Reefer Containers for Temperature-Controlled Storage and Transport

Reefer containers provide an insulated, transportable environment for goods that must remain within a defined temperature range. CHV supplies new units in 10-, 20- and 40-ft sizes for commercial, industrial and logistics applications—from compact local storage to larger international transport requirements.

The correct model depends on more than capacity alone. Required temperature, loading pattern, access, available power, installation location and the duration of use all influence the appropriate container and refrigeration system.

The 10-ft model offers a compact footprint, 5.27 m² of floor area and 12.16 m³ of capacity for up to four standard Euro pallets. The 20-ft reefer is the versatile middle option, providing 12.27 m² of floor area and 28.35 m³ of capacity for up to ten standard Euro pallets. The high-cube 40-ft model provides 26.34 m² of floor area and 68.47 m³ of capacity for up to 22 standard Euro pallets.

All three sizes retain the robust ISO-container structure and valid CSC approval required for international transport. Internal dimensions and usable capacity vary with the exact construction and refrigeration machinery; CHV confirms the applicable unit specification when preparing the offer.

The available operating range depends on the installed refrigeration system and the intended application. Most units use Thermo King equipment. Across the current product family, applications from approximately −40 °C to +45 °C can be supported, while the exact capability is confirmed for the selected unit.

This avoids treating chilled storage, frozen storage and more demanding low-temperature applications as interchangeable. CHV can help match the refrigeration system to the required setpoint, ambient conditions, loading cycle and planned operating location.

The insulated container body is designed to reduce temperature loss, while the stainless-steel interior and aluminium airflow floor provide a durable surface for regular loading and cleaning. Integrated drainage supports practical maintenance, and air circulation beneath the load helps the refrigeration system distribute conditioned air through the container.

This construction supports hygienic storage processes for food, catering and other temperature-sensitive goods. Any HACCP compliance remains part of the operator’s handling, monitoring and documentation process rather than a stand-alone container certification.

Standard reefer equipment includes energy-efficient interior lighting, an internal emergency door release, alarm activation, beacon and siren, a fresh-air valve, thermal curtains, a fixed loading ramp, an easy-opening locking door, a built-in data logger and a control panel with operating display. Alternative insulated cargo-door arrangements are available where the loading process requires them.

Together, these features support safer access, clear operating control and practical loading. CHV can clarify the supplied door arrangement and site setup for the selected unit.

Reefer containers require a suitable 380/440 V three-phase electrical supply and sufficient ventilation around the refrigeration machinery. The current standard equipment includes an 18 m high-capacity cable with a five-pin 32 A connection. Cable routing, protective equipment, available connection capacity and the intended position of the container should be checked before delivery.

CHV can coordinate the relevant operating requirements with the customer so that the container, power connection and site conditions form a workable system.

Purchase is generally appropriate for permanent or recurring temperature-controlled storage and transport. For temporary demand, seasonal peaks, events or project-based requirements, a reefer from the CHV rental fleet may be the more practical route.