Refrigerated Shipping Containers

Container Projects manages the supply of high-specification refrigerated units, commonly known as reefers, for industrial and commercial sectors. Businesses looking for container sales or flexible container hire can access our inventory at regional depots. To receive a professional get a quote, contact our technical team with your temperature requirements. Our logistics network ensures prompt delivery to any location in the United Kingdom.

Refrigerated containers use a built-in machinery unit to maintain internal temperatures between -25°C and +25°C. Most of our new stock consists of one-trip units. A one-trip unit is a new container that has made a single journey from the manufacturer to the UK. Every reefer intended for international transport features a CSC plate. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international shipping to certify structural integrity.

Choose the right container size and type

Selecting the correct size depends on your pallet volume and available site space. All units feature stainless steel internal linings and aluminium T-bar floors for airflow.

10ft Refrigerated Containers

The 10ft refrigerated freezer is suitable for restricted sites or catering events. It provides enough space for approximately 4 standard pallets while occupying a small footprint. These units are often used for seasonal overflow in the retail and hospitality sectors.

20ft Refrigerated Containers

The 20ft thermal unit is the industry standard for medium-scale storage. It holds up to 10 standard pallets and is frequently used by pharmaceutical companies for climate-controlled inventory. The internal height is approximately 2.27m (7ft 5in).

40ft High Cube Refrigerated Containers

For large-scale logistics, the 40ft thermal high cube unit provides maximum capacity. The high cube configuration offers an extra foot of vertical clearance, which is vital for high-volume stacking. These units can accommodate 20 to 23 standard pallets. You can view all container types on our overview page.

Hire or buy

Container Projects facilitates both acquisition routes depending on project duration. Buying is a practical choice for permanent site installations, cold rooms, or dedicated export loops. Hire provides a flexible, cost-effective solution for short-term projects or seasonal demands. We provide full technical support and maintenance for all rental units across the UK.

Condition grades and technical standards

The condition of the machinery and insulation is critical for performance. We supply units that meet the IICL standard. IICL refers to a high standard of container repair and condition set by the Institute of International Container Lessors. For general storage, we offer used units graded as wind and watertight. A wind and watertight unit is a condition grade ensuring the unit is sealed against weather and light. We confirm the tare and payload of every unit before dispatch. The tare is the weight of the empty container. The payload is the maximum weight of cargo the container can carry.

Delivery access, siting, and placement

Container Projects coordinates delivery using hiab crane vehicles. Siting a refrigerated unit requires specific technical conditions:

• Power Supply: Most units require a 3-phase 380v/440v power connection with a 5-pin 32amp plug.
• Ground Surface: The ground must be level and firm, such as concrete or hard-standing. Uneven ground causes the frame to twist, which affects door seals and thermal efficiency.
• Access Width: Delivery vehicles require a minimum width of 10ft for transit.
• Vertical Clearance: Check for low bridges or power cables. A truck carrying a high cube container can exceed 15ft in height.
• Manoeuvring Space: A 40ft delivery vehicle requires approximately 100ft of straight approach to position the unit safely.

Security, condensation, and aftercare

Security is managed via heavy-duty locking bars and factory-fitted lock boxes. Unlike standard steel boxes, refrigerated units have thick polyurethane insulation which naturally prevents internal condensation. Container Projects provides aftercare advice, including regular cleaning of the T-bar floor and inspection of the door gaskets. We recommend a monthly check of the refrigeration motor to ensure optimal performance.

Export use and compliance

For international transport of perishables, the unit must have a valid CSC plate and a recent Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) report. Container Projects ensures all export-grade units are tested and certified. We provide the documentation required by maritime shipping lines for temperature-sensitive cargo. Refer to our container dimensions page for technical drawings used in shipping manifests.

How Container Projects handles supply and delivery

1. Consultation: We confirm your required temperature range and pallet capacity.
2. Stock Selection: We identify a suitable unit at the nearest UK depot to your site.
3. Logistics Planning: Our team verifies your power availability and site access constraints.
4. Dispatch: We schedule a hiab delivery, typically within 7 to 10 working days.
5. Handover: The driver positions the unit and confirms the refrigeration motor starts correctly.