Proper storage of goods in refrigerated shipping containers
Proper storage of goods in refrigerated shipping containers is a complex set of procedures, technologies, logistics operations and regular maintenance, whose aim is to ensure that temperature‑sensitive goods are transported and stored under optimal and stable conditions from the point of dispatch to delivery. This process is essential for preserving the quality, freshness, health safety and shelf life of products such as food, medicines, biological materials, plants or chemicals.
At the core is active cold‑chain management (cold chain), which includes:
- selection of appropriate container type and size,
- its preparation and pre‑cooling,
- correct and safe loading of goods with regard to air circulation,
- monitoring of temperature and humidity,
- regular maintenance and hygiene checks,
- compliance with all legislative and transport regulations.
The use of refrigerated (reefer) containers enables transport and long‑term storage of goods over distance without risk of degradation, across a wide temperature range.
Technological basis and construction of refrigerated shipping containers
What does a refrigerated container (reefer) consist of?
Refrigerated shipping container is a highly sophisticated device designed for maximum protection of sensitive goods.
Main components:
| Component | Description and function |
|---|---|
| Cooling unit | Compressor, condenser, evaporator – provides cooling and heating in the range approx. –30 °C to +30 °C. |
| Insulation | Polyurethane foam in walls, ceiling and floor to minimize heat loss and save energy. |
| T‑floor | Aluminum T‑shaped profiles – enable even circulation of cold air beneath the cargo. |
| Inner walls | Stainless steel/food‑grade materials – easy to clean, durable, hygienic. |
| Control electronics | Digital controllers and microprocessors for precise setting and recording of temperature, humidity and ventilation. |
| Safety features | Internal handholds, locks, alarms, emergency opening, interior lighting for operator and cargo safety. |
| Outer doors & insulation | Double‑sealed doors, lockable, highly resistant to moisture and heat ingress. |
Technological highlights:
- Modern containers are equipped with Microlink 3 units (the most efficient system on the market), which offer intelligent energy management and remote monitoring.
- They allow setting a constant temperature from –25 °C to +25 °C (some specialized units down to –60 °C, e.g., for sushi tuna).
- All parts are designed for stacking, transport by rail, road and sea, without loss of functionality or safety.
Why use refrigerated containers for sensitive goods?
Advantages compared to ordinary warehouses and transport:
- Precise temperature regulation: Maintaining stable temperature with minimal fluctuations is crucial to prevent mold, bacteria growth or degradation of active substances.
- Flexibility: Available in standard sizes (most commonly 20’ and 40’), allowing rapid capacity expansion without construction investment.
- Mobility: Containers can be moved or temporarily placed as needed (e.g., warehouses during renovations, events, seasonal storage).
- Security: Robust construction guarantees protection against weather, mechanical damage and unauthorized intrusion.
- Eco‑friendly operation: New models use eco‑friendly refrigerants and energy‑saving technologies (Microlink 3). Energy savings are key for operation and ecological footprint.
- Dual temperature zones: Some containers allow transporting different types of goods simultaneously thanks to partition walls and independent temperature control.
Most common uses and specific examples of sensitive products
| Product type | Storage specifics and requirements | Example temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Fruit and vegetables | Produce ethylene, require precise humidity and temperature | Bananas +13 °C, berries +2–4 °C |
| Meat and fish | Rapid bacterial growth at higher temperature | Fresh meat 0 °C, frozen –18 °C to –25 °C |
| Dairy products | Sensitive to fluctuations, must not coagulate or mold | +2 °C to +7 °C |
| Pharmaceuticals | Require absolute stability, often temperature recording | +2 °C to +8 °C, special +15–25 °C |
| Flowers and plants | Need combination of cool and higher humidity | +1 °C to +10 °C |
| Chemicals | Some are unstable or hazardous outside a narrow temperature range | Depends on the specific substance |
| Bakery, breweries | Raw materials, finished products, seasonal stocks | +2 °C to +10 °C |
| Forest seedlings, seeds | Stratification, slowed growth, storage before planting | 0 °C to +5 °C |
Proven practices (Best Practices) for storage and transport
Selecting the right container
- Consider size, technical condition, age (new, after first voyage, used), type of cooling unit and required temperature range.
- Always verify the validity of the CSC plate and compliance with hygiene standards (all containers from reputable suppliers are certified).
Container preparation and pre‑cooling
- The refrigerated container must be cleaned, disinfected and pre‑cooled to the target temperature before loading – the cooling unit is not intended for rapid cooling of warm cargo.
- Pre‑cooling is essential for maintaining product quality and energy efficiency.
Proper packaging and loading of goods
- Place goods on pallets and leave gaps between them and the walls for free airflow.
- Do not stack cargo beyond the marked “red line” – this prevents blockage of air recirculation.
- Stabilize cargo with dunnage, but always preserve airflow.
- Wrap pallets with stretch film that has holes to allow cold air passage.
Securing and safety of the cargo
- Use straps, nets, safety inserts and locks to prevent cargo movement.
- Ensure even weight distribution (important for container stability and crew safety).
Monitoring and documentation
- Use data loggers inside the cargo – proof of cold‑chain compliance.
- Label all goods with precise handling instructions.
- Comply with all international and local regulations (e.g., ATP, GDP for pharmaceuticals).
Regular maintenance and hygiene
- After each transport (or at regular intervals for long‑term storage) clean and disinfect the container thoroughly.
- Check door seals, insulation condition, electronics functionality and safety elements.
- Regular technical inspections extend equipment life and reduce risk of failure during transport.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between a shipping refrigerated container and a storage refrigerated container?
A shipping container has a valid CSC plate and is intended for international transport. A storage container is usually older, may lack a valid certificate, and is used mainly for stationary storage.
How long can a refrigerated container retain temperature without power?
A fully loaded and well‑insulated container can maintain an acceptable temperature for several hours (4–8 h), depending on external conditions. Generators are available for longer outages.
Are modern refrigerated containers energy‑efficient?
Yes, especially models with Microlink 3 and similar systems – they optimise consumption and allow remote monitoring. Proper pre‑cooling and loading significantly reduce operating costs.
What is the service life of a refrigerated container?
With regular maintenance and proper use, the lifespan is 15–25 years, longer for secondary (stationary) use.
What is the ecological footprint of operation?
New containers use eco‑friendly refrigerants and optimized insulation materials, reducing environmental impact.
Practical examples and specific applications in various sectors
Food industry:
Fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, finished products – ensuring freshness even across continents.
Pharmacy:
Medicines, vaccines, blood derivatives – absolute need for detailed monitoring and regular audits.
Breweries and bakeries:
Excess stocks, raw materials, temporary storage during equipment failure, capacity expansion.
Forestry and nursery:
Seeds, seedlings, forest saplings for storage and stratification before planting.
Floriculture:
Extending shelf life of cut flowers and plants for export.
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