Refrigerated Shipping Containers: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses in Bedford
Acorn Containers specialises in providing new and used 20ft and 40ft refrigerated shipping containers, commonly referred to as reefers. These units are essential for the safe and efficient transportation and storage of temperature-sensitive goods within the UK. Our extensive inventory undergoes frequent updates to ensure we meet the diverse and evolving needs of businesses across various sectors. Clients seeking the most current availability should contact us directly for real-time information.
Whether your requirement necessitates a new or pre-owned reefer unit, we deliver reliable, temperature-controlled solutions. These are indispensable for industries such as food distribution, pharmaceuticals, and any other sector managing sensitive cargo. Our containers are engineered for robust performance, designed to withstand the challenging conditions of shipping and storage, guaranteeing the integrity and safe arrival of your valuable goods. Businesses in the Bedford area can explore our specific range of Reefers in Bedford to identify the ideal solution tailored to their operational demands.
To initiate a discussion regarding your specific operational needs, request a detailed quotation, or obtain further technical information, please contact our expert team. You can reach us by telephone on 0330 027 1420 or via email at
Understanding Refrigerated Container Specifications
Selecting the correct refrigerated container necessitates a thorough understanding of its technical specifications. The following tables outline the typical operational parameters for both 20ft and 40ft reefer units. These details are critical for planning logistics, determining cargo capacity, and ensuring compliance with transportation regulations.
20ft Refrigerated Container Specifications
| Description | Imperial Measurements | Metric Measurements |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Payload | 62,391 lb | 28,300 kg |
| External Dimensions (LxWxH) | 20' x 8' x 8'6" | 6.096 x 2.438 x 2.591 m |
| Internal Volume | 1,165 cubic feet | 33 m3 |
| Door Opening Width | 7' 8 1/16" | 2.350 m |
| Door Opening Height | 7' 5 1/2" | 2.274 m |
| Internal Length | 19' 4 1/8" | 5.896 m |
| Internal Width | 7' 8 1/2" | 2.350 m |
| Internal Height (to load line) | 7' 10 7/32" | 2.393 m |
| Gross Weight | 67,197 lb | 30,480 kg |
40ft Refrigerated Container Specifications
| Description | Imperial Measurements | Metric Measurements |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Payload | 63,640 lb | 28,870 kg |
| External Dimensions (LxWxH) | 40' x 8' x 8'6" | 12.192 x 2.438 x 2.591 m |
| Internal Volume | 2,366 cubic feet | 67 m3 |
| Door Opening Width | 7' 8 1/8" | 2.340 m |
| Door Opening Height | 7' 5 1/2" | 2.274 m |
| Internal Length | 39' 5 11/16" | 12.032 m |
| Internal Width | 7' 8 1/2" | 2.350 m |
| Internal Height (to load line) | 7' 10 7/32" | 2.393 m |
| Gross Weight | 71,650 lb | 32,500 kg |
| Tare Weight | 8,010 lb | 3,630 kg |
The specifications detailed above represent typical values. For precise details pertaining to specific units or to discuss requirements tailored to your unique operational needs, please contact our sales team. We readily provide assistance with any questions you may have regarding our available containers for sale or hire in Bedford.
Key Features and Operational Benefits
Our refrigerated containers are specifically engineered to ensure optimal performance, reliability, and the secure preservation of temperature-sensitive cargo. Key operational features and benefits include:
- Wind and Waterproof Construction: These units feature robust construction designed to provide absolute protection for your goods against environmental elements throughout both transit and storage phases.
- International Shipping Standards Compliance: Each container fully complies with all relevant international shipping regulations and standards, facilitating seamless global transportation and eliminating potential logistical impediments.
- Robust Locking Systems: Integrated heavy-duty locking mechanisms offer superior security, effectively safeguarding your valuable cargo against unauthorised access or theft.
- Heavy-Duty Flooring: The internal flooring is constructed from durable materials capable of supporting substantial loads, ensuring structural integrity even with heavy or densely packed cargo.
