How Do Reefer Containers Work?
No, we’re not talking about that kind of reefer! We’re talking about reefer containers! Reefers, or refrigerated containers, are portable containers designed with cooling capabilities to keep sensitive, delicate, or perishable goods at precise temperatures. Refrigerated containers come in different dimensions and maintain temperatures consistent with deep freezing or general cooling. More specifically, the temperature range for a reefer usually is -30°C to 30°C (-22°F to +86°F). USA-Containers has precisely what you need for companies or individuals searching for high-quality refrigerated containers.
What Makes Up Your Reefer?
The parts and systems of a refrigerated container work in tandem to ensure temperatures stay consistent, humidity levels are managed, and goods can be safely and securely transported anywhere. When USA-Containers sells or rents our reefers, we inspect every component to ensure each unit operates at peak efficiency. The main components that make up a reefer unit include:
- Refrigeration Units cool the air inside a container. Standard reefers use three-phase chillers and freezers, with options for single-phase chillers/freezers to meet specific power requirements.
- Insulated Walls provide the necessary thermal insulation for reefers to maintain internal temperatures and prevent external heat from affecting the container’s contents.
- Control Units and Temperature Gauges monitor the internal temperatures of a reefer and can be adjusted to control temperature, humidity, etc.
- Interior Fans help distribute cold air throughout a container, ensuring every corner of your reefer receives adequate cooling.
- Drainage Systems remove excess water that tends to pool during refrigeration, preventing water buildup and potential damage to goods.
- Roll-up Doors and Interior Shelving are optional additions to refrigerated shipping containers, which USA-Containers can easily install.
What Goods Are Kept in a Reefer?
As you might expect, refrigerated containers are always in high demand, as a vast number of industries across the United States can utilize them. Because reefers can allow the transportation of delicate or perishable goods with minimal risk of damage or spoilage, they are the preferred commercial refrigeration option for many businesses. Examples of goods a refrigerated container commonly carries include:
- Pharmaceuticals – Medications, vaccines, and some medical supplies
- Food Products – Meats, dairy, fresh produce and frozen foods
- Beverages – Dairy products, juices and alcoholic beverages
- Parts and Products – Computers, computer parts, electronics, and delicate components
- Everything Else – Flowers, industrial equipment, chemicals, etc.
How Big Can Your Reefer Get?
Our clients can find the perfect size of reefer to fit their personal or professional needs. Most containers are manufactured according to the International Organization for Standardization, meaning reefer sizes stay consistent. However, depending on the age and brand of reefer, some can have slight size variations. At USA-Containers, our clients can most commonly expect:
20′ Reefers
| Internal Dimensions (Approx.) |
Capacity (Approx.) |
| Length: 17 feet 10.5 inches (5,456 mm) |
Tare Weight: 3,040 kg (6,700 lbs) |
| Width: 7 feet 6 inches (2,286 mm) |
Payload Capacity: 27,440 kg (60,500 lbs) |
| Height: 7 feet 5 inches (2,261 mm) |
|
40′ Reefers
| Internal Dimensions (Approx.) |
Capacity (Approx.) |
| Length: 37 feet 11.25 inches (11,556 mm) |
Tare Weight: 4,800 kg (10,584 lbs) |
| Width: 7 feet 6 inches (2,286 mm) |
Payload Capacity: 29,200 kg (64,376 lbs) |
| Height: 8 feet 3.5 inches (2,523 mm) |
|
Purchase or Rent a Reefer with USA-Containers
Finding quality reefers for an affordable price can be a challenging prospect for many businesses. That’s why USA-Containers strives to provide one of the largest selections of refrigerated containers to rent or purchase in the US. We thoroughly inspect and fine-tune each reefer before sale, ensuring you always get peak cooling efficiency out of your equipment. Additionally, we can customize your reefer or supply specialized refrigerated containers for outdoor events and catering, like our Ice Cubz containers. To learn more about our reefers or other shipping container options, call us today at 309-325-7201. USA-Containers is located at 1069 Township Road 1950 East Smithshire, IL, 61478, serving clients across the United States.
