Refrigerated Shipping Containers Devon: A Business Guide
Acorn Containers specialises in sourcing and supplying new and used 20ft and 40ft refrigerated shipping containers, commonly known as reefers. These units are essential for the secure transport and storage of temperature-sensitive goods across the UK, including the Devon region. Our extensive network allows us to maintain and frequently update our stock, meeting diverse customer requirements effectively. For the most current availability information, we recommend contacting us directly.
Reefers serve a wide array of industries, particularly within the food and pharmaceutical sectors, providing critical temperature control capabilities. This ensures the integrity and safety of sensitive cargo throughout its journey or storage period. Whether your business requires a new container with the latest technology or a cost-effective pre-owned unit, Acorn Containers offers solutions tailored to specific operational needs. To discuss your requirements in detail or request further information, please contact our team at 0330 027 1420 or email
Choosing the Optimal Reefer Size: 20ft vs. 40ft
Selecting between a 20ft and a 40ft refrigerated container depends significantly on your specific cargo volume, logistical needs, and site constraints. Both sizes deliver reliable temperature control and secure storage environments, but their volumetric capacity differs substantially. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for making an informed decision that aligns with your business operations. Let's examine the typical specifications for each size.
20ft Refrigerated Container Specifications
The 20ft reefer provides a versatile solution suitable for smaller shipments or locations where space and maneuverability are key considerations. This size remains a popular choice across various applications requiring precise temperature management.
| 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 |
Businesses in Devon requiring a compact yet powerful temperature-controlled storage or transport unit often find the 20ft reefer meets their needs effectively. Learn more about our available 20ft refrigerated containers in Devon.
40ft Refrigerated Container Specifications
For businesses managing larger volumes of temperature-sensitive goods, the 40ft reefer offers substantially increased capacity. This size proves advantageous for operations requiring extensive storage space or transporting significant quantities of perishable or sensitive items.
| 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 40ft reefer provides a robust solution for businesses in Devon and beyond handling substantial cargo volumes requiring precise temperature control. Explore our range of 40ft refrigerated containers available in Devon.
Please note that while these specifications offer a general overview, minor variations can occur between units depending on the manufacturer and specific model. For precise details pertaining to a particular container, contacting our team directly provides the most accurate information.
Essential Features of Acorn Containers Reefers
Acorn Containers sources refrigerated units built to demanding international standards, incorporating key features vital for optimal performance, reliability, and cargo protection. These features ensure your goods remain secure and at the correct temperature throughout their journey or storage period.
- Wind and waterproof construction: Provides ultimate protection for sensitive cargo against environmental elements, ensuring contents remain dry and secure.
- Compliance with international shipping standards: Facilitates global transport and intermodal logistics, ensuring containers are suitable for worldwide movement.
- Secure locking systems: Offers enhanced security against unauthorised access or tampering, protecting valuable and sensitive goods.
- Heavy-duty flooring: Engineered to withstand the considerable weight and rigours of loading, unloading, and transporting heavy cargo.
- Precise temperature-controlled environments: Utilises advanced refrigeration technology to maintain narrow temperature ranges, critical for preventing spoilage or degradation of perishable or sensitive items.
These features collectively contribute to the reliability and effectiveness of our refrigerated container fleet, providing businesses with confidence in their temperature-controlled logistics and storage solutions.
Refrigerated Container Applications Across Industries in Devon
Refrigerated containers prove indispensable across a diverse range of sectors requiring controlled temperature environments. In Devon, various industries leverage reefers for critical operations. These include:
- Food Industry: Transporting and storing fresh produce, meat, dairy, frozen foods, and confectionery. Reefers maintain the cold chain, crucial for food safety and quality.
- Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare: Storing and transporting vaccines, medications, laboratory samples, and other temperature-sensitive medical supplies. Precise temperature control is non-negotiable in this sector.
- Chemical Industry: Handling certain chemicals, paints, and other substances that require stable temperatures to maintain their properties or prevent hazardous reactions.
- Horticulture and Floristry: Transporting flowers, plants, and other horticultural products that require cool temperatures to remain fresh and prevent wilting.
- Events and Catering: Providing temporary cold storage for food and beverages at outdoor events, festivals, or temporary catering setups.
- Research and Development: Storing sensitive research materials, samples, or equipment that require specific environmental conditions.
