Refrigerated Shipping Containers: Your Comprehensive Guide to Reefers in Brent
Acorn Containers provides a comprehensive range of new and used 20ft and 40ft refrigerated shipping containers, commonly known as reefers. These specialised units offer secure transport and storage for a wide variety of temperature-sensitive goods. We maintain extensive stock, frequently updated to align with the diverse and evolving requirements of our UK client base. Availability can fluctuate; for precise information on current stock levels and options tailored to your needs, we encourage direct contact.
Reefers play a crucial role across numerous industries, particularly within the food, pharmaceutical, and chemical sectors. For businesses operating in these areas, maintaining precise, consistent temperature control is not merely beneficial but often paramount to preserving product quality, integrity, efficacy, and compliance with regulatory standards. Whether your operations demand the peak performance offered by new containers or the exceptional value provided by pre-owned options, Acorn Containers delivers robust solutions. We facilitate reliable temperature management for your sensitive cargo, ensuring your goods arrive or are stored under optimal conditions. To explore your specific operational requirements and receive expert, tailored advice, contact our dedicated team directly. You can reach us by phone on 0330 027 1420 or via email at
Understanding 20ft Refrigerated Container Specifications
Our 20ft refrigerated containers present a versatile and highly functional solution for businesses requiring controlled-temperature transport or storage of a significant volume of goods. These units balance capacity with manageable dimensions, making them highly adaptable for various logistical scenarios. The following table details the key specifications and measurements for a standard 20ft reefer:
| 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 |
While the 20ft container offers substantial capacity suitable for a wide array of business needs, operations requiring the handling of even larger volumes of temperature-sensitive goods may find the increased storage space provided by our 40ft options more beneficial. These larger units retain the same high standards of temperature regulation and reliability inherent in our entire reefer range.
20ft & 40ft Refrigerated Containers: A Detailed Comparison
Selecting the appropriate size of refrigerated container, whether a 20ft or a 40ft unit, is a critical decision that directly impacts operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This choice fundamentally depends on your specific cargo volume requirements and the logistical demands of your transportation or storage strategy. The 20ft reefer provides excellent maneuverability and is particularly well-suited for smaller to medium-sized shipments, or for sites where space is at a premium. Its compact footprint simplifies handling and placement. Conversely, the 40ft reefer delivers significantly greater internal volume, making it the ideal choice for businesses managing large volumes of goods or requiring extensive storage capacity at a single location. This increased size translates directly into enhanced efficiency for large-scale operations. To gain deeper insights into which size aligns best with your particular operational needs and constraints, we provide dedicated information resources. You can find more detailed information on the characteristics and applications of each size on our specific pages: 20ft containers in Brent and 40ft containers in Brent. Reviewing these resources will assist you in making an informed decision based on your specific business context.
40ft Refrigerated Container Specifications
Our 40ft refrigerated containers are engineered to provide substantial capacity, making them indispensable assets for large-scale transportation and storage operations involving temperature-sensitive goods. These units offer maximum volume while ensuring precise environmental control necessary for preserving cargo integrity over extended periods. Review the detailed specifications below to understand the capabilities of a standard 40ft reefer:
| 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 significant internal volume of the 40ft reefer makes it an efficient solution for consolidating large quantities of temperature-controlled cargo, reducing the need for multiple smaller units and optimising logistical processes. Businesses with substantial inventory or high-volume distribution needs often find the 40ft container to be the most cost-effective and practical choice.
Key Features of Acorn Containers Reefers
All refrigerated containers supplied by Acorn Containers are manufactured and maintained to exacting industry standards. This commitment ensures they deliver reliable performance and durable service under demanding conditions. We equip our reefers with features designed to maximise usability, security, and the integrity of your cargo throughout its journey or storage period. Key features that define the quality and functionality of our refrigerated containers include:
- Robust Construction: Engineered to withstand the rigors of international shipping and long-term outdoor storage, our containers are fully wind and waterproof, providing ultimate protection against environmental elements.
- International Compliance: Each unit meets or exceeds all relevant international shipping standards, including ISO requirements. This compliance guarantees seamless integration into global logistics networks and facilitates smooth transportation across borders.
- Enhanced Security: Protecting valuable temperature-sensitive cargo is paramount. Our reefers feature secure locking systems providing a high level of defence against unauthorised access and theft, ensuring your goods remain safe.
- Durable Flooring: The interior flooring is constructed from heavy-duty materials, specifically designed to support significant weight loads from various types of cargo and handling equipment, ensuring long-term structural integrity.
- Precise Temperature Control: The core function of a reefer is precise temperature management. Our units are equipped with advanced refrigeration machinery capable of maintaining consistently accurate internal temperatures. This is vital for preserving the quality and efficacy of sensitive cargo, ranging from frozen foods to pharmaceuticals, across a wide range of required temperatures.
- Advanced Monitoring Capabilities: Many of our reefers include or can be equipped with sophisticated temperature monitoring and data logging systems. These systems allow for continuous tracking and recording of internal conditions, providing essential documentation for compliance and quality assurance purposes.
