In global logistics, a broken chain can simply mean a delay. In the world of temperature-sensitive goods, a broken chain means total loss. This is the challenge of the cold chain, and the solution lies in the specialized, climate-controlled environment of the refrigerated container—universally known as the Reefer.
Reefers are the mobile cold storage solutions that power modern international trade, ensuring everything from fresh salmon and pharmaceuticals to delicate flowers arrives safely and in perfect condition.
Understanding the Role of the Reefer Container
A Reefer container is a standard 20ft or 40ft shipping container built with integral refrigeration machinery and highly effective insulation. They are not merely sophisticated coolers; they are environmental managers.
🌡️ The Cold Chain Function
- Temperature Maintenance: The primary goal is to maintain the temperature of pre-cooled cargo. Reefers are not designed to freeze or rapidly chill warm products, which must be at their required set-point before loading.
- Precision Control: Modern reefers can maintain temperatures between a deep-freeze of 35 degrees and a warm chill of 30 degrees, adjusted to within a fraction of a degree.
- Air Circulation: They use a T-bar floor design to ensure chilled air is delivered from the bottom and circulated up and around the cargo, removing heat and maintaining a uniform temperature throughout the container.
Key Reefer Container Uses
Reefer containers are indispensable across multiple sectors:
- Food & Beverage: Transporting fresh produce, frozen meats, seafood, dairy, and confectionery worldwide.
- Pharmaceuticals: Maintaining the strict 2 degrees to 8 degrees range required for vaccines and temperature-sensitive medications.
- Chemicals: Shipping certain industrial or hazardous chemicals that require controlled temperatures for safety and stability.
- Horticulture: Moving flowers and live plants, often requiring both temperature and humidity control.
Advanced Cold Storage Solutions: Types of Reefers
The term ‘reefer’ covers several specialized types, each designed for a unique challenge:
| Reefer Type | Key Feature | Specialized Use |
| Standard Reefer (RF) | Maintains temperature (heating and cooling) and provides basic fresh air exchange. | Frozen goods, standard chilled food. |
| High Cube Reefer (RH) | One foot taller than the standard 40ft unit, maximizing volume. | Palletized goods, tall produce, maximizing cubic capacity. |
| Controlled Atmosphere (CA) | Regulates oxygen and carbon dioxide levels inside the container. | Extending the shelf life of fruits (like bananas and apples) by slowing the ripening process during transit. |
| Super Freezer | Capable of achieving ultra-low temperatures, often down to 60 degrees. | High-value frozen seafood (e.g., Tuna) and specialized biologics. |
Guide to a Used Reefer: On-Site Cold Storage
Beyond shipping, retired or used reefers provide highly cost-effective cold storage solutions for businesses on land. They are perfect for restaurants, events, farms, and hospitals that need reliable, temporary, or permanent walk-in cold rooms without the cost of brick-and-mortar construction.
Buying a Used Reefer? Inspect These Critical Areas:
- Refrigeration Unit Function: The machine must be running and able to reach and maintain the target temperature ($\text{PTI}$ Tested – Pre-Trip Inspection).
- Structural Integrity: Inspect the stainless steel interior and aluminum T-bar floor for major damage that could compromise insulation.
- Door Seals: Check the door gaskets rigorously. A light check from the inside (closing the doors and checking for light seepage) confirms insulation integrity.
- Power Requirements: Used units require a 3-phase power supply (typically 380V to 460V. Ensure your site can accommodate the electrical needs, or budget for a Genset (generator set) for true mobile operation.
The integrity of the modern supply chain rests on the technology within these mobile cold rooms. Whether transporting vaccines across continents or providing temporary cold storage for a seasonal peak, the reefer container is a critical asset.
Looking to invest in reliable refrigerated storage for your business?
- Explore our Reefer Options: See our current inventory of 20ft and 40ft refrigerated container units for purchase or lease: Fredemi Refrigerated Container Guide
- Get a Cold Storage Quote: Discuss your cold storage solutions needs with our team to find the right temperature-controlled unit: Contact fredemi.org for a Reefer Quote
