Refrigerated Shipping Containers For Sale Today

A container in used condition — in service and structurally sound. Chosen for temperature-controlled storage and transport. Every unit is inspected before it leaves our yard, so the grade below is what you will actually receive.

Refrigerated Shipping Containers For Sale Today
These refrigerated shipping containers provide a standardized solution for temperature-controlled storage and transport. Constructed from weathering-resistant materials, they are engineered to maintain precise internal environments for a variety of temperature-sensitive goods. Each unit is a converted ISO container, originally built for intermodal freight and subsequently fitted with an integrated refrigeration system.
Key Features

Integrated Refrigeration Unit: Each container is fitted with a factory-installed or retrofitted, commercially available refrigeration system. These systems are commonly used in cold chain logistics.

Standardized Dimensions: Built to standard ISO freight container external dimensions, allowing for transport via flatbed truck, rail, or vessel without special permitting in most cases.

Durable Steel Construction: The primary structure consists of COR-TEN steel, which is designed to withstand the rigors of ocean freight and outdoor storage.

Cargo Restraint Points: The interior floor is typically equipped with plywood or aluminum planking over steel cross members, featuring integrated lashing rings for securing cargo during transit.

Digital Temperature Control: Units include an external digital display and control panel, allowing operators to set and monitor the interior temperature without entering the container.

Insulated Panels: The walls, floor, and ceiling are insulated with polyurethane foam to minimize thermal transfer and reduce the workload on the refrigeration unit.

Detailed Description
A refrigerated shipping container, often referred to as a “reefer,” functions as a mobile cold storage unit. It is designed to maintain a consistent internal temperature, typically ranging from -20°F to over 40°F, depending on the specific model and ambient external conditions.
The unit operates using a standard three-phase electrical connection, which powers the compressor and fan system. Cold air is circulated throughout the container via a T-shaped floor track, ensuring even temperature distribution across the entire cargo area. This forced-air system prevents the formation of hot spots and maintains the integrity of the stored products.
The exterior of the container is fabricated from heavy-gauge weathering steel, specifically chosen for its durability and resistance to corrosion in various climates. The doors are fitted with heavy-duty locking gear and cam bars to provide a secure, airtight seal when closed.
For businesses requiring temporary or permanent expansion of their cold chain capacity, these containers offer a scalable alternative to brick-and-mortar cold storage construction. They can be placed on a prepared level surface, connected to a power source, and made operational within a short timeframe. Their inherent mobility also allows them to be relocated if storage needs change.
Technical Specifications

External Dimensions (Standard)

Length: 20 ft or 40 ft

Width: 8 ft

Height: 8 ft 6 in (Standard) / 9 ft 6 in (High Cube)

Internal Dimensions (Approximate)

Length: 18 ft (20 ft unit) / 38 ft (40 ft unit)

Width: 7 ft 7 in

Height: 7 ft 5 in (Standard) / 8 ft 5 in (High Cube)

Temperature Range: Typically configurable from -20°F to +40°F, depending on ambient conditions and unit specification.

Power Requirements: 230/460 Volt, 3-Phase electrical connection required for refrigeration unit operation.

Insulation Material: Polyurethane foam injected between interior and exterior steel panels.

Door Configuration: One set of double doors at one end, opening to 270 degrees.

Material: COR-TEN (Weathering) Steel exterior and interior lining.

Intended Use
These refrigerated containers are intended for commercial and industrial applications requiring secure, mobile cold storage. They are suitable for:

Agricultural Storage: Holding harvested produce such as apples, citrus fruits, or root vegetables at controlled temperatures.

Food Distribution: Acting as a temporary cold storage buffer for caterers, grocery distributors, or food banks.

Floral Preservation: Storing cut flowers and botanicals that require consistent cool temperatures.

Industrial Material Storage: Keeping temperature-sensitive adhesives, paints, or certain chemical compounds stable before use.

Event Support: Providing cold storage for perishable goods at fairs, festivals, or large-scale catering events.

Package Includes

(1) Refrigerated Shipping Container

(1) Integrated Refrigeration Unit with external digital controller

(1) Set of operational keys for door locking mechanisms

Pre-operational check and certification of the refrigeration unit

Condition

This is a used container that has been in service. It is wind and watertight — no holes, working door seals, an intact roof — but it shows its history: surface rust, dents and previous owner markings are normal and do not affect how it performs.

What it is good for

This unit is commonly used for temperature-controlled storage and transport. Doors, windows, insulation, electrics and paint can all be added before it ships — it is cheaper and neater to specify a conversion while the container is still in our yard than to modify it on your site afterwards.

Browse more in 40ft Containers, or see the full container catalogue.

Standards and inspection

Containers intended for international shipping carry a valid safety approval plate under the Convention for Safe Containers, administered by the International Maritime Organization. Condition grades such as cargo-worthy follow the inspection criteria published by the Institute of International Container Lessors. If you need a unit for shipping rather than static storage, tell us and we will confirm its plate before dispatch.

Delivery

Delivery is quoted against your site access rather than published as a flat rate, because haulage for a container depends on the distance, the approach and whether a crane is needed. Most deliveries use a tilt-bed truck, which needs a clear and reasonably level run about twice the container length. We price it before you commit.