Available in most major metropolitan areas in the country, refrigerated containers for rent have become a very popular way to store cold items. With the ability to maintain a controlled temperature, a refrigerated shipping container can be used for a wide array of uses. This guide will provide all the essential information about renting a cold storage container in your area.

Often called “reefers”, refrigerated containers are insulated storage containers equipped with a cooling system to provide extra functionality. Engineered to withstand the most extreme conditions of overseas travel, these strong and durable units are built for outdoor use, but can be easily placed inside a warehouse for indoor cold storage. Worksites, festivals, and businesses with seasonal storage demands regularly utilize refrigerated shipping containers especially for perishable goods such as meat, seafood, vegetables, fruits and flowers.

A Few Questions to Consider Before Ordering:

How long will you need the refrigerated container?

If long term storage is needed, consider buying a shipping container. But If the unit is needed for only a short amount of time, portable storage for rent is an excellent option. Renting is cost effective by giving individuals and businesses the ability to expense the rental over a monthly basis without initially spending thousands of dollars. Plus, a refrigerated shipping container rental provides flexibility. If neighbors might react negatively to the presence of a container, we strongly recommend a refrigerated shipping container rental.

Do you have enough power?

A refrigerated container’s all electric cooling system operates using either 208V/230V 3-Phase or 440/460V 3-Phase power. If you are going to run 208/230 you will need a dedicated 50AMP Circuit. If you are going to run 440/460 you will need a dedicated 30AMP circuit. Electric powered, these containers are an excellent alternative to diesel powered units. If you are uncertain about power capabilities, contact an electrician before ordering.

Is your location ready for delivery?

20ft and 40ft are the most common refrigerated shipping container sizes. But when considering which size is best for you, please consider space available at the delivery location. Twice the length of the container plus 10 feet in a straight line is needed for a successful delivery using a "tilt bed" roll-off style truck or trailer. Also, make sure the land is level. If not, the doors may not open and close easily. Wood blocks under the container is a good solution if you plan to place a container on uneven land.

Size Options

20ft and 40ft are the most common refrigerated shipping container sizes. With the ability to fit in a single parking space and be transported by a small maneuverable vehicle, the 20ft shipping container has become the standard for commercial storage needs. Double the size, the 40ft shipping container is able to meet any and all cold storage demands. If you want to separate your refrigerated goods you may want to consider utilizing multiple 20ft Refrigerated Containers.

Refrigerated Container Rental Rates

Rental costs range depending on shipping container dimensions. When renting a refrigerated container, considering the rental period is important. The standard equipment lease is a 28 day term but rental periods can vary with daily, weekly, and monthly rates. Refrigerated Container Rentals rates range from around $700 to $1500 per billing cycle. Contact a Container Alliance partner today for a quote.

Controlled Temperature

Refrigerated containers provided by Container Alliance can maintain a designated temperature ranging between -20 degrees Fahrenheit and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Controls allow you to set internal temperature to an exact temperature. Contents of a refrigerated storage container will maintain a temperature with precision and consistency. Keep in mind refrigerated containers are designed to maintain the temperature of the products they contain, not lower it. It is important that you bring goods to temperature prior to loading inside the container.

Strong Build

Built with corten steel, refrigerated shipping containers have the same basic outside dimensions as standard shipping containers. However, because all refrigerated containers are insulated, reefer containers have smooth sides. Reefers also have aluminum floors (unlike standard containers, with wood floors). Aluminum floors and stainless steel walls are more hygienic and easier to clean. These containers also come standard with lockable double doors on one end and durable t-rail flooring.

Good Uses

Often called “reefers”, refrigerated containers are ideal for shipping or storing perishable goods such as meat, seafood, vegetables, fruits and flowers. Make sure to cool your unit before loading it. Dependable and durable, these units are designed for outdoor use, but can be easily placed inside a warehouse for indoor cold storage. For this reason, worksites, festivals, and businesses with seasonal storage demands regularly utilize refrigerated shipping containers.

Air Flow

Refrigerated Containers rely on air flow. Do not load your container floor to ceiling or create walls of content that will not allow cold air to circulate through the container to maintain temperature. Keep in mind the refrigeration machine is on the opposite end from the cargo doors so the air will need to circulate throughout the container. Refrigerated containers are equipped with T-Channel aluminum flooring that do allow for circulation at floor level but it's also important to not load the container to interior ceiling height to maintain air flow.

Refrigerated Rental Guide