- Efficient Insulation: High-quality insulation is critical for maintaining stable internal temperatures and optimising the efficiency of the refrigeration unit. Our containers feature superior insulation to minimise temperature fluctuations and reduce energy consumption.
While the specifications provided offer a comprehensive overview, it is important to recognise that specific details can vary between individual units, particularly with used containers or those from different manufacturing batches. For this reason, we strongly recommend contacting us directly for precise measurements and detailed specifications of any unit you are considering. This ensures you receive a container perfectly matched to your specific operational requirements and cargo characteristics, eliminating potential discrepancies and guaranteeing satisfaction.
Reefers in Brent: Your Local Solution
For businesses located within or operating in the Brent area, Acorn Containers delivers a convenient and highly reliable local source for high-quality refrigerated containers. We understand the unique logistical and operational needs of businesses in this locality and offer a comprehensive selection of reefers to meet a wide array of requirements, available for both sale and hire. Accessing temperature-controlled storage or transport solutions in Brent is straightforward with our local expertise and readily available stock. We invite you to explore our range of container types and services specifically available to businesses in Brent. This includes not only refrigerated units but also other container solutions that might complement your operations. Our local offerings include Cargo Containers for Sale or Hire in Brent, Reefers in Brent (this page), and specialised units such as Flat Racks in Brent, HIAB Delivery services in Brent, and Open Top Containers in Brent. Beyond specific container types, we also cater to the unique needs of various sectors within the Brent community, providing tailored container solutions for Community & Sports Clubs in Brent, Construction Sites in Brent, Farming operations in Brent, Local Councils in Brent, Educational Centres of Learning in Brent, NHS facilities in Brent, and Self Storage Businesses in Brent. Our aim is to be your single point of contact for all container requirements in the Brent area, providing expert advice and prompt service.
To obtain a personalised quotation for your specific refrigerated container needs or to discuss your requirements in greater detail, we encourage you to utilise our convenient online quote form. Alternatively, you can speak directly with one of our experienced team members by calling us on 0330 027 1420. We are ready to assist you in finding the ideal refrigerated container solution for your business in Brent.
Frequently Asked Questions about Refrigerated Containers (Reefers)
What is a refrigerated shipping container or reefer?
A refrigerated shipping container, or reefer, is an insulated intermodal freight container equipped with a refrigeration unit. This unit maintains a consistent, controlled temperature environment within the container, essential for transporting or storing temperature-sensitive goods like food, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals.
What temperature range can reefers maintain?
Reefers can typically maintain temperatures ranging from approximately -25°C to +25°C (-13°F to +77°F). The exact range can vary slightly depending on the specific model and manufacturer of the refrigeration unit, but they offer precise control within this broad spectrum.
Are new or used reefers better for my business?
The choice between new and used reefers depends on your budget, intended use, and required performance level. New reefers offer optimal performance, reliability, and longevity, ideal for critical international shipping or long-term storage. Used reefers, while potentially showing signs of wear, are a more cost-effective option for less demanding applications or storage needs, providing excellent value when properly maintained.
How are refrigerated containers powered?
Refrigerated containers require an external power source to operate their refrigeration unit. During transit on ships, they connect to the vessel's power supply. On land, they can be powered by generators (gensets), either attached to the container or chassis, or connected to a suitable electrical grid connection at a depot or facility.
Can reefers be used for storage as well as transport?
Absolutely. Refrigerated containers are widely used for static temperature-controlled storage. Businesses across various sectors utilise them on-site to store goods requiring precise temperature conditions, offering a flexible and often more cost-effective alternative to traditional cold storage facilities.
How do I get a quote for a reefer in Brent?
Obtaining a quote for a reefer in Brent is straightforward with Acorn Containers. You can use our easy online quote form, providing details about your requirements, or contact our team directly by calling 0330 027 1420 or emailing
What maintenance do reefers require?
Reefers require regular maintenance to ensure their refrigeration units function correctly and efficiently. This includes routine checks of the machinery, refrigerant levels, electrical systems, and insulation. Proper maintenance is crucial for reliable temperature control and extending the lifespan of the unit.
What types of goods are typically transported in reefers?
Reefers transport a wide variety of temperature-sensitive goods. This includes perishable food items (fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, seafood), pharmaceuticals (vaccines, medications), chemicals, flowers, and other products where temperature control is critical to prevent spoilage or degradation.
What is the internal height of a reefer?
The internal height of a reefer is generally slightly less than a standard dry container due to the insulation and the presence of the refrigeration unit and airflow system. For a standard 20ft or 40ft reefer, the internal height to the load line is typically around 7' 10 7/32" (2.393 m).
Can I hire or buy reefers from Acorn Containers in Brent?
Yes, Acorn Containers offers both hire and purchase options for refrigerated containers in the Brent area. We provide flexible solutions to meet both short-term and long-term needs, whether you require a reefer for a single shipment, seasonal storage, or permanent operational infrastructure.