Glossary > #Internal Dimensions

Internal Dimensions of Reefer Containers

In the field of global transportation and logistics, the term “Internal dimensions of Reefer containers” refers to the internal dimensions that are key to determining the volume and capacity of temperature-controlled storage units. These Reefer containers are essential for transporting perishable goods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, and pharmaceuticals over long distances. Understanding their internal dimensions is crucial for maximizing cargo space and ensuring safe and efficient transportation of goods.

The internal dimensions of Reefer containers play a key role in the global supply chain, affecting everything from cargo capacity and loading efficiency to temperature management. By understanding these dimensions and specifications, businesses can optimize their logistics operations and ensure that perishable goods arrive in perfect condition, regardless of distance. Whether you are a logistics manager, freight forwarder, or seller, appreciating the nuances of Reefer container dimensions is key to your success in temperature-controlled transportation.

This comprehensive glossary provides a detailed overview of the internal dimensions and specifications of Reefer containers, offering essential information for optimizing logistics and ensuring safe transportation of perishable goods.

What is a Reefer Container?

A Reefer container is a type of shipping container used to transport temperature-sensitive cargo. These containers are equipped with cooling units that maintain a specific temperature range, typically between -30°C and +30°C, depending on cargo requirements. The cooling unit can be powered by an external source or a standalone generator, known as a genset.

Key Components of Reefer Containers

  1. Cooling Unit: It is the heart of the reefer, responsible for maintaining internal temperature. It can be powered by electricity or diesel.
  2. Insulated Walls: Help maintain temperature by reducing heat exchange with the external environment.
  3. T-Floor: The floor often contains a T-bar design that allows proper air circulation and drainage.
  4. Ventilation System: Ensures circulation of fresh air, which is necessary for certain types of perishable goods.

Importance of Internal Dimensions

The internal dimensions of Reefer containers are important for several reasons:

  • Cargo Capacity: Determines how much product can be stored and transported.
  • Loading Efficiency: Affects the ease and method of loading and unloading cargo.
  • Temperature Management: Ensures sufficient air flow around the cargo for even temperature maintenance.

Common Sizes of Reefer Containers

Reefer containers come in various sizes, with the most common being 20ft, 40ft, and 53ft. Each size accommodates different logistics needs and space constraints.

20ft Reefer Container

  • Internal Length: Approximately 5.44 meters
  • Internal Width: Approximately 2.29 meters
  • Internal Height: Approximately 2.27 meters
  • Volume: Approximately 28.3 cubic meters
  • Use: Suitable for smaller shipments or limited space.

40ft Reefer Container

  • Internal Length: Approximately 11.56 meters
  • Internal Width: Approximately 2.28 meters
  • Internal Height: Approximately 2.25 meters
  • Volume: Approximately 59.3 cubic meters
  • Use: Ideal for larger shipments requiring greater volume and weight capacity.

40ft High Cube Reefer Container

  • Internal Length: Approximately 11.58 meters
  • Internal Width: Approximately 2.29 meters
  • Internal Height: Approximately 2.40 meters
  • Volume: Approximately 67.3 cubic meters
  • Use: Provides extra height for larger cargo and is used for transporting bulky items.

53ft Reefer Container

  • Internal Length: Approximately 16.15 meters
  • Internal Width: Approximately 2.44 meters
  • Internal Height: Approximately 2.59 meters
  • Volume: Approximately 86 cubic meters
  • Use: Used in markets with higher demand for volume, such as North America.

Container Specifications

Understanding specifications beyond dimensions, such as tare weight, cargo capacity, and maximum gross weight, is essential for logistics planning. For example:

  • Tare Weight: The weight of an empty container, affecting transportation costs.
  • Cargo Capacity: The maximum allowable weight of cargo.
  • Maximum Gross Weight: The total weight of the container and its cargo.

Door Dimensions of Reefer Containers

Door dimensions are also a key factor, affecting the type and size of cargo that can be loaded. For example, a 20ft container may have a door width of 2.23 meters and a height of 2.10 meters.

Power Supply Considerations

Reefer containers typically require specific power sources to operate:

  • Electric Units: Often require 380/400V 3-phase power supply.
  • Diesel Units: Equipped with gensets for off-grid operation.

Advanced Features

Some Reefer containers are equipped with additional features, such as humidity control, advanced ventilation, and LED lighting, to further ensure cargo integrity.