A refrigerated container, or “reefer,” is a standard container shell with a self-contained refrigeration unit built into one end wall — the same equipment that keeps produce and pharmaceuticals cold on container ships, now available as standalone cold storage for a business or property.
How a reefer actually works
Unlike a standard container, a reefer has fully insulated walls, a sealed floor designed for cold-chain use, and a refrigeration unit that plugs into standard 3-phase or single-phase power (depending on the model) to hold a set temperature, typically down to around -20°F on commercial units. Our 40ft high cube working reefer is fully functional and tested before delivery.
Common uses beyond shipping
Reefers are popular for restaurant and grocery overflow cold storage, farm and produce operations needing on-site refrigeration during harvest, event catering, and emergency or disaster-response cold storage. Because the unit is self-contained, it can run anywhere with adequate power, not just at a port or distribution center.
Power requirements
Plan for a dedicated electrical circuit sized to the unit’s compressor draw — this is meaningfully more power than a standard container conversion needs, so confirm your site’s available service before ordering. If continuous power isn’t available on-site, a generator sized for the refrigeration unit’s running and startup load is a common workaround for temporary placements.
New vs. used reefers
A “working reefer” designation means the refrigeration unit has been tested and certified functional, which matters far more for a reefer than the cosmetic grading that applies to dry containers — see our grades explained guide for how grading differs for specialized units like this.
Maintaining a reefer long-term
Refrigeration units need periodic servicing much like any commercial HVAC/refrigeration system — refrigerant checks, coil cleaning, and door seal inspection. Budget for this the same way you would for a walk-in cooler. Ready to see current reefer inventory? Browse refrigerated containers or request a delivered quote.
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