Aug. 04, 2025
Logistics is the backbone of every organization, and reefer containers play an essential role in transportation. However, some business owners lack the information to help them purchase a suitable reefer container for their businesses. As a result, they may end up getting low-quality products that do not meet their daily needs.
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Before buying a reefer container, it is important to assess how it will help your business. You also need to know the types and sizes of reefers available on the market and the steps you should take to purchase one. This guide will assist you in securing the best reefer containers available today.
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Reefer containers are specialized containers for shipping temperature-sensitive cargo. They are fitted with cooling units to maintain the load under stable temperatures and, if necessary, humidity levels throughout the journey. These shipping systems protect the products from spoiling or experiencing temperature excursions due to exposure to heat, moisture, insufficient airflow or extreme drops in temperature.
A refrigeration system supplies air temperatures from one end of the reefer container to the other end of the container, either through the “T-Floor” under the product and/or product pallets in the case of a bottom-air delivery system (the most common type) or over the product in a top-air delivery system.
The primary air supply is directed from the refrigeration unit to the container doors. When the refrigeration unit delivers supply air, the air is pushed toward the container doors, and eventually cycles back to the cooling unit, creating a continuous cycle and exchange of cold air.
Reefers have broad industrial applications, including the following:
Reefer containers are integral to the transportation of products in various industries. Organizations worldwide invest in refrigerated containers for the following reasons:
Almost every sector has strict regulatory protocols and standards for shipping products. Businesses worldwide need to protect their cargo when transporting them. That is what makes reefer containers an absolute necessity.
A refrigeration system allows shippers from many industries to transport delicate cargo with minimal concern. Also, different products within individual sectors may require unique transportation temperatures or other specifications, which can be done efficiently with reefer containers.
With reefer containers, you can maintain a stable temperature throughout the transportation process regardless of your industry.
Products across industries have different characteristics and will require various storage and transport specifications. For example, while transporting dangerous goods may require explosion-proof or redundant refrigerated containers, meat or seafood transportation requires freezer and sometimes deep freezer systems.
Additionally, organizations may require special container sizes for various reasons. Besides the standard sizes and features, reefers are customizable according to your particular needs. This customizability makes them suitable for ocean, road or rail transportation. Many businesses take advantage of these features to scale up their operations.
Businesses can lose tremendous amounts of money due to poor transportation procedures and a lack of storage facilities. Reefer containers allow you to safely transport different products at the recommended temperatures, reducing the risk of losing valuables. Reefer manufacturers employ state-of-the-art technology to create the best solutions you can personalize according to your budget and needs. Further to this trend, Klinge also offers dual redundant systems to provide back-up in case of any failures which may occur and track and trace device to provide notifications remotely via GSM and/or Satellite connections.
Reefers are designed and built by experienced engineers with tools and techniques that allow them to meet the strict durability requirements needed to keep products safe and secure. Reefer materials are also robust and can withstand strong winds, intense water currents and other harsh climatic conditions.
A significant advantage of reefer containers is the ability to use them on multiple carriers, making them suitable for inland and oversea transports. Refrigerated containers offer various alternatives depending on your business’s needs and the budget allocated for transportation.
There are different types and sizes of reefers available. Here is what to know when buying refrigerated containers for ocean transport or stationary storage:
Shipping companies and manufacturers calculate rates according to the twenty-foot-equivalent-unit (TEU) and the forty-foot-equivalent-unit (FEU).
TEU is the size of a standard 20-foot shipping container, 20 feet in length, 8 feet in width and 8 feet 6 inches in height. These 20′ containers weigh approximately 3,080 kg (6,791 lbs.) and with a max gross weight of 30,480 kg (67,200 lbs.) can carry a payload weighing approximately 27,400 kg (60,417 lbs) and can hold nine to 10 pallets, depending on whether they are standard American or European. The typical American pallet measures 40 inches (mm) by 48 inches (mm), while the European standard is mm (47.2 inches) x 800mm (31.5 inches).
