20ft Thermal Shipping Container (Reefer, Freezer, Insulated)

Temperature-controlled storage across the UK

Container Projects coordinates the supply and logistics of specialised thermal equipment for industries requiring precise climate control. For organisations that need a permanent on-site cold store, we offer options to buy containers from our national stock. If your requirement is seasonal or project-based, we provide shipping container hire with flexible terms and nationwide transport. To receive a detailed proposal for your site, request a container quote today. These units are essential for maintaining the integrity of food, pharmaceuticals, and chemical products.

20ft Thermal container specifications

Thermal containers are built with high-density polyurethane insulation and stainless steel internal linings. An operational refrigerated container features integrated machinery to maintain temperatures, while a non-operational unit acts as a large vacuum flask. Use the table below to verify dimensions for your site placement.

Tare is the weight of the empty container, including machinery. Payload is the maximum weight of goods the container can safely hold. Note that the internal length is approximately 600mm shorter than the dry storage units to accommodate the refrigeration motor and insulation bulkhead.

Operational reefer and freezer units

A freezer container from Container Projects can maintain internal temperatures between -40 and +45 degrees Celsius. These units require a 3-phase 380-440V power supply. The machinery uses an air-cooled condenser to pull heat from the interior, circulating cold air through a T-bar aluminium floor to ensure even temperature distribution. These units are suitable for storing up to 10 Euro pallets per layer.

Insulated and non-operational units

A non-operational insulated container is a unit in which the machinery is no longer functional or has been removed, but the box's thermal properties remain. These are used for storing goods that must be kept at a steady ambient temperature, such as wine, dry wood, or sensitive electronics. Because the walls are made of stainless steel and aluminium, they are easy to clean and resist odours. These units are often chosen by clients who do not have access to 3-phase power but require the protection of an insulated structure.

Condition grades and quality

Container Projects stocks thermal units in different condition grades to suit varying technical requirements.

• One-trip: A one-trip unit is a container manufactured and used for a single journey from the factory, offering the highest level of insulation efficiency and cosmetic finish.
• Used/Refurbished: These units have completed their marine service but have undergone Pre-Trip Inspections (PTI) to ensure the machinery and box are functional and wind and watertight.
• Wind and watertight: A grade ensuring the unit is structurally sound and prevents weather ingress, critical for maintaining thermal internal environments.

Delivery access, siting, and power

Precise placement is managed by our container haulage team using hiab vehicles. The delivery site must meet several criteria to ensure safe operation.

• Ground Conditions: The unit must be placed on a firm level surface such as concrete, tarmac, or compacted gravel. Uneven ground can twist the frame, preventing the heavy insulated doors from sealing.
• Access: The hiab truck requires a minimum width of 10ft and height clearance of 15ft.
• Power Proximity: Operational reefers should be sited near a 32-Amp 5-pin 3-phase power socket.
• Obstructions: Check for overhead power cables and low tree branches that could interfere with the crane.

Security and aftercare

Container Projects provides high-security features as standard. Every 20ft thermal unit includes factory-fitted locking bars and can be equipped with a lockbox to protect the padlock. Aftercare involves regular checks of the door gaskets to ensure they remain airtight. For operational units, we recommend annual PTI checks to verify the refrigerant levels and motor performance. Owners of units can also utilise our container buy-back service when the equipment is no longer required.

Export use and compliance

If the container is used for international transport, it must have a valid CSC plate. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international shipping under the International Convention for Safe Containers. Container Projects ensures that all units sold for export meet the necessary structural standards and carry current certification. For non-operational boxes, we can provide structural validation if the unit is intended for shipment as a dry container.

How Container Projects handles your order

1. Consult with our team to determine the required temperature range and power availability.
2. Select a one-trip or used unit from our container dimensions guide.
3. Review a detailed quote including delivery to your UK postcode.
4. Schedule the hiab delivery for a time that suits your site operations.
5. The unit is positioned, levelled, and commissioned on your premises.