- Precise Temperature Control: A core functionality is the ability to maintain a precise internal temperature. This is crucial for preventing spoilage, degradation, or damage to sensitive goods, ensuring they remain within their required temperature range from origin to destination. This capability is particularly critical for 20ft containers in Bedford and 40ft containers in Bedford utilised for perishable items.
Selecting the Optimal Reefer Container
Determining the most appropriate reefer container for your business operations depends significantly on the specific characteristics of your cargo and the volume requiring temperature-controlled management. Our inventory of 20ft and 40ft options addresses a diverse spectrum of operational requirements. 20ft reefers are typically well-suited for smaller consignments or scenarios where site space is constrained. Conversely, 40ft reefers offer substantially increased internal capacity, making them the preferred choice for larger volumes of temperature-sensitive goods. Businesses should carefully evaluate the dimensions, internal volume, and payload capacities detailed in the specifications tables to ascertain the most suitable unit for their logistical framework.
Should you require expert guidance in the selection process, our experienced team is readily available to assist. We provide informed support to help you choose between our available 20ft refrigerated containers in Bedford and 40ft refrigerated containers in Bedford, ensuring you acquire a solution that aligns perfectly with your business needs and operational scale.
Beyond Refrigerated Units: Exploring Our Comprehensive Container Portfolio
While refrigerated containers are a critical component of modern logistics, Acorn Containers offers a comprehensive portfolio designed to meet a wide array of storage and shipping demands. Beyond our reefer selection, we supply various other container types, including flat-racks, open tops, and numerous other specialised container configurations. We recognise that each business possesses unique storage and transportation challenges, and we are committed to providing adaptable and robust solutions.
Our diverse range of containers supports various industry applications. For instance, standard dry containers are ideal for general cargo. Open-top containers facilitate the loading of oversized items from above, while flat racks accommodate irregularly shaped or heavy machinery. Our expertise extends to providing solutions for specific sectors, including community sports clubs requiring secure storage, construction sites needing robust on-site facilities, and the farming industry utilising containers for diverse agricultural storage. We also serve local councils, educational centres, the NHS, and self-storage businesses, providing reliable and versatile container solutions tailored to their specific operational contexts.
Furthermore, we provide essential ancillary services such as HIAB delivery in Bedford, ensuring efficient and safe placement of your container units at your desired location. This end-to-end service capability underscores our commitment to providing comprehensive support for your container needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Refrigerated Containers
What is the primary function of a refrigerated shipping container?
A refrigerated shipping container, or reefer, is specifically designed to transport and store temperature-sensitive goods, maintaining a consistent, controlled internal temperature to preserve cargo integrity.
What temperature ranges can reefers maintain?
Reefer units typically maintain temperatures ranging from approximately -25°C to +25°C, allowing for the transport of both frozen and chilled goods.
Are new and used reefers equally reliable?
Both new and used reefers from reputable suppliers undergo rigorous inspection and maintenance. Used reefers provide a cost-effective alternative while still offering reliable temperature control, provided they are certified and well-maintained.
What types of goods require refrigerated containers?
Common cargo types include fresh and frozen food products, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, flowers, and other items that require specific temperature and humidity conditions.
How are reefers powered?
Reefers require an external power source to operate their refrigeration unit. During transit, they connect to a ship's power supply or use portable generators. On land, they typically connect to the main power grid.
What is the difference between a 20ft and 40ft reefer?
The primary difference is size and capacity. A 40ft reefer offers significantly more internal volume and payload capacity compared to a 20ft unit, suitable for larger shipments.
Can refrigerated containers be used for static storage?
Yes, reefers are frequently used for static, temperature-controlled storage on land, providing a flexible solution for businesses requiring on-site cold storage.
What maintenance is required for a reefer container?
Regular maintenance is essential, including checks of the refrigeration unit, temperature sensors, insulation, and overall structural integrity to ensure reliable performance.