Tag: ColdStorage

Cold chain failures are expensive: one warm week can spoil a season of produce, a pharmacy batch or a restaurant’s stock. A 20ft refrigerated (reefer) container gives you insulated, temperature-controlled storage that holds from -25°C to +25°C, on your site, in a box that can also travel. Buy direct from our depot network with every unit function-tested before it ships.

20ft Reefer Container Technical Specifications

These are the specifications published on our 20ft Refrigerated Container (Reefer) product page. Exact specs for an individual unit are confirmed on your quote.

Specification	Imperial	Metric
Exterior (L x W x H)	20 ft 0 in x 8 ft 0 in x 8 ft 6 in	6.06 m x 2.44 m x 2.59 m
Interior (L x W x H)	17 ft 8 in x 7 ft 5 in x 7 ft 5 in	5.44 m x 2.29 m x 2.29 m
Door opening (W x H)	7 ft 5 in x 7 ft 3 in	2.26 m x 2.21 m
Tare weight	6,780 lb	3,075 kg
Max payload	60,470 lb	27,425 kg
Cubic capacity	1,000 cu ft	28.3 cbm
Temperature range	-13°F to +77°F	-25°C to +25°C
Power requirement	380-460V, 3-phase (standard reefer plug)

What the temperature range covers: -25°C to +25°C is suitable for frozen, chilled and climate-controlled storage. That makes one unit useful for frozen food, chilled produce, floral and nursery stock, and temperature-sensitive materials, from farm-to-market hauling to walk-in cold storage conversions.

Reefer vs a dry container: the insulation and refrigeration machinery take up space, so interior volume is about 1,000 cubic feet versus about 1,165 for a standard 20ft dry container, and the empty weight is much higher (about 3,075 kg versus about 2,280 kg). In return you get active temperature control.

Function-Tested Before It Ships: Our Reefer Inspection Standard

A reefer is only as good as its refrigeration system, so this is the part to look at closely. Every 20ft reefer is function-tested before it leaves the depot, with the compressor, thermostat and door seals verified operational. You choose between two conditions:

• New / one-trip: a like-new unit with a factory-fresh refrigeration unit, zero compressor cycles, full paint, and no dents or rust. It has made one ocean voyage.
• Used, function-tested: compressor, thermostat and seals mechanically verified operational. Cosmetic wear such as surface rust and minor dents is graded and disclosed separately from mechanical condition, at meaningful savings over new. Used units have logged service hours, which is reflected in the price.

Mechanical function and cosmetic condition are graded independently, so a unit can look worn but run well. We disclose both so you know exactly what you are buying. Ask us for the details of the specific unit you are considering, including the refrigeration unit make and model, before you order.

Is a Reefer Right for You? Common Uses

• Food and agriculture: frozen and chilled storage for producers, farm stands, caterers and restaurants.
• Pharma and medical supplies: temperature-controlled storage where steady conditions matter. Confirm any regulatory requirements for your products.
• Seasonal and event cold storage: extra capacity for peak periods without building a cold room.
• Cold room conversions: a ready insulated shell for walk-in cold storage projects.

Only need it for a season? Our 20ft refrigerated rental starts at $349 per month; see the 20ft reefer rental or compare with our reefer buying guide.

Reefer Buyer FAQs

What are the electrical hookup requirements?

The unit needs a 380-460V, 3-phase power source, connected through the standard reefer plug. Confirm that supply is available at your placement site before delivery, or budget for a portable generator. Units ship with the standard reefer plug, and a compatible power cord or cable can be added at checkout or sourced locally to suit your site. Have a qualified electrician confirm the connection.

Can I run the reefer without external power during transport?

No. Reefers need continuous power to hold temperature. For transport, a generator set (genset) or a reefer-equipped trailer with onboard power is required.

Where can I place it?

Choose a level, compacted surface (gravel, asphalt or concrete) rated for the unit’s loaded weight. Allow the footprint of a standard 20ft container plus room for the condenser unit to vent, and truck access for a tilt-bed or roll-off delivery. If you will use it for active cold storage, leave access for routine refrigeration maintenance. Our site preparation guide covers foundations and leveling.

What controls does it have, and how do I set the temperature?

The unit includes a thermostat, and we test it before shipping. The exact controller model depends on the individual unit, so ask us which controller your unit has and we will confirm it on your quote. Set the temperature within the unit’s -25°C to +25°C range and allow the box to reach temperature before loading product.

New/one-trip or used: what is the difference?

New/one-trip units have a factory-fresh compressor with zero run cycles. Used units are function-tested and verified operational but have logged service hours, reflected in the price.

Can I finance or lease it?

Yes. Financing and leasing options are available. Request a quote and our team will walk you through what is available for your business, or see our financing page.

Request Your 20ft Reefer Quote

Tell us your ZIP code and the condition you prefer, and we will confirm the delivered price and timing. You can also browse every refrigerated container we list, including 40ft high cube working and non-working units, or contact our team for a custom quote.