Refrigerated Containers Southampton
Acorn Containers: Premium refrigerated containers in Southampton. Secure, reliable cold chain solutions. Contact us today.
Refrigerated Shipping Containers: Reefers Southampton
Acorn Containers supplies new and used 20ft and 40ft refrigerated shipping containers, commonly known as reefers. Businesses utilise these specialised units for transporting and storing temperature-sensitive goods. Acorn's extensive UK-wide network ensures consistent stock updates, meeting diverse customer requirements. For the most current availability information, contact Acorn Containers directly.
Acorn Containers rigorously maintains and inspects its reefers, guaranteeing reliable performance and precise temperature control. Whether needing a new or pre-owned container, Acorn Containers offers a solution tailored to specific business requirements. Industries like food and pharmaceuticals depend on Acorn Containers' robust and dependable refrigerated containers to protect valuable and perishable cargo. Beyond these sectors, any industry handling temperature-sensitive goods finds reefers a valuable asset. Explore options further and discuss individual needs by reaching the Acorn Containers team at 0330 027 1420 or via email at
Choosing the Right Reefer: 20ft vs 40ft
Selecting the appropriate size of refrigerated container proves crucial for efficient operations and cost-effectiveness. Acorn Containers provides both 20ft and 40ft refrigerated containers, each designed to meet different logistical requirements. Consider the volume of goods requiring transport or storage when making this crucial decision. The following specifications help assess the suitability of each size for business needs. Find specific information on containers available in Southampton by visiting the dedicated page for Reefers in Southampton.
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 |
For more information on 20ft containers available in the Southampton area, visit the page dedicated to 20ft containers in Southampton.
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 |
If requiring larger capacity, explore the selection of 40ft containers located in Southampton by visiting the 40ft container Southampton page.
Key Features and Benefits of Acorn Containers' Reefers
Acorn Containers builds its refrigerated units to the highest standards, ensuring both durability and reliability. Key features include:
- Robust Construction: Wind and waterproof containers designed to withstand the rigours of shipping and storage environments.
- International Compliance: Adherence to all relevant international shipping standards facilitates seamless global transportation.
- Enhanced Security: Secure locking systems protect valuable cargo during transit and storage.
- Durable Flooring: Heavy-duty flooring supports substantial weight loads effectively.
- Precise Temperature Control: Units maintain the temperature-controlled environments necessary for safe transport and storage of sensitive cargo. Whether needing freezing or chilling, Acorn Containers offers a suitable solution.
The specifications provided serve as guidance only. For precise details on any particular container, or for tailored assistance with specific needs, contact Acorn Containers.
Request a quotation or discuss requirements further using the convenient online quote form or by calling 0330 027 1420. Acorn Containers commits to providing the best possible service and helping businesses find the perfect refrigerated container for their needs. For those seeking options beyond reefers, Acorn Containers also offers a wide selection of other container types including Flat Rack containers in Southampton and a wider range of cargo containers for sale and hire in Southampton.
Frequently Asked Questions About Refrigerated Containers
What is a refrigerated shipping container?
A refrigerated shipping container, or reefer, is a specialised intermodal container equipped with a refrigeration unit. It maintains a consistent, controlled temperature environment for transporting and storing temperature-sensitive goods like food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
What temperature range can reefers maintain?
Reefers typically maintain temperatures ranging from approximately -25°C to +25°C, depending on the specific unit and the required settings. This wide range allows for the transport and storage of both frozen and chilled products.
Are refrigerated containers only used for shipping overseas?
While designed for international shipping, reefers are also extensively used for domestic transport and static storage applications. Businesses utilise them for temporary cold storage at events, construction sites, or as overflow capacity.
What sizes of refrigerated containers are available?
The most common sizes are 20ft and 40ft, providing different capacities to suit varying cargo volumes and logistical requirements.
What power source do reefers require?
Refrigerated containers require a power source to operate their cooling unit. During transport on ships, they connect to the vessel's power. For land transport or static storage, they typically connect to a generator set (genset) or a suitable electrical supply (usually 3-phase).
Can I purchase or hire a reefer from Acorn Containers in Southampton?
Yes, Acorn Containers offers both new and used refrigerated containers for sale and hire in Southampton. Contact the team to discuss available options and pricing.
