Refrigerated Shipping Containers: The Ultimate Guide to Reefers in Fulham
Acorn Containers specialises in providing new and used 20ft and 40ft refrigerated shipping containers, widely recognised as reefers. These units offer a reliable and efficient solution for the transportation and secure storage of temperature-sensitive goods.
We maintain an extensive inventory, regularly updated to address diverse business needs, ensuring swift availability across the UK. For immediate information on stock levels and current pricing, please contact us directly.
Acorn Containers supplies both new and pre-owned reefers, guaranteeing consistent performance and precise temperature regulation. This makes our containers ideally suited for various sectors, including the food and pharmaceutical industries. Our commitment to quality underpins all our offerings, including all containers in Fulham and the surrounding region, ensuring you receive only high-specification units.
Our reefers in Fulham deliver a dependable solution for businesses requiring secure, temperature-controlled transport and storage. To discuss your specific requirements or request further details, call us on 0330 027 1420 or email
Detailed Specifications: 20ft Refrigerated Containers
Our 20ft refrigerated containers provide a practical option for numerous logistical applications. The following table outlines the key specifications. Please consider these measurements as guidelines; contact us for precise details tailored to your specific operational needs.
| 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 |
Detailed Specifications: 40ft Refrigerated Containers
For requirements demanding greater capacity, our 40ft refrigerated containers offer significantly larger internal volume. The specifications below provide details on dimensions and weight limits. As with our 20ft units, please contact us for precise specifications tailored to your exact needs. Interested in 40ft containers in Fulham? We encourage you to get in touch today.
| 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 |
Key Features and Benefits of Refrigerated Containers
Our refrigerated containers are engineered for robust durability, enhanced security, and precise environmental control. Key features include:
- Wind and waterproof construction providing optimal protection for sensitive cargo.
- Full compliance with all relevant international shipping standards, ensuring global compatibility.
- Robust, secure locking systems designed to prevent unauthorised access and deter theft.
- Heavy-duty flooring capable of supporting substantial weight loads, accommodating various cargo types.
- Precisely temperature-controlled environments to consistently maintain the required conditions for sensitive goods, preserving their integrity.
These features, combined with our unwavering commitment to customer service and quality, position Acorn Containers as a leading provider of refrigerated shipping containers. Require 20ft containers in Fulham? We offer comprehensive solutions.
Applications for Refrigerated Containers in Business
Refrigerated containers serve a critical function across a diverse range of industries where maintaining specific temperatures is essential. Their versatility makes them indispensable for businesses involved in the transport and storage of perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and other climate-sensitive materials. The controlled internal environment ensures product quality and compliance with regulatory standards.
Businesses in the food and beverage sector frequently utilise reefers for transporting fresh produce, frozen foods, dairy products, and beverages, ensuring they arrive at their destination in optimal condition. Pharmaceutical companies rely on these containers to maintain the efficacy and safety of temperature-sensitive medications and vaccines during transit and storage.
Beyond traditional shipping, reefers provide valuable temporary or long-term cold storage solutions. Event organisers use them for catering supplies, while businesses undergoing renovations or experiencing increased demand can deploy them for additional cold storage capacity. Research institutions and laboratories also utilise reefers for storing sensitive samples and materials under controlled conditions.
The adaptability of refrigerated containers extends to various business operations. For example, while not directly refrigerated, businesses needing Flat Rack containers in Fulham for oversized cargo, or Open Top containers in Fulham for easy loading, often operate alongside those requiring temperature control. Similarly, businesses requiring Hiab delivery in Fulham for container placement benefit from efficient logistics, regardless of the container type.
Specific sectors in Fulham and beyond that benefit significantly from refrigerated container solutions include:
- Food manufacturers and distributors maintaining cold chain integrity.
- Pharmaceutical companies ensuring product stability.
- Catering companies requiring temporary cold storage for events.
- Retailers needing overflow cold storage during peak seasons.
- Laboratories storing samples and reagents.
- Agricultural businesses preserving produce freshness.
Acorn Containers understands the unique requirements of these sectors and offers tailored reefer solutions to meet their operational needs effectively.
Choosing the Right Refrigerated Container
Selecting the appropriate refrigerated container necessitates considering several factors to ensure it aligns with your specific business requirements. Key considerations include the type of goods being transported or stored, the required temperature range, the duration of use, and the logistical constraints of your site or route.
The volume and weight of your cargo will dictate whether a 20ft or 40ft unit is more suitable. For smaller or more frequent shipments, a 20ft reefer offers greater flexibility and potentially lower operational costs. For larger volumes or bulk storage, the 40ft unit provides significantly more capacity.
