Refrigerated Container Buying Guide: Reefer Sizes, Brands and Power

A refrigerated container, or reefer, gives you walk-in cold storage anywhere you have the right power supply. Restaurants, farms, butchers, caterers and pharmacies all use them. Here is what to consider before you buy.

Choose the right size

10ft reefers: compact cold storage for cafes, small farms and events. See our 10ft freezer reefer.
20ft reefers: the most popular size for restaurants and food businesses.
40ft high cube reefers: about 2,380 cu ft of cold space for distributors and large farms.

Temperature range

Most reefers run from about -25°C to +25°C, so one unit can work as a cooler or freezer. Deep-freeze models reach -40°C for ice cream, seafood and pharmaceuticals.

Refrigeration brands

Thermo King, Carrier and Daikin are the three main brands. All are reliable and widely serviced, so parts and technicians are easy to find. Browse all refrigerated containers to compare.

Power requirements

Most reefers need a three-phase supply (around 380 to 460V). Check your site’s power before ordering, or plan for a generator. Some smaller units and split-AC containers run on standard power.

New, used or non-working?

New reefers come with compressor coverage and the longest life.
Used working reefers are tested and offer big savings.
Non-working reefers have a dead refrigeration unit but keep their thick insulation, which makes them a low-cost insulated store. Also see our insulated containers.

Need help choosing? request a quote with what you need to store and your power supply, or read our shipping container FAQs.

Frequently asked questions

What power does a refrigerated container need?

Most reefers need a three-phase supply of around 380 to 460V. Check your site power or plan for a generator.

Can a reefer be used as a freezer?

Yes. Most reefers run from about -25°C to +25°C, so they can work as a cooler or a freezer.

What is a non-working reefer?

It is a refrigerated container whose cooling unit no longer works. It is sold cheaply as insulated storage.

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Victor Davila

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