Refrigerated Shipping Containers: Reefers Islington
Acorn Containers delivers an extensive selection of new and used 20ft and 40ft refrigerated shipping containers, widely recognised as reefers. These units provide secure and efficient solutions for the transportation and storage of goods requiring precise temperature control. Our established network across the UK ensures we maintain a consistently updated stockholding, effectively meeting the diverse requirements of our business clientele. For the most current information regarding the availability of our reefers in Islington and the surrounding locales, we encourage direct contact with our team.
Whether your operational needs necessitate new or pre-owned reefer units, we present reliable options meticulously engineered to uphold precise temperature parameters. This capability proves indispensable for various industries, including but not limited to food production, pharmaceuticals, and sectors managing other temperature-sensitive cargoes. Our refrigerated shipping containers for sale and hire in Islington undergo rigorous inspection and maintenance protocols, guaranteeing optimal functional performance.
To facilitate a detailed discussion concerning your specific requirements or to request further information regarding our Islington reefers, please connect with our specialist team. You can reach us by telephone on 0330 027 1420 or via email at
Understanding Refrigerated Container Technology
Refrigerated containers, or reefers, represent a critical component in global supply chains for perishable goods. These units integrate advanced cooling systems capable of maintaining internal temperatures across a broad range, typically from -25°C to +25°C or even wider. This temperature precision is paramount for preserving the integrity and shelf life of delicate cargo during transit and storage, regardless of external environmental conditions. The technology employed often includes sophisticated control systems allowing for precise temperature setting and monitoring, ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory requirements for sensitive products.
Beyond basic cooling, modern reefer technology often incorporates features such as humidity control and fresh air exchange capabilities. Humidity management is vital for preventing moisture damage to certain goods. Fresh air exchange ensures adequate ventilation, crucial for commodities that off-gas or require a specific atmospheric composition to remain fresh. These integrated systems provide a highly controlled internal environment, far exceeding the capabilities of standard insulated containers. Choosing the right reefer involves considering the specific temperature range, humidity requirements, and ventilation needs of the cargo.
Applications for Refrigerated Containers in Islington Businesses
Businesses operating within Islington and the wider London area leverage refrigerated containers for a multitude of applications. The food industry, encompassing restaurants, catering services, and retail food outlets, utilises reefers for storing chilled and frozen produce, meats, and dairy, ensuring food safety and reducing spoilage. Pharmaceutical companies and healthcare providers rely on reefers to maintain the cold chain for medicines, vaccines, and other temperature-sensitive medical supplies, adhering to strict regulatory guidelines.
Furthermore, events management companies often employ reefers for temporary cold storage at venues. Florists use them to preserve the freshness of flowers, extending their marketability. Chemical industries requiring temperature-controlled storage for certain compounds also find reefers invaluable. Essentially, any business handling products that degrade or become unsafe outside a specific temperature range can benefit significantly from incorporating refrigerated container solutions into their operations. Their portability and self-contained nature make them highly versatile for various business models and locations within Islington.
20ft Refrigerated Container Specifications
The 20ft refrigerated container offers a compact yet substantial solution for temperature-controlled storage and transport. Its dimensions make it suitable for sites with limited space or for shipments requiring a smaller volume. Below are typical specifications for a 20ft reefer unit. Please note that minor variations can occur depending on the manufacturer and specific model.
| 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 |
These specifications provide a general overview. For precise details pertaining to available units, consulting directly with our team ensures accuracy and relevance to your specific loading and site requirements.
40ft Refrigerated Container Specifications
The 40ft refrigerated container offers double the capacity of the 20ft unit, making it an excellent choice for businesses with larger volume requirements for temperature-controlled storage or transport. These containers are a standard in international shipping and provide extensive internal space. The following table outlines typical specifications for a 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 |
These dimensions highlight the significant capacity offered by the 40ft reefer, suitable for larger scale operations. As with 20ft units, confirming specific details with our team ensures the container meets your exact volumetric and weight requirements.
Key Features and Benefits of Acorn Containers' Reefers
Our refrigerated containers are manufactured and maintained to exacting standards, incorporating features designed for optimal performance, durability, and reliability in temperature-controlled environments. Choosing an Acorn container provides several distinct advantages for your business operations:
- Robust Construction: Our reefers feature wind and waterproof construction, providing superior protection for your valuable goods against environmental elements during both transit and static storage.
- International Compliance: Built and certified to meet stringent international shipping standards, our containers facilitate smooth and efficient transportation of temperature-sensitive cargo across global networks, minimising potential logistical hurdles.
- Enhanced Security: Each unit is equipped with robust, secure locking systems, offering significant peace of mind by safeguarding your valuable cargo from unauthorised access and potential theft.
- Durable Flooring: Heavy-duty, load-bearing flooring systems are integrated into our reefers, engineered to withstand the significant weight and stresses associated with handling and storing heavy loads, ensuring long-term structural integrity.
