Buy Reefer Container
Reefer containers: how to buy refrigerated shipping containers
Refrigerated containers – or “reefer containers” as they are often called – are a staple of fast-moving modern business. When it comes to perishable goods, maintaining the cold chain is vital for product quality and safety.
Based in Hamburg harbour, we at MT Container GmbH are the first port of call when it comes to buying or renting refrigerated shipping containers. And we are also the natural choice for advising customers on which cooler container is best suited to their individual needs.
What is the most important thing to consider when buying a reefer container?
Cost-effectiveness is key when choosing a refrigerated container. This means deciding what size reefer container you need, what functions you want it to perform and whether you would like it modified for your individual needs.
Would a basic, stationary model suffice or are you looking for a state-of-the-art shipping reefer container that can be used to transport even the most sensitive products?
What are the different types of refrigerated containers?
Reefer containers come in many different sizes and specifications depending on their intended use. Our refrigerated containers range from compact 10-, 20- and 40-feet models to 40- and 45-feet high-cube containers for maximum load capacity. Also have a look at our table of reefer container sizes indicating the exact dimensions.
We also have a whole host of additional features that we can use to modify our reefer containers to suit your exact needs.
What temperature ranges are covered?
Our customers often add optional extras to optimise their refrigerated containers. While some have electrical outlets and lighting installed, others opt for strip curtains that keep the temperature constant whenever the interior is opened.
Container sizes
| Container Type | External dimensions mm (LxWxH) | Internal dimensions mm (LxWxH) | Door opening mm (LxH) | Volume m³ | Weight kg | Pallet Spaces | ISO Type Code | ISO Group key |
| 45 feet High Cube Reefer container | 13.716 x 2.550 x 2.896 | 13.316 x 2.440 x 2.567 | 2.440 x2.567 | 83.9 | Empty weight: 6.090 Additional load: 27.910 Total weight: 34.000 | 33 | 45 R1 | 45 RT |
| 40 feet High Cube Reefer container | 12.192 x 2.438 x 2.896 | 11.550 x 2.290 x 2.545 | 2.290 x 2.557 | 67.5 | Empty weight: 4.660 Additional load: 29.340| Total weight: 34.000 | 23 | 45 R1 | 45 RT |
| 40 feet Reefer container | 12.192 x 2.436 x 2.591 | 11.577 x 2.294 x 2.110 | 2.294 x 2.174 | 59.8 | Empty weight: 3.900 Additional load: 28.600 Total weight: 32.500 | 23 | 45 R1 | 45 RT |
| 20 feet Reefer container | 6.058 x 2.438 x 2.591 | 5.456 x 2.294 x 2.263 | 2.290 x 2.264 | 28.4 | Empty weight: 2.900 Additional load: 27.600 Total weight: 30.480 | 10 bis 12 | 22 R1 | 22 RT |
| 10 feet Reefer container | 3.050 x 2.438 x 2.591 | 2.383 x 2.190 x 2.291 | 2.291 x 2.259 | 12 | Empty weight: 2.250 Additional load: 7.910 Total weight: 10.160 kg | 5 | 12 R1 | 12 RT |
Common Applications of Refrigerated Containers
One of the greatest advantages of reefer containers is their versatility. Industries far beyond just food shipping have found innovative uses for refrigerated containers. Below we outline some of the most common applications and sectors where our refrigerated containers provide critical cold storage or controlled climate solutions:
Events, Festivals & Catering
Reefer containers provide on-site cold storage for food, beverages, and perishable goods during festivals, sports events, trade fairs, and catering operations. They ensure consistent temperatures even in outdoor or high-traffic settings, making them ideal for storing beer kegs, meats, dairy, and fresh produce throughout the event.
Food & Beverage Industry
In food production and distribution, reefer containers are essential for maintaining the cold chain. They store ingredients or finished goods in bakeries, dairies, seafood operations, breweries, and wholesale food hubs. Used as mobile or on-site cold rooms, they help preserve product quality and prevent spoilage.
Agriculture & Farming
Refrigerated containers are used to cool freshly harvested crops, store meat from livestock or game, and preserve dairy products on farms. Farmers rely on them to extend shelf life, manage seasonal surpluses, and ensure stable conditions for temperature-sensitive produce right at the source.
Chemical & Pharmaceutical Storage
The pharmaceutical and chemical sectors use reefer containers to store temperature-sensitive products like vaccines, lab reagents, and specialty chemicals. These containers maintain precise climate conditions, protect product stability, and comply with hygiene and safety regulations (e.g. HACCP, GMP).
Can reefer containers be modified to my needs?
Our customers often add optional extras to optimise their refrigerated containers. While some have electrical outlets and lighting installed, others opt for strip curtains that keep the temperature constant whenever the interior is opened.
But how about your business?
If you’re looking to buy a refrigerated container, let us help you make the process easy and tailored to your needs. Our friendly experts can walk you through selecting the right container size, deciding between new or used, and any customization you might need. We’ll provide a transparent quote and timeline for delivery to your site. Contact our team today to discuss your requirements. We’re available by phone or email, and can also arrange in-person meetings at our Hamburg headquarters or via video call for international clients.
Secure reliable cold storage for your business with a quality MT Container reefer container – we look forward to helping you keep your operations cool and running efficiently!