Guide to Refrigerated Containers & Trailers
Storage containers offer countless benefits for businesses across industries. Due to their versatility and durability, they can address a wide range of storage needs. Although a standard shipping container might be the standard option you’d picture, many varieties exist—including cold storage units. These refrigerated containers provide reliable climate control to store everything from flowers to pharmaceuticals, maintaining the ideal environment to keep the unit’s contents in good condition.
If your business is searching for cold storage solutions, you might wonder which option is right for you. This guide will provide a breakdown of the different refrigerated container varieties, allowing you to ascertain the right container for your business.
Types of Cold Storage Containers
Should you opt for a refrigerated container? Or maybe a walk-in cooler? Which one is right for your company? Learn about the different types of cold storage units to discover the ideal one for you.
Refrigerated Containers
Refrigerated containers, also known as reefer containers, utilize an all-electric cooling system that requires either 230V 3-phase or 460V 3-phase power. They can provide versatile solutions, as their cooling system can maintain temperatures below 0°F and up to 75°F, allowing them to serve as coolers or freezers. The container’s contents remain secure with lockable double doors located on one end.
These refrigerated storage units typically come in two lengths: 20’ and 40’. The 20’ variety offers enhanced compactness—they can even fit in a standard parking space. The 20’ models are 8’W x 8’6”H, and the 40’ models are 8’W x 9’6”H. All units have durable aluminum floors, which can effectively withstand pallet jack and forklift traffic. Refrigerated storage containers can deliver high-quality solutions to businesses across industries, allowing them to reliably keep goods at the ideal temperatures.
Refrigerated Trailers
How do refrigerated trailers differ from their refrigerated container counterparts? They’re on wheels! These mobile units provide the added convenience of being able to back up directly to your loading dock. This feature makes refrigerated trailers ideal for businesses that will frequently load and unload pallets. They also sit at dock level, allowing users to drive pallets from the warehouse floor straight into the trailer.
However, other than the difference in wheels, these refrigerated trailers share many similarities with refrigerated containers. They have the same lockable doors, aluminum floors, and electric cooling system that can maintain temperatures below 0°F and up to 75°F. Businesses can trust these containers to offer durability and convenience for their cold storage needs. They give you the flexibility to store your temperature-sensitive items at ground level or on wheels at your loading dock.
Walk-in Coolers & Freezers
Walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers are the ideal solution for food distributors and those in the food and beverage industry. Their electric cooling systems differ from refrigerated trailers and containers, as their temperature capabilities range from 0°F and 40°F. They require 220V single-phase power and are equipped with the necessary 50’ power cord. These 20’ long models offer compact solutions on-site, fitting easily into a standard parking space.
Another benefit of these coolers is their NSF approval for food storage, meaning they provide the right environment for perishable food storage. These walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers have a standard 4’ walk-in door, and the interior is outfitted with lighting, a diamond tread plate floor, and a digital temperature display. For many businesses in the food industry, these walk-ins deliver convenient, efficient solutions wherever you need them.
Benefits of Refrigerated Containers
Cold storage containers offer a myriad of benefits for businesses and organizations of all sizes, including:
- Temperature Control: Reefer containers are designed to maintain precise temperature ranges, making them ideal for preserving perishable goods such as food, pharmaceuticals, and other temperature-sensitive products. By maintaining consistent internal conditions, refrigerated containers prevent spoilage, ensuring that products remain fresh and safe for use or consumption.
- Versatility: One significant benefit of refrigerated containers is their versatility. Available in various sizes, they can cater to the needs of businesses large and small, whether your business needs to transport a single shipment or if you need to store temperature-sensitive inventory for an extended period. These containers can be set to accommodate a wide range of temperatures, from temperatures below 0°F for frozen goods or chilled conditions for items like medical supplies.
- Portability: Another advantage of cold storage containers is their mobility. They can be transported via trucks, ships, or trains, allowing businesses to move perishable goods across long distances. This makes them invaluable for supply chain operations and trade, ensuring products reach their destination in optimal condition.
- Cost Effectiveness: Refrigerated containers can be a cost-effective alternative to investing in permanent cold storage facilities. They offer flexibility for businesses experiencing routine seasonal demand surges or expanding into new markets. With advanced insulation and energy-efficient cooling systems, modern refrigerated containers also help reduce operational costs and minimize environmental impact.
Using refrigerated containers at your business can enhance efficiency, save money, and help meet regulatory requirements for handling temperature-sensitive goods, making them an essential tool for many industries.
Find Your Ideal Cold Storage Solution
No matter what option suits your business best, a wide array of cold storage units exist to cater to your specific needs. Looking for a reliable storage container provider to assist your business?
Count on Container Technology Inc., a trusted provider of shipping and storage containers since 1988. Request a free quote online or call us today to learn more about our products and pricing!
