A 40ft reefer container is a refrigerated shipping container designed to transport and store perishable goods at controlled temperatures. Whether you are in the food industry, pharmaceuticals, agriculture, or logistics, a 40ft reefer container offers reliable temperature regulation across long distances or in static storage situations. If you are considering a 40ft reefer container for sale, understanding its features, typical pricing, and specifications is essential to making the right investment.
This guide explains what a 40ft reefer container is, details its standard dimensions, outlines the key features, and provides a realistic overview of the 40ft reefer container price.
A 40ft reefer container is a refrigerated cargo container equipped with an integrated cooling unit. It maintains internal temperatures typically between minus twenty five degrees Celsius and plus twenty five degrees Celsius, allowing the safe transportation of temperature-sensitive goods.
Key characteristics include:
Standard length of forty feet with options for standard height or high cube versions
Integrated refrigeration unit powered externally by ships, trucks, or onsite generators
Insulated walls, floors, and ceilings to maintain internal climate
Suitable for transporting frozen foods, fruits, vegetables, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other sensitive products
The container can operate on a consistent power supply for continuous cooling or be adapted for short-term static storage at events, warehouses, or construction sites.
Understanding the 40ft reefer container dimensions is critical for planning storage space, transport logistics, and cargo loading.
Standard 40ft Reefer Container Dimensions:
External Dimensions
Length: 12.192 meters
Width: 2.438 meters
Height: 2.591 meters
Internal Dimensions
Length: 11.58 meters
Width: 2.29 meters
Height: 2.24 meters
Door Opening Dimensions
Width: 2.29 meters
Height: 2.26 meters
Maximum Gross Weight
Approximately 34,000 kilograms
Tare Weight
Approximately 4,800 kilograms
Payload Capacity
Approximately 29,200 kilograms
Internal Volume
Approximately 67 cubic meters
High Cube 40ft Reefer Container Dimensions:
External height increased to 2.896 meters
Internal height increased to approximately 2.59 meters
Provides additional cubic capacity for lightweight, high-volume cargo
These dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and model year.
Temperature Control
Accurate internal temperature management from deep freezing to controlled ambient storage.
Integrated Refrigeration Unit
Manufacturers such as Carrier, Thermo King, or Daikin produce reliable refrigeration units with digital controls, alarms, and monitoring capabilities.
Insulation
Walls, roof, and floor constructed with polyurethane or similar insulation materials to minimize thermal loss.
Energy Efficiency
Modern reefer containers include energy-saving modes, electronic temperature recording, and efficient compressors to reduce operational costs.
Ventilation and Airflow
Adjustable ventilation systems maintain air circulation and humidity control for specific cargo types like fruits and vegetables.
Durable Construction
Made with corrosion-resistant steel, aluminum, or fiberglass panels to withstand harsh marine and land environments.
Security
Heavy-duty locking systems and optional tracking solutions for enhanced cargo security during transport or storage.
Shipping and Logistics
Transporting frozen and chilled food products across continents and oceans.
Cold Storage Solutions
Temporary or permanent cold storage at events, remote sites, markets, or disaster relief operations.
Agriculture and Fisheries
Storage and transportation of fresh produce, seafood, meat, and dairy products.
Pharmaceuticals
Maintaining cold chains for vaccines, medicines, and biologically sensitive products.
Industrial and Chemical Storage
Temperature-sensitive industrial products requiring climate-controlled environments.
The 40ft reefer container price varies based on condition, age, manufacturer, refrigeration unit brand, and market demand.
Typical price ranges are:
New 40ft Reefer Container
Thirty five thousand to fifty thousand US dollars
Used 40ft Reefer Container
Ten thousand to twenty five thousand US dollars
High Cube 40ft Reefer Container
Approximately five percent to fifteen percent higher in cost compared to standard height units
Factors influencing the price include:
Brand and type of refrigeration unit
Refrigeration system running hours and service history
Physical condition of the container body and insulation
Certification and compliance for international shipping
Warranty availability for the container and refrigeration system
Delivery location and associated transportation costs
New containers offer full manufacturer warranties and the latest technology, while used containers provide significant cost savings but require careful inspection to ensure functionality.
Cooling System Condition
Inspect the refrigeration unit, verify recent maintenance, and check for any operational warnings or faults.
Insulation Integrity
Ensure the container maintains temperature properly without visible damage, moisture intrusion, or insulation degradation.
Physical Condition
Check for structural damage, corrosion, door sealing effectiveness, and proper locking mechanisms.
Electrical Compatibility
Confirm that the reefer operates on standard power inputs available at your intended usage site, typically 380 to 460 volts three-phase power.
Certification
Verify that the container holds valid certifications such as CSC (Container Safety Convention) if you intend to use it for international shipping.
Supplier Reliability
Work with suppliers who provide full specifications, service records, and warranty options, especially for used units.
A 40ft reefer container provides essential capabilities for transporting and storing temperature-sensitive goods across industries. Whether buying a new or used unit, understanding the container’s features, dimensions, and cost structure is critical to selecting the right solution for your needs.
When considering a 40ft reefer container for sale, focus on refrigeration system performance, insulation quality, structural integrity, and supplier reputation. Investing wisely ensures reliable cold chain management, regulatory compliance, and maximum value from your container asset.
As long as it has a consistent power source, it can maintain set temperatures indefinitely. With generator backup, it can sustain cooling during transit disruptions.
Yes. Although designed for refrigeration, reefer containers can also be used for secure, insulated dry storage when the cooling unit is turned off.
Typically around twenty nine thousand kilograms of cargo, depending on the cargo type and stacking method.
Modern units feature energy-saving technologies and automatic economy modes to reduce power consumption when conditions allow.
Yes. A suitably rated generator with the correct voltage and phase requirements can power a reefer container for mobile or remote operations.
For industries handling large cylindrical items, tunnel containers are essential for efficient logistics. These containers feature doors at both ends, allowing…
A lithium ion battery storage container is designed to provide secure, high-capacity power storage in a compact, mobile format. These containers…
In industries dealing with chemicals, flammable liquids, or reactive solids, hazmat shipping containers are crucial for safe transport. These containers are…
For businesses operating in offshore environments, DNV offshore containers for sale provide reliable, high-strength solutions for transporting equipment and materials safely.…
In today’s fast-moving logistics environment, custom made shipping boxes have become essential for businesses that handle specialized or fragile goods. These…
In recent years, house shipping containers have become a mainstream solution for affordable and durable housing. Their steel frameworks are inherently…