- Precise Temperature Control: Our reefers feature advanced refrigeration units capable of maintaining precise, consistent temperature-controlled environments. This capability is essential for the safe handling, preservation, and integrity of sensitive cargo requiring strict temperature regulation throughout its journey or storage period.
These features collectively ensure that our refrigerated containers offer a reliable and effective solution for managing your temperature-sensitive logistics and storage needs. We prioritise the quality and performance of our units to support the critical operations of your business.
Selecting the Right Refrigerated Container for Your Business
Choosing the appropriate refrigerated container involves evaluating several key factors specific to your business needs and the nature of the goods requiring temperature control. Consider the required internal volume based on the quantity of goods you typically handle. The choice between a 20ft container and a 40ft container will largely depend on this volumetric requirement and the available space at your site in Islington.
Determine the precise temperature range necessary for your cargo. Different products have varying temperature requirements for optimal preservation and safety. Ensure the reefer unit you select can reliably maintain this specific range. Also, consider the power supply requirements for the refrigeration unit. Reefers require a stable and sufficient power source to operate continuously. Discuss your power availability with our team to ensure compatibility.
Finally, consider whether buying or hiring a refrigerated container aligns best with your business model and budget. Hiring offers flexibility for short-term needs or projects, while buying provides a long-term asset for ongoing requirements. Our experts can guide you through these considerations, helping you make an informed decision tailored to your operational context in Islington.
Delivery and Siting Considerations in Islington
Transporting and siting a refrigerated container in Islington requires careful planning. Access to your site is a primary consideration. We utilise trucks equipped with HIAB cranes for delivery, which require sufficient space to manoeuvre and offload the container safely. Assess potential obstacles such as low bridges, narrow roads, or overhead power lines that might impact delivery.
The ground where the container will be sited must be firm, level, and capable of supporting the significant weight of the container, especially when loaded. Concrete or compacted hardstanding provides an ideal base. Ensure adequate clearance exists around the container, particularly near the refrigeration unit, to allow for ventilation and maintenance access. We can provide guidance on site preparation to ensure a smooth and safe delivery and installation process for your reefer in Islington.
Beyond Reefers: Other Container Types Available in Islington
While refrigerated containers are a speciality, Acorn Containers offers a comprehensive range of container solutions to meet various business needs in Islington. This includes standard 20ft and 40ft dry cargo containers for general storage and transport. We also provide open top containers, suitable for cargo that is taller than the container doors or requires loading from above, and flat rack containers for oversized or heavy items.
Our diverse inventory caters to various sectors, including construction sites needing secure storage, farming operations requiring on-site solutions, local councils with storage needs, educational centres, NHS facilities, self-storage businesses expanding capacity, and community sports clubs needing equipment storage. Whatever your requirement, we likely have a container solution to match.
Frequently Asked Questions About Refrigerated Containers
What temperature range can a refrigerated container maintain?
Refrigerated containers typically maintain temperatures between -25°C and +25°C, though some advanced units can achieve wider ranges. The specific range depends on the unit's specifications and the desired setting.
What power supply do refrigerated containers require?
Refrigerated containers usually require a 3-phase electrical power supply, commonly 380V/440V. Ensure your site has access to a suitable and stable power source.
Can I store both chilled and frozen goods in the same container?
No, a single refrigerated container unit can only maintain one temperature setting at a time. Storing goods requiring different temperature ranges necessitates separate containers.
Are refrigerated containers suitable for long-term storage?
Yes, refrigerated containers are designed for continuous operation and are suitable for both short-term transport and long-term, static temperature-controlled storage, provided they have a consistent power supply.
How is the temperature controlled and monitored?
Reefers feature integrated control panels allowing users to set the desired temperature. Many units also include data logging capabilities to monitor and record temperature fluctuations throughout the unit's operation.
Do I need planning permission for a refrigerated container in Islington?
Placing a container on your property in Islington may require planning permission, especially if it is intended for long-term placement or significantly alters the site's appearance. We recommend consulting with the Islington local council planning department to confirm specific requirements.
What is the difference between a new and used refrigerated container?
New refrigerated containers offer the latest technology and a longer expected lifespan. Used containers provide a more cost-effective option and are fully inspected and certified to ensure they are wind and waterproof with a functioning refrigeration unit, suitable for many storage and transport applications.
Can refrigerated containers be used for international shipping?
Yes, refrigerated containers are built to ISO standards, making them suitable for international maritime transport. They require certification plates (like CSC plates) which we ensure are valid for shipping purposes.
How quickly can a refrigerated container be delivered?
Delivery times depend on availability and your specific location in Islington. Contacting us directly allows us to provide the most accurate estimate based on current stock and logistical planning.
What maintenance is required for a refrigerated container?
Regular maintenance of the refrigeration unit is crucial to ensure reliable operation. This typically involves checks of the cooling system, electrical components, and seals. We ensure our hire units are fully serviced before delivery, and we can provide advice on maintenance for purchased units.