Refrigerated shipping containers - or reefer containers - feature advanced built-in refrigeration systems that can cool or heat the interior to maintain precise temperature settings across a wide range. Multi-temperature settings range from -40C to +30C, with a dehumidification mode capable of maintaining temperatures up to +50C. Thick insulated walls with a sealing-free, hygienic interior minimise heat transfer and make the units easy to clean.

These containers are equipped with advanced monitoring systems to regulate and remotely track humidity and temperature, giving operators peace of mind during transit or static storage. They are compatible with shore power supply (380V/50Hz to 460V/60Hz) and clip-on generator sets (gensets) for uninterrupted operation in off-grid locations. Internal red line indicators mark the correct air circulation level.

Reefer containers are used across food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, floriculture, cosmetics, and biotechnology sectors. Willbox refrigerated container hire and sales options are available flexibly to meet both short-term and long-term requirements.

Learn more about shipping container sizes and their applications.

• Food and beverage storage: Maintain the freshness and safety of chilled or frozen produce, meat, dairy, seafood, and beverages during storage and transport.
• Pharmaceutical and healthcare: Preserve vaccines, medicines, biological samples, and medical supplies requiring strict temperature control throughout the supply chain.
• Floriculture and horticulture: Keep flowers, plants, and horticultural products fresh during long-distance transport or temporary on-site storage.
• Laboratory and biotechnology: Store biopharmaceutical products, lab samples, and reagents in a controlled, hygienic environment.
• Frozen goods logistics: Run chilled or frozen logistics operations with a reliable, energy-efficient reefer container that maintains consistent temperatures.
• Cosmetics and beauty products: Transport and store temperature-sensitive beauty and skincare products that require cool, controlled conditions.‍
• Chemical storage: Safely store temperature-sensitive chemicals and laboratory samples in a certified, controlled environment.

1. Should I hire or buy a refrigerated container?

Hire is well suited to seasonal demand or short-term cold storage projects, while buying makes sense for ongoing operations that need a reefer year-round. Willbox offers both hire and purchase across 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft sizes, so you can match the commitment to how long you'll actually need it.

2. What size refrigerated container do I need, 10ft, 20ft, or 40ft?

A 10ft reefer suits smaller sites or overflow chilled storage, a 20ft covers most food, pharma, or floristry operations, and a 40ft is built for bulk or high-volume cold chain needs. If you're not sure, tell us your product type and volume and we'll recommend a size.

3. What power supply does a refrigerated container need on site?

Reefers run on shore power (380V/50Hz to 460V/60Hz) or a clip-on generator set for off-grid locations, so check what's available on site before ordering. This keeps the unit running continuously during transit or static storage without gaps in temperature control.

4. How precise is the temperature control, and can it handle frozen and chilled goods in the same unit?

Willbox reefers maintain settings from -40C to +30C, with a dehumidification mode up to +50C, and built-in monitoring so you can track temperature and humidity remotely. This range covers everything from frozen goods to chilled produce and temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals.

5. Can a refrigerated container be used for anything other than food storage?

Yes. Beyond food and beverage, our reefers are used for pharmaceuticals, floriculture, cosmetics, biotechnology, and temperature-sensitive chemical storage. The hygienic, sealing-free interior makes them easy to clean between different types of cargo.

6. What do I need to consider when scheduling delivery of a refrigerated container?

Alongside the usual access and level-base requirements for HIAB or flatbed delivery, you'll need to plan for a nearby power connection, either shore power or a clip-on generator set, so the unit can start regulating temperature as soon as it's positioned. Willbox can advise on siting the container close to your power source to avoid extra cabling runs.