Refrigerated Shipping Containers in Derbyshire: Essential Solutions for Temperature-Sensitive Cargo
Acorn Containers specialises in supplying new and used 20ft and 40ft refrigerated shipping containers, commonly known as 'reefers'. We provide these units for the secure and efficient transportation and storage of goods requiring precise temperature control. Our extensive network across the UK allows us to maintain a consistently updated stock, meeting the diverse and evolving needs of our business clients. Whether your operations are based in Derbyshire or elsewhere in the country, we offer reliable refrigerated container solutions. Contact us directly for immediate availability and pricing information.
Our reefer containers serve a broad spectrum of industries, including food production, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals, providing critical temperature management to preserve product quality and integrity. We offer both new and pre-owned units, enabling businesses to select the optimal balance of quality, performance, and cost-effectiveness. For a detailed discussion regarding your specific requirements or to request further information, reach our team on 0330 027 1420 or via email at
Advantages of Utilising Refrigerated Containers
Refrigerated containers offer significant advantages for businesses managing perishable or temperature-sensitive commodities. These units create a strictly climate-controlled environment, safeguarding your products from spoilage or degradation during transit or storage. This capability proves particularly critical for sectors like pharmaceuticals, where maintaining a specific, narrow temperature range is fundamental to ensuring product efficacy and compliance.
The benefits extend beyond precise temperature regulation. Our reefer containers feature robust construction engineered to endure the demands of international shipping and rigorous operational use, ensuring your goods arrive securely and in optimum condition. They provide a wind and waterproof seal, incorporate advanced locking mechanisms for enhanced security, and feature heavy-duty flooring for superior durability. This commitment to high-quality construction delivers a reliable and cost-effective solution for your logistical requirements. Gain further insight into the benefits of refrigerated containers by consulting our comprehensive guide on Choosing the Right Refrigerated Container.
Understanding Refrigerated Container Specifications
Selecting the appropriate refrigerated container requires understanding the standard specifications. The following tables detail the typical dimensions and capacities for 20ft and 40ft reefer units. These specifications guide businesses in determining the container size best suited to their cargo volume and operational needs.
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 listed provide general guidance. For precise details relevant to your specific application or for any further assistance, please contact our team directly. We provide personalised support and answer all your questions to ensure you find the ideal solution.
Key Features of Acorn Containers Reefers
- Weatherproof Construction: Our containers feature wind and waterproof seals, providing optimal protection for your goods against environmental elements.
- Compliance: Full adherence to all relevant international shipping standards ensures smooth and hassle-free transportation across global networks.
- Enhanced Security: Robust and secure locking systems deter unauthorised access and maintain the integrity of your valuable cargo throughout its journey or storage period.
- Durable Flooring: Heavy-duty flooring is designed to withstand the weight and demands of various cargo types, ensuring longevity and reliability.
- Precise Temperature Control: Our units offer meticulously maintained, precise temperature-controlled environments, crucial for the safety and quality of sensitive cargo. Understand more about our temperature control systems by reading our article on Temperature Control in Shipping Containers.
Refrigerated Container Solutions in Derbyshire
Acorn Containers delivers expert reefer services throughout Derbyshire, providing a comprehensive range of solutions for businesses of all sizes operating within the county. Whether your requirement involves a single 20ft reefer for smaller volume needs or multiple 40ft units to support large-scale operations, our inventory and expertise meet your specific demands. We offer various container options in Derbyshire, catering to diverse commercial and industrial applications, including:
- General Purpose Cargo Containers for Sale and Hire in Derbyshire
- 20ft Containers in Derbyshire
- 40ft Containers in Derbyshire
- Refrigerated Containers (Reefers) in Derbyshire
- Flat Rack Containers in Derbyshire
- HIAB Delivery Services in Derbyshire
- Open Top Containers in Derbyshire
Our containers support various sectors and specific needs within Derbyshire, including:
- Community and Sports Clubs in Derbyshire
- Construction Sites in Derbyshire
- Farming Operations in Derbyshire
- Local Councils in Derbyshire
- Educational Centres and Institutions in Derbyshire
- NHS Facilities in Derbyshire
- Self-Storage Businesses in Derbyshire
We commit to achieving complete customer satisfaction. We provide exceptional service throughout your engagement with Acorn Containers, ensuring a seamless and efficient process from initial enquiry to final delivery and setup. Contact us today to discuss your refrigerated container requirements in Derbyshire and explore how we can provide the ideal solution for your business.
Frequently Asked Questions About Refrigerated Containers
What temperature range can a refrigerated container maintain?
Refrigerated containers, or reefers, typically maintain temperatures ranging from -25°C to +25°C. The exact range can vary slightly depending on the specific unit and its refrigeration machinery. This wide range allows for the transportation or storage of various sensitive goods, from frozen foods and pharmaceuticals to chemicals and perishable items.
Are refrigerated containers suitable for pharmaceutical storage?
Yes, refrigerated containers are highly suitable for pharmaceutical storage. They provide the precise, stable temperature control necessary to maintain the efficacy and integrity of sensitive medications and biological products, complying with strict industry regulations.
What power source do refrigerated containers require?
Refrigerated containers require a consistent source of electrical power to operate their refrigeration units. This is typically a standard 3-phase power supply. When used for transportation, they connect to a power source on ships, trucks, or at ports. For static storage, they require a suitable mains electricity connection.
Can I buy or hire used refrigerated containers?
Yes, Acorn Containers offers both new and used refrigerated containers for sale and hire. Used reefers undergo thorough inspection and maintenance to ensure they meet operational standards for temperature control and structural integrity, offering a cost-effective solution for many business needs.
What is the difference between a standard shipping container and a reefer container?
A standard shipping container is a dry box used for transporting non-perishable goods. A reefer container, however, is specifically designed with insulation and a refrigeration unit to control internal temperature, making it suitable for transporting or storing temperature-sensitive cargo.
How are refrigerated containers transported?
Refrigerated containers are transported using the same intermodal logistics as standard shipping containers. They can be carried by cargo ships, trains, and trucks. During transport, they are either connected to a power source provided by the carrier or, in some cases, use a clip-on generator for continuous refrigeration.
How do I ensure the correct temperature is maintained?
Modern reefer containers feature advanced control systems allowing precise temperature setting and monitoring. Shippers and operators regularly monitor the temperature readings to ensure the required conditions are maintained throughout the journey or storage period. Pre-trip inspections and proper loading procedures also play a vital role.
What maintenance do refrigerated containers require?
Refrigerated containers require regular maintenance, particularly for their refrigeration units. This includes checking refrigerant levels, inspecting electrical components, cleaning condenser coils, and verifying the calibration of temperature sensors and control systems. Proper maintenance ensures reliable operation and extends the container's lifespan.
Are refrigerated containers insulated?
Yes, refrigerated containers are highly insulated. Their walls, roof, and floor incorporate insulating materials to minimise heat transfer between the inside and outside environments. This insulation is crucial for the efficiency of the refrigeration unit and for maintaining stable internal temperatures.
What types of goods are typically transported in refrigerated containers?
A wide variety of temperature-sensitive goods are transported in reefers, including fresh and frozen food products (fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood), dairy products, pharmaceuticals, flowers, chemicals, and films. Any product requiring a controlled climate to prevent spoilage or degradation relies on refrigerated containers.