Consider the power requirements for the refrigeration unit. Reefers require a consistent power supply, typically 3-phase electricity. Ensure your site or transport method can provide the necessary power. For remote locations or during transit without a direct power source, generator sets (gensets) are available to maintain temperature control.
The condition of the container, whether new or used, also plays a role. New containers offer the latest technology and maximum lifespan, ideal for long-term use or critical applications. Used containers provide a cost-effective alternative for shorter-term needs or less stringent requirements, provided they are in good working order and have been properly maintained.
Acorn Containers provides expert guidance to help you navigate these choices. We assess your specific cargo, temperature needs, and logistical considerations to recommend the most suitable refrigerated container solution. Our team ensures the container meets all necessary certifications for international transport if required.
Maintenance and Operation of Refrigerated Containers
Proper maintenance and operation are crucial for ensuring the reliable performance of refrigerated containers and protecting your valuable cargo. Regular checks and adherence to operating procedures minimise the risk of temperature deviations and equipment failure.
Before loading, always pre-cool the container to the required temperature. This prevents the refrigeration unit from working excessively hard to cool warm cargo, saving energy and reducing wear and tear. Ensure the cargo is loaded correctly, allowing sufficient airflow around and through the load. Blocking vents or overpacking can impede air circulation, leading to temperature inconsistencies.
Monitor the temperature regularly throughout transit or storage. Modern reefers feature data loggers that record temperature information, providing a valuable record for quality control and compliance. Be aware of alarm indicators on the refrigeration unit, which signal potential issues requiring immediate attention.
Routine maintenance should include checks of the refrigeration unit's components, such as the compressor, condenser, and evaporator. Cleanliness is also vital; keep the interior clean to prevent contamination and ensure efficient operation. Regularly inspect the container structure for any damage that could compromise its integrity or insulation.
Businesses in sectors like community sports clubs in Fulham or educational centres of learning in Fulham might not typically require reefers, but understanding their operational needs highlights the diverse applications of shipping containers. Similarly, while construction sites in Fulham and farming in Fulham might lean towards standard or modified containers, the principles of maintenance and suitability remain relevant across all container types supplied by Acorn Containers, including those for local council in Fulham, NHS in Fulham, or self-storage businesses in Fulham.
Acorn Containers ensures all our refrigerated units undergo thorough checks before delivery, providing you with a reliable and well-maintained solution from the outset. We offer guidance on operational best practices to help you maximise the efficiency and performance of your reefer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Refrigerated Containers
What is a refrigerated shipping container or reefer?
A refrigerated shipping container, or reefer, is a type of intermodal container equipped with a refrigeration unit. It maintains a consistent temperature within the container, essential for transporting or storing temperature-sensitive goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
What temperature range can reefers maintain?
Modern refrigerated containers can typically maintain temperatures ranging from approximately -25°C to +25°C. The exact range can vary slightly depending on the specific refrigeration unit installed and the container's specifications.
Do refrigerated containers require a power supply?
Yes, refrigerated containers require a continuous power supply to operate the refrigeration unit. This is typically a 3-phase electrical connection. For transport where a direct power source is unavailable, a portable generator set (genset) is used.
Are reefers suitable for long-term storage?
Absolutely. While designed for transport, refrigerated containers are also widely used as reliable, long-term cold storage solutions for businesses needing controlled temperature environments on their premises.
What is the difference between a new and used reefer?
New reefers come directly from the manufacturer with the latest technology and full lifespan. Used reefers have been previously operated but are inspected, maintained, and certified to ensure they are in good working condition and suitable for continued use, often providing a more cost-effective option.
How do I determine the correct size of refrigerated container for my needs?
The correct size depends on the volume and type of goods you need to transport or store. 20ft reefers are suitable for smaller volumes, while 40ft reefers offer significantly more capacity for larger loads. Consider your typical cargo volume and any potential for future growth when making your decision.
Can refrigerated containers be used for heating?
Yes, most modern refrigerated containers are capable of both cooling and heating. This allows them to maintain a specific temperature above ambient conditions when necessary, protecting goods from freezing in cold environments.
Do reefers come with interior lighting?
Standard refrigerated containers are not typically fitted with interior lighting as standard. However, interior lighting can be added as a modification if required for easier loading and unloading.
What kind of security features do refrigerated containers have?
Reefers, like standard shipping containers, are built with robust steel construction and heavy-duty locking bars on the doors. Additional high-security locking mechanisms can be fitted to further enhance security and protect valuable cargo.
How quickly can Acorn Containers supply a reefer in Fulham?
Acorn Containers maintains a significant stock of refrigerated containers across the UK. Availability in Fulham depends on current stock levels and logistics, but we strive to provide prompt delivery. Contact us directly for the most accurate availability and delivery timeframe for your location.