On this page we describe what a reefer container is, what it is used for and how the refrigeration systems work. We also included some explanation about reefer manufacturers and gensets.
What is a reefer container?
Let’s start with this one. What is a reefer container? Reefer container is short for refrigerated container. Sometimes it is even further abbreviated to RF container. A reefer container is a type of shipping container that remains its cargo at a regulated, cool temperature.
What is a reefer container used for?
Reefers are essential for worldwide trade of food (fruit, meat, fish, vegetables, dairy) and non-food products like flowers and pharmaceuticals. Besides that, refrigerated containers are often used for cool storage of food and beverages at events and festivals.
By definition, a reefer container is a shipping container which is equipped with a generator which cools the content of the container. The cooling gets done during shipping as well as in storage.
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The new 40ft high cube reefer containers are slightly higher (about 30 centimetres) than the regular 40ft reefer containers. These high cube reefer containers are… 
20FT Reefer Container New
Reefer containers can be used for the storage or transportation of goods that need to be cooled, which are usually perishable goods. These goods have…
How does a reefer container work?
Now that you are familiar with the meaning of a reefer container, let’s explain how a reefer works. Foremost: the refrigeration of a reefer is done by air.
Reefer cooling by air
The generator, placed on one side of the container, blows air into the container. In most cases the air is blown in through the floor or side of the container. The floor of a reefer container is usually a T-style floor. T-flooring lets the air flow through the floor and cool the cargo from the bottom up. You can see the T-style floor on the picture below.
After loading, the generator can be set to the right temperature and the container will take care of itself from there on. The internal temperature can be maintained, even if the outside temperature suddenly increases or decreases. While a reefer shipping container is excellent at maintaining the temperature of its content, it is important to remember that a reefer cannot be used to reach the desired temperature. In other words: the cargo of a reefer container has to be brought to the desired temperature prior to loading.
Reefer cooling by water
Some reefers are provided with a cooling system that uses water to cool the cargo. When a reefer container is stored below deck on a cargo vessel, or sometimes even when multiple containers are stacked together in a tight space, the water cooling system is used to ventilate the generated heat outside of the container and even the space it’s being stored. However, because of the high price of a water cooling system, these type of reefer containers are declining in popularity.
Reefer manufacturers
Carrier, Thermo King and Daikin reefers are the most popular reefer manufacturers. Due to the high quality, our range consists of reefers of the great manufacturers.
What are gensets for reefer containers?
A refrigerated container can also be equipped with a genset, which is short for generator set. This genset can be installed as a clip-on genset, which means the genset is mounted on the side of the container and can be more easily removed after delivery or storage (see the picture below). The genset can also be mounted as an underslung generator set, this is when the genset is hung (or mounted) under the container. This is mostly used for trailer transportation, where the genset is mounted on the trailer. This way, only the container has to be swapped and not the whole trailer.
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View container10FT Reefer Container New
This 10ft reefer container is suitable for cooling on location. The 10ft reefer container can be used during an event for extra cooling or the… - View container
20FT Reefer Container New
Reefer containers can be used for the storage or transportation of goods that need to be cooled, which are usually perishable goods. These goods have…
Can a reefer be modified?
Standard reefer containers are produced by brands liked Carrier and Thermo King. Due to high demand for custom reefer containers, Alconet has specialized itself in modifying reefer container to the customer’s unique needs. For instance, we can customize reefer container with extra doors, windows, lighting, storage racks or insulation. Additionally, we can also alter the appearance of a container by painting it to virtually every color or applying a brand logo. You can view our current offer of reefer containers, or contact us directly.
Where to buy a reefer container?
If you are looking to buy or rent a refrigerated container for transport or storage, we can help you out. See our complete offer of used and new reefers. Also our gensets are to be found online. Request a quote and you will receive a personal quotation in just two working days. We can ship every container to your desired location! Are some of your questions still unanswered? Get in touch with our container specialists for more information.