Refrigerated Shipping Containers (Reefers): Uses, Sizes & How to Choose

When you need reliable cold storage you can place almost anywhere, a refrigerated shipping container, often called a reefer, is one of the most practical solutions available. These insulated steel containers come with built-in cooling systems that hold precise temperatures, making them invaluable for businesses that handle perishable goods. Here’s what to know before buying one.

What Is a Refrigerated Container?

A refrigerated container is a standard shipping container fitted with an integrated refrigeration unit and heavy insulation. Unlike a regular container, it can maintain temperatures from deep-freeze up to chilled, all from a single power connection. That makes it a portable, weatherproof cold room you can drop on almost any site. Explore our refrigerated containers for sale.

Common Sizes

Reefers come in the same footprints as dry containers, so you can match capacity to your needs. Compact 10ft units suit small kitchens, florists, or single-site catering, while 20ft and 40ft reefers serve restaurants, farms, distributors, and event venues that need serious cold-storage volume.

Top Uses for Refrigerated Containers

Reefers are remarkably versatile. Restaurants and grocers use them to expand cold storage without construction, farms use them to keep produce fresh through harvest, and event organizers use them for festivals and pop-ups. They’re also popular with pharmaceutical and floral businesses that need tight temperature control, and because they’re mobile, you can reposition them as your needs change.

How to Choose the Right Reefer

Focus on three things: temperature range, size, and power. Confirm the unit can reach the temperatures your goods require, choose a capacity with a little headroom for growth, and make sure your site can supply the right power. A newer unit offers peace of mind for critical storage, while a well-maintained used reefer can be a cost-effective choice for less demanding uses.

Delivery and Setup

Like all our heavy units, refrigerated containers ship by freight carrier with a clear flat shipping rate, and arrive ready to connect to power. Review our delivery and site preparation guide so your location is ready when the truck arrives.