The FEU is the size of a standard 40-foot standing container, with internal dimensions of approximately 40 feet in length, 8 feet in width and 9 feet 6 inches in height. These containers weigh approximately 4,800 kg (10,584 lbs.) and with a max gross weight of 34,000 kg (74,960 lbs.) you can load to a maximum overall weight of 29,520 kg (65,080 lbs.). A 40-foot container can hold 22 to 23 pallets, again depending on whether they are standard American or European sizes.
The three main types of reefer containers are:
Examples of high-quality refrigeration unit products for ISO containers and sea containers are:
The following steps should guide you when buying a reefer container:
When buying a container, assess your business needs and the challenge you want to solve with the reefer. This consideration helps you know which type or size of reefer to purchase and whether to choose the standard alternatives or build a custom unit. While there are industry standards you may need to follow, learning more about the specific products you deal with is essential to make the correct decision, too.
The prices of reefers depend on factors such as the dimensions, functions and the location of purchase. After evaluating your business needs, make a list of the required functions and request a quote from a manufacturer. It also helps to seek professional advice to be sure the budget available can build the refrigerated container you need for that particular job. Also keep in mind that if you do spend more on a system with great capabilities such as dual-redundancy or integral power, you may ultimately save more in the long run by avoiding product loss and temperature excursions.
Consider the product temperature range, container size, power requirements and other special features like sensors and trackers to keep your products safe. The reefer container you purchase should accommodate the number of products you regularly transport and protect them throughout the journey.
Locating a reliable manufacturer is crucial. Conduct thorough research online, consult experts in the field and ask colleagues to identify who can deliver quality products that meet your business’s needs and increase your return on investment. It is important also that you understand how spare parts and service for the equipment will be provided around the globe as some manufacturers only have regional support for their equipment. If you are buying through a reseller, make sure that the equipment being ordered will be able to be supported for many years into the future.
Contact your chosen supplier and inquire about the type of reefer you need. Ask questions about the unique specifications and features you can add for optimum performance and arrange the contract. Finally, make arrangements for delivery, logistics and installation.
Do you have further questions about reefer containers? Read some FAQs here:
Buying reefers is preferable to many organizations, as the assets are owned and can be called on any time, thereby making logistics more manageable and enhancing the flow of business operations. Planning logistics has become more challenging the ever, and purchasing refrigerated containers helps you avoid the increase in rent cost and inconvenience which can occur, particularly in certain high-utilization seasons.
Buying reefer containers instead of renting may be ideal in allowing you to run a complete business and perform better against competitors. But if your need is short-term and capital expenditure approvals are difficult in your organization, adding the rental cost of a reefer as an expense may be the preferable way to go.
After purchasing reefers, you may arrange with the vendor to transport the unit to your desired location. You can also negotiate with a third party to assist with transportation and installation. However, securing a professional with experience in reefer delivery and logistics is best. It also helps if the manufacturer offers complete services, including repairs.
The contract may state when the risk of loss and title will transfer to the buyer. This is important because it gives you an idea of who to hold liable should any challenges arise from the delivery to the installation stage.
Yes, your shipping container must be CSC-approved. This certification is to ensure optimum safety during the shipping process and facilitate the international transportation of containers by providing uniform safety regulations.
Logistics is integral to your business’s success, which makes reefer containers an absolute necessity when you handle products with short shelf lives or special transportation requirements. Organizations in various industries rely on refrigerated containers when transporting valuable products, whether by sea, road or rail.
Klinge Corporation is a global leader in designing and manufacturing specialized transportation refrigeration units. We partner with customers worldwide to offer personalized services and products that help them do what they do best. Contact us today to learn more — we are ready to help you grow your business.
Last updated: 18 October,
Looking for the best deals on reefer sales? We’re here to help. Read this blog to learn how to grow your reefer fleet without breaking the bank. Plus, work with vetted container suppliers you can trust.
If you need to keep temperature-sensitive cargo fresh or frozen as it moves around the world, reefer containers are your answer. At a time when everything is easily accessible online, finding reefers for sale isn’t a hassle anymore. However, we know what is still a challenge: Sourcing them from reputable sellers at prices that suit your budget.