Acorn Containers supplies reefers suitable for all these applications and more, providing businesses in Devon with the necessary infrastructure for their temperature-controlled needs.
Acorn Containers: Your Partner for Reefers in Devon and the UK
Acorn Containers offers a comprehensive range of refrigerated containers for both sale and hire across the UK. We maintain a strong focus on serving clients in Devon, providing readily available solutions for local businesses. Our inventory includes both new and used refrigerated containers, catering to varying budgetary and operational requirements. Whether you need a reefer for a short-term project or a long-term storage solution, we offer flexible options.
In addition to refrigerated containers, we also provide a range of other container types essential for various business needs in Devon, including general purpose cargo containers for standard storage and transport, flat rack containers for oversized or heavy cargo, and open top containers for easy loading of tall items. Our delivery services across Devon are supported by HIAB-equipped vehicles, ensuring safe and efficient placement of your container.
We understand the unique requirements of various sectors within Devon. We regularly assist businesses in areas such as community and sports clubs requiring secure storage, construction sites needing robust site storage, farming operations requiring secure agricultural storage solutions, local councils with diverse storage and transport needs, educational centres requiring secure storage for equipment or archives, the NHS for critical storage needs, and self-storage businesses expanding their capacity.
Reefers in Devon represent a vital asset for many businesses. Contact us today for a detailed discussion of your specific requirements and how our refrigerated container solutions can support your operations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Refrigerated Containers
What temperature range can a refrigerated container maintain?
Refrigerated containers, or reefers, typically maintain temperatures ranging from approximately -25°C to +25°C (-13°F to +77°F). The precise range can vary slightly depending on the specific unit and its refrigeration unit model. This wide range allows for the transport and storage of frozen goods, chilled products, and items requiring ambient temperature control.
How are refrigerated containers powered?
Refrigerated containers require an external power source to operate their cooling (or heating) units. They typically connect to a three-phase power supply, commonly 440V/460V, 50Hz or 60Hz. During transport on ships, they connect to the vessel's power supply. For road or rail transport, or for static storage, they can be powered by a portable generator set (genset) or a fixed power hookup.
Can refrigerated containers be used for heating as well as cooling?
Yes, most modern refrigerated containers are equipped with the capability to both cool and heat the internal environment. This allows them to maintain a consistent temperature, regardless of external ambient conditions, which is crucial for protecting sensitive cargo like certain pharmaceuticals or chemicals that must remain within a specific temperature range.
What is the typical lifespan of a refrigerated container?
The structural lifespan of a well-maintained steel shipping container, including a reefer, can exceed 20-30 years. However, the sophisticated refrigeration unit typically has a shorter operational lifespan and may require more frequent maintenance or replacement compared to the container structure itself. Regular servicing ensures both the structure and the refrigeration unit remain in optimal working condition.
Are refrigerated containers suitable for long-term storage?
Absolutely. Refrigerated containers are frequently used for long-term, temperature-controlled storage. They provide a secure, weather-resistant, and precisely controlled environment ideal for storing perishable goods, sensitive materials, or excess inventory that requires specific temperature conditions outside of standard warehousing. Ensuring a reliable power supply is essential for continuous operation.
What maintenance do refrigerated containers require?
Refrigerated containers require regular maintenance to ensure reliable operation. This includes routine checks and servicing of the refrigeration unit, including inspecting components like compressors, condensers, evaporators, and fans. The container structure also needs periodic inspection for damage, door seals must be checked for integrity, and the power cable and plug require examination. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule is crucial.
How quickly can a refrigerated container reach the desired temperature?
The time it takes for a refrigerated container to reach a specific set temperature depends on several factors, including the starting temperature of the cargo, the external ambient temperature, the desired setpoint, and the efficiency of the refrigeration unit. While modern units are powerful, pre-cooling the container and loading cargo that is already at or near the desired temperature significantly reduces the pull-down time.
Can refrigerated containers be modified?
Yes, refrigerated containers can be modified, although modifications must be carefully considered to avoid compromising the thermal integrity and structural strength. Common modifications might include adding internal lighting, shelving, or different door types. Any modification affecting the insulation or structure should be undertaken by experienced professionals to ensure the container remains wind and waterproof and the refrigeration system operates efficiently.