Many who work in certain industries often ask this question – can you store temperature-sensitive goods in a reefer container?
This question comes as different types of temperature-sensitive goods require different temperature treatments. Temperature is one of the greatest risks to consider when it comes to safe storage.
They can be extremely sensitive to temperature and humidity variations and could be damaged if not stored in the ideal conditions.
Therefore, you need a reefer container to handle this condition. Reefer containers function as storage containers for shipping goods that are easily damaged or easily rotten if exposed to hot temperatures, certain humidity levels, or other conditions for a long period.
It can maintain the temperature in the container according to your desired temperature, and can even also reach extreme cold temperatures of up to -22°F or -30°C.
Curious about what kind of goods can you store in a reefer container? Find out in this article!
What is a Reefer Container?
Reefer containers, short for refrigerated containers, are used to store goods that can be damaged or rot if left at normal temperatures. Several business sectors, from fisheries to chemicals, use reefer containers to meet their needs. Meat, fruit, vegetables, milk, health drinks, and medicines are some examples of popular products that require reefer containers.
Reefer containers have a cooling system that aims to maintain the temperature conditions inside the container according to its use and function. They also can maintain internal temperatures at the desired level, making them a staple across so many professional industries.
Why Use a Reefer Container for Temperature-Sensitive Goods?
Here are the benefits of using a reefer container to store temperature-sensitive goods for every industry:
Portable
Reefer containers are portable. It means that you can move the containers to almost any location where an event or activity takes place, from city streets or parking lots to open fields.
Not only that, the purchase of new refrigerated container units that meet ISO standards is equipped with a CSC plate. The plate is useful for international shipping purposes.
Rentable or Purchasable
You can rent one or more refrigerated container units. This is very useful for those of you who only need cold storage for short-term use. However, if you need storage for a long period, then buying a reefer container is the best choice.
Can Store Goods With Different Temperatures
There are types of reefer containers that can be partitioned and divided into two rooms with different temperatures.
You can use a reefer container type that can be adjusted to store various products at different temperatures. With that, you can store frozen food and cold drinks at different temperatures in the same refrigerator or refrigerated container.
This will benefit you in saving your budget even though you have different temperature requirements for your items.
Multipurpose Storage
Refrigerated containers are ideal for storing seasonal plants, frozen seafood, dairy products, or fruits. Not only that, the use of cold storage is also common to store temperature-sensitive materials.
One example is storing medicines, chemicals, and film-making equipment such as cameras and so on. The hotel, restaurant, or catering industries often use this to meet their needs.
Saves Time and Affordable Prices
Containers with refrigerated insulation are the right choice for those of you who need cold storage to save costs. A reefer container is a cheaper option than building a cold storage facility from scratch.
The price of used refrigerated containers can be a wise choice if you have a limited budget. Conventional buildings that are then filled with cooling machines will cost more and take more time.
Plus, building a mass cold room certainly takes longer than building cold reefer container storage. You can get the cold room you need immediately with a reefer container.
Flexible to Expand
Reefer Containers have a modular design. If you need a larger cold storage space, you can easily install several other refrigerated containers and expand your storage. These refrigerated containers are available in sizes of 10’, 20’, and 40’ high cubes.
The dimensions of the 20’ reefer container are quite commonly used, with external dimensions of L 20′ x W 8′ x H 8.6′ with a maximum gross weight of 67,200 lbs or 30,480 kg.
Durable and Strong to Use
Reefer containers are built using strong materials to withstand harsh sea conditions. It made them weather resistant and can be used for a long time with adequate maintenance. The interior of the container includes a T-Bar floor, baffle plate, and stainless steel wall panels to ensure perfect circulation of cool air inside.
Furthermore, you can also add other features such as an alarm, curtain, LED light, or GPS.
Goods That Can Be Stored in Reefer Containers
Because reefer containers can store goods in temperatures from -22°F (-30°C) to 86°F (30°C), they are ideal for a variety of perishable or sensitive items, such as:
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are one of the many products or goods from the agricultural sector that are exported abroad. They can get damaged and rotten easily if you store them at inappropriate temperatures.
Similar considerations apply if you ship fruits and vegetables over long distances and send them for a long time. Refrigerated containers are the best option for shipping fruits and vegetables, by setting them at a temperature between 77°F (25°C) and 50°F (10°C).
Processed Products, Butter, Cheese or Milk
Some dairy products or processed milk products, such as butter, cheese, and milk must be stored at certain temperatures. If you store them in a room with a temperature that does not match their needs, they are susceptible to damage and mold growth.
As a food product that is widely used throughout the world, milk is an important product and its quality must be maintained. So the use of refrigerated containers is a vital need for business people in this sector.
You can store processed products, butter, to packaged milk using refrigerated containers at temperatures of 32°F (0°C) to 44.6°F (7°C).
Medicines
Medicines that are distributed throughout the world are generally shipped using reefer containers. Various types of drugs such as pills, liquids, and creams require a certain temperature to supply them to several destination locations. The recommended storage temperature for this type of item is between 59°F (15°C) and 86°F (30°C).
Proper storage methods and environmental elements such as oxygen exposure, lighting, temperature, and humidity will affect medicine quality. Refrigerated containers not only maintain their interior at a constant temperature but also allow for the regulation of humidity and airflow.
Therefore, the use of refrigerated containers is very appropriate for shipping medicines.
Meat and Fish
Various types of meat and fish need to be stored in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life. This is related to the theory that low temperatures can stop the growth of bacteria that can harm fish and meat.
Therefore, you need to store this type of item at a very low temperature, between -13°F (-25°C) and -0,4°F (-18°C).
Plants and Flowers
Plants and flowers are exported or imported using reefer containers. They require a stable room temperature, not too hot, and not too cold. Temperature settings in refrigerated containers can set the temperature between 50°F (10°C) to 86°F (30°C), depending on the type of plant being brought.
Conclusion
After such a lengthy breakdown, can you store temperature-sensitive goods in a reefer container?
Yes, you can! It’s all because reefer containers are specifically designed to maintain precise temperature control for perishable or sensitive items in the first place.
If you are looking for a reefer container, buy now at Tradecorp! Standing at the top of the industry, Tradecorp is widely known for its high-quality containers open for so many applications. Fill out our quote form and we’ll guide you in finding the best container for your business goals!