How do I ensure the correct temperature is maintained during transit?
Modern reefers feature sophisticated temperature monitoring systems. Businesses must pre-cool the container, set the correct temperature, ensure proper loading techniques allow for air circulation, and monitor temperature readings throughout the journey.
What types of goods are typically transported in reefers?
Common goods include fresh and frozen foods (meat, fish, fruits, vegetables), dairy products, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, flowers, and certain chemicals requiring temperature control.
Are used refrigerated containers reliable?
Reputable suppliers like Acorn Containers rigorously inspect and maintain used reefers to ensure they remain fully operational and capable of precise temperature control. The condition of a used container depends on its history and maintenance.
What is the difference between a standard container and a reefer?
A standard container is designed for transporting general dry cargo. A reefer is a specialised container with an integrated refrigeration unit, insulated walls, and flooring specifically designed to maintain a controlled temperature environment.
How should I prepare goods for transport in a reefer?
Proper preparation includes pre-cooling the goods to the required temperature, ensuring packaging allows for adequate air circulation within the container, and loading correctly to avoid blocking airflow.
What is a genset and why might I need one?
A genset (generator set) provides electrical power for the reefer's refrigeration unit when a mains power source is unavailable, such as during road transport or for static storage in remote locations.
What are the benefits of using refrigerated containers for storage?
Reefers provide flexible, portable, and secure temperature-controlled storage solutions. Businesses use them for seasonal peaks, events, renovations, or as backup storage.
Are Acorn Containers' reefers compliant with international standards?
Yes, Acorn Containers ensures its reefers meet relevant international shipping standards, making them suitable for global transportation.
How secure are refrigerated containers?
Reefers feature robust construction and secure locking systems designed to protect valuable cargo from theft and unauthorised access.
Can I transport chilled and frozen goods in the same reefer?
No, a single reefer maintains one consistent temperature throughout the container. Transporting goods requiring different temperature ranges simultaneously is not possible in a single unit.
What information do I need to provide when enquiring about a reefer?
Provide details such as the required size (20ft or 40ft), whether needing purchase or hire, the type of goods transported/stored, the required temperature range, and the delivery location (e.g., Southampton).
Do you offer delivery of reefers in Southampton?
Yes, Acorn Containers arranges delivery of refrigerated containers to locations in and around Southampton. Discuss specific delivery requirements when contacting the team.
What industries commonly use reefers in Southampton?
Industries include food distribution, catering, pharmaceuticals, events management, and any business handling perishable or temperature-sensitive goods requiring reliable cold chain logistics.
Can I use a reefer for long-term storage?
Yes, with a consistent power supply, reefers serve effectively for long-term temperature-controlled storage needs.
How does air circulation work inside a reefer?
The refrigeration unit circulates conditioned air throughout the container via T-bar flooring channels, ensuring uniform temperature distribution around the cargo. Proper loading is essential for efficient airflow.
What is the tare weight of a refrigerated container?
Tare weight refers to the weight of the empty container itself. This varies slightly depending on the size and specific construction of the unit.
What is the maximum payload of a reefer?
Maximum payload indicates the maximum weight of cargo the container can carry. This figure is crucial for planning shipments and depends on the container size and type.
Are there different types of reefer units?
While the basic function is the same, manufacturers produce different models of refrigeration units with varying features, efficiencies, and temperature capabilities.
How do I get a quote for a refrigerated container in Southampton?
Request a quote by calling 0330 027 1420, emailing
What maintenance is required for a reefer?
Reefers require regular maintenance of the refrigeration unit, including checks of refrigerants, electrical components, and overall system functionality to ensure reliable operation.
Can I use a reefer as a cold room?
Yes, businesses frequently use reefers as portable cold rooms, providing flexible temperature-controlled space without the need for permanent construction.
What is the external height of a standard reefer?
Standard 20ft and 40ft reefers typically have an external height of 8ft 6 inches (2.591 metres).
What is the internal volume of a 20ft reefer?
A 20ft refrigerated container has an approximate internal volume of 33 cubic metres (1,165 cubic feet).
What is the internal volume of a 40ft reefer?
A 40ft refrigerated container has an approximate internal volume of 67 cubic metres (2,366 cubic feet).