A Guide to Insulated Non-Operating Reefer Containers

Insulated non-operating reefer shipping containers are refrigerated containers that no longer have a working refrigeration unit. They usually have one set of double-door openings on the end.

Non-operating reefer shipping containers are also known as insulated containers or non-operating refrigerated containers.

Although the refrigeration unit is not working, the inside of the container will remain slightly cooler than the outside environment as a result of the R30 insulation.

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All refrigerated containers have an R30 thermal resistance rating. This means that heat does not transfer easily from the outside in and the inside out.

Along with insulation, the floors are made from aluminum. Instead of a flat floor that’s found in the standard dry van shipping containers, refrigerated containers have T-bar flooring (also known as T-grating, T-floor, T-style floor, or T-section floor) to keep the contents raised above the floor so that the cold air can circulate.

Non-working reefer shipping containers come in the following sizes: 20-foot, 40-foot, and 40-foot High Cube (HC). A High Cube container is one foot taller than standard containers, this allows for more vertical storage space and airflow.

How Big Is a Used Non-Operating Reefer Shipping Container?

It can be a challenge to picture exactly how big a container can be. Here are a few everyday guidelines to help you.

	20 ft	40ft	40ft HC
How much space will it take up outside?	Slightly bigger than a large single parking bay	Slightly bigger than two large single parking bays head to toe	Slightly bigger than two large single parking bays head to toe
How high is it externally?	About half a foot shorter than standard ceiling height (9ft)	About half a foot shorter than standard ceiling height (9ft)	About half a foot higher than standard ceiling height (9ft)
How many standard pallets (48” x 40”) can it hold?	9-10 Standard- pallets in one layer or tier	21 Standard- pallets in one layer or tier	21 Standard- pallets in one layer or tier

What Are the Dimensions of a Non-Operating Reefer Shipping Container?

Here are the approximate dimensions of the most common refrigerated (Reefer) shipping container sizes.

	20ft	40ft	40ft High Cube (HC)
External dimensions	20’ long 8’ wide 8’6” high.	40’ long 8’ wide 8’6” high	40’ long 8’ wide 9’6” high (1ft taller)
Internal dimensions	17’ 11” long 7’ 8” wide 7’ 6” high	37’ 11” long 7’ 8” wide 7’ 6” high	37’ long 7’ 6” wide 8’ 4” high
How wide is the door?	7’ 5” wide 7’ 3” high	7’ 6” wide 7’ 6” high	7’ 6” wide 8’ 4” high
What is the internal floor space?	134 sq.ft.	284 sq.ft.	284 sq.ft.
What is the volume? (Cubic Feet)	1,007 cu.ft	2,132 cu.ft.	2,368 cu.ft.
What does it weigh empty? (Tare)	6,530 lbs	9, 750 lbs	9,950 lbs

What Can This Type of Container Be Used For?

Non-operating reefer shipping containers are unique since they are and have aluminum T-bar flooring. The insulation will provide some measure of temperature control which makes them ideal for general purposes such as

Farming – useful for storing extra harvest while waiting to transport to market. Installing a small aircon on the back end can aid in maintaining a cooler internal temperature. On-site storage in hot climates. The interior will take much longer to heat up than a standard dry van.

Storage for colder climates – In extremely cold weather climates, the insulation will help maintain the internal temperature slightly warmer.

Watch the video below on Non-Operating Reefer Container Benefits

What Is the Condition of a Non-Operating Reefer Shipping Container?

Non-operating shipping containers are guaranteed Wind and Water Tight. This means that they will seal up properly and will not leak.

You can expect a Wind and Water Tight container to have original paint, shipping line markings, dents, abrasions, and surface rust.

If you’re interested in learning more about getting a non-operating reefer container or any other type of shipping container, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (888) 405-8772. Or you can also order here instead!

Conclusion

In conclusion, non-operating reefer shipping containers, also known as insulated containers, provide temperature control through their R30 insulation. Despite the lack of a working refrigeration unit, these containers remain slightly cooler inside because of the insulation. They feature T-bar flooring to allow for proper air circulation, and they come in various sizes, including 20-foot, 40-foot, and 40-foot High Cube containers. These containers are versatile and can be used for farming, on-site storage, and storage in colder climates. Wind and water-tight (WWT) are guaranteed to seal properly and not leak.

On-Site Storage Solutions

Looking for insulated non-operating reefer shipping containers? Look no further! On-Site Storage Solutions provides top-quality solutions for your on-site storage needs. Our team of professionals is happy to assist you in finding the perfect insulated non-operating reefer shipping container for your specific requirements. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (888) 405-8772 and explore our extensive range of options today!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are shipping containers insulated?

Standard shipping containers are not insulated. Non-working insulated reefers, however, are a type of shipping container that comes with built-in insulation. Although they don’t have operational refrigeration units, their insulation maintains more consistent temperatures, making them suitable for temperature-sensitive cargo.

What is a reefer shipping container?

A reefer shipping container is a specially designed container used for transporting perishable goods that require temperature regulation. It is equipped with a built-in refrigeration unit to maintain the desired temperature throughout the shipping process. Reefer containers are essential for preserving the freshness and quality of products like food and pharmaceuticals during transportation.