You’ve got enough on your to-do list, so we’ll make it easier for you. On the Container xChange platform, you can buy quality reefer containers from vetted suppliers at 100% negotiable prices. We run a strict background check to ensure you’re are dealing with legitimate suppliers offering genuine deals.
Seeing is believing, so why not try out our trading search right now to browse offers? Choose from 50,000+ containers available in over 2,500 cities to find the perfect deal for your needs. Type in the location and container type you’re after, then press ‘search’ to get started.
Shipping container prices depend on factors including the container type, size, location and market situation. Another important element influencing the price is the container condition.
Brand-new or one-trip reefers are a great investment if you’ve got the capital to lay down upfront. They’ll have no damage or rust and will last for over 20 years if well maintained.
A new 40ft reefer container in the US will cost you around US $7,868. In China, on the other hand, you’re looking at US $15,184, showing just how drastically prices can vary from country to country.
You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Huipu Power.
On Container xChange, we’ve got new reefer containers of various sizes on offer in 2,500+ locations. Remember, prices are negotiable, so you can decide what you want to pay for the containers you need. Why not check out some prices right now to see the deals we have available?
Used or cargo-worthy reefers are likely to have undergone repairs during their lifetime and will come with some dents and scratches. However, they’ll do the job of transporting your cargo all the same, for a reduced cost. The choice is yours.
If you’re searching for a used refrigerated container for sale in the US, you’re looking at around US $7,668 for the 40ft variety. And in China, you’ll pay about US $8,362 for this container size.
So how much can you save opting for cargo-worthy equipment? If we use China as an example, you’re looking at a difference of US $6,822 between a new and a used reefer. Just think about how much you’ll be saving if you buy 10 used reefers instead of 10 new ones!
Want to browse and compare the prices of used reefer containers in the locations of your choice, to see how much you can save? Take a look at cargo-worthy reefer deals right now.
Next, let’s dive a little deeper into the reefer sizes available, plus their uses and dimensions. There are three main sizes of refrigerated containers on the market: 20ft, 40ft and 40ft HC.
To get an idea of whether your shipment will fit in a container, it’s important to know the payload and cubic capacity (volume) of the equipment you’re after. You’ll then need to compare this with the weight and volume of your shipment.
20ft reefer containers are ideal for smaller shipments of temperature-sensitive goods. Due to their lightweight nature, you can pack in heavyweight cargo to maintain that perfect weight-to-volume ratio.
For the 20ft reefer, the payload capacity is 27,400 kg / 60,417 lbs and the cubic capacity is 999 cu ft / 28.3 m³.
If this is the container size you’re after for your cold shipments, you’re looking at around US $6,263 for a cargo-worthy 20ft reefer in the US. In Northern Europe, you’ll pay US $5,645 and in India US $8,146.
So you’ve looked at the dimensions and your shipments will fit into the 20ft variety perfectly. Great! Then what are you waiting for? Get your hands on nifty 20ft reefers for your cargo at the best prices now.
One of the most commonly-used reefer container sizes is the 40ft. It provides you with double the storage space of the 20ft, and usually only costs around 30% more. Now that’s a good deal!
The payload capacity of the 40ft reefer is 27,700 kg / 61,079 lbs and the cubic capacity is 2,093.3 cu ft / 59.3 m³.
Want to buy this value-for-money reefer size to pack in large shipments? Get cargo-worthy 40ft reefers for US $7,755 in the US, US $2,685 in Northern Europe, and US $7,246 in India.
Noticed how cheap 40ft containers in Northern Europe are? Curious to see the reefer sales you can get in other areas? Find and compare prices and offers for 40ft reefers in 2,500+ locations quickly and easily.
The 40ft HC reefer has the same dimensions as the 40ft, with one major difference. It’s got an extra foot of height. This container is ideal for transporting high volume shipments that don’t quite fit into the regular 40ft reefer.
Instead of buying more containers to accommodate your needs, opt for the high cube instead. You’ll fit more cargo into fewer containers and save money in the process.
The payload capacity of the high cube is 29,520 kg / 65,080 lbs and the cubic capacity is 2,380 cu ft / 67.3 m³.
Interested in buying 40ft HC reefers? Get cargo-worthy 40ft high cubes for US $6,821 in the US, US $5,359 in Northern Europe and US $6,803 in India.
