings. Running a 20 ft unit continuously quickly adds up to several thousand kilowatt hours over a year.
Can a refrigerated container also freeze?
Many units cover roughly minus 25 to plus 25 degrees, some a considerably wider range. The exact values are in the data sheet.
Related guides
Planning with refrigerated containers?
Compare sizes, costs and buying vs. renting in our guides.