The high cube gives you the flexibility to fit extra large shipments into one container comfortably. We also have 45ft reefer containers available on our container marketplace. Find all kinds of reefers in the locations you need now, at prices that suit your budget.
So now you know the reefer sizes, dimensions and prices. Next, we’ll go over the easy steps to getting reefers at the best prices on Container xChange.
First things first, it’s important to be in-the-know about what to pay for reefer containers. Make sure you do your research beforehand, so that you can spot a good price when you see one.
Browse container offers: Type in the location, plus the container type you’re looking for to start browsing. You’ll be able to shortlist and compare multiple offers at the same time in order to select the best option for your needs and budget.
Negotiate a deal: Found the reefers you want? Then it’s time to contact the seller directly on the platform to negotiate a deal. The best part? There are no middlemen involved. Just you and the seller settling all of the finer details together. Convenient right?
Make safe payments: Once you’ve signed the deal, the only thing left to do is pay for the containers. You can do this on xChange, using our xChange Wallet. It’s so quick and easy!
Want to be sure you’re making the correct choice buying reefers rather than leasing them? Let’s put your mind at ease with some of the main benefits of buying over leasing.
Opt to buy refrigerated containers if your needs resonate with any of the following:
Leasing equipment on a regular basis can really start to add up. Buying containers means you’ll pay once-off costs, and can then use the containers hassle-free for as long as you need. Finished using them? Sell your reefers again at the right time, in the right location, and make a profit. It’s a win-win!
Does this option sound like it will make your life easier? Then buying shipping containers is the perfect solution for you.
On the other hand, if investing in containers is too pricey, you can lease out equipment for one-way moves quickly and easily using the Container xChange leasing platform. Find out more about leasing containers on xChange now.
Even though reefers are strong and sturdy, they’ve got a lot more moving parts than standard containers. This includes the genset, fans and insulation. These special units also run on electricity, so they’re naturally more expensive to use and maintain than standard containers. And if anything breaks, there’s a lot at stake, including cargo getting spoilt.
If you invest in good quality reefers, you’ll get an excellent return on your investment. Why? They’re designed to last a minimum of 15-20 years if well looked after. Owning quality reefers means shipping cargo safely without worrying about constant mechanical failures.
It’s easy to see why it’s important to get your reefers from trusted and reputable sources that won’t sell you sub-par equipment.
Of course, even with good-quality reefers, you can expect to shell out more on repairs and maintenance than with standard containers. It’s just part of the deal. Take this into account when considering buying your own fleet.
So what can you do to ease the burden of reefer repairs, as well as protect yourself against unexpected container damages and loss? Let’s find out in the next section.
Ready to find quality reefer containers for your shipping needs? Here are just some of the benefits you’ll enjoy as a member of Container xChange.
At xChange, we give you the best of both worlds — reliable suppliers and quality containers. We understand the importance of trust in a volatile industry like ours, and that’s why we’re strict about our vetting process. This only increases the trust factor among members, allowing you to create strong partnerships that stand the test of time.
You might be wondering, ‘Are my transactions safe?’. With the xChange Wallet, the answer is ‘100%’. With us, you have only one payment partner to deal with. All payments are credited in real time, and you can check your credits and charges on the platform any time you like.
We’re a completely neutral and transparent platform. All prices are stated upfront and we don’t take any commission on deals. So you can rest assured, the prices you decide on are the prices you’ll pay – no hidden fees, no nasty surprises!
So what’s next? Click the banner below to set up your free demo of our platform. One of our friendly experts will give you a sneak peek of how xChange works, and answer all of your burning questions. At last, find reefer sales that fit your budget, from reliable partners today.
Standard dry containers are used to transport dry cargo like paper, clothing, electronics and grains. On the other hand, reefers, or refrigerated containers have special cooling equipment and are used to transport temperature-sensitive goods like meat and medication.
Reefer containers blow cold air from the refrigeration unit through vents at the bottom of the container, all the way to the back doors. The warm air at the top of the container flows back to the refrigeration unit over the cargo, where it is cooled down.
For more container genset for saleinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
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