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40ft Refrigerated Container Dimensions
For businesses in Scotland requiring substantial cold storage capacity, the 40ft refrigerated container (reefer) is the industry standard. Shipping Containers of Grangemouth supplies these high-specification units to food processors, pharmaceutical companies, and logistics firms. Whether you need to maintain frozen goods at steady sub-zero temperatures or keep fresh produce chilled, our 40ft reefers offer precise thermal control and massive volume.
These units are built to ISO shipping standards. This ensures they are wind- and watertight, secure, and suitable for both international transport and on-site static storage. We supply 40ft reefers from our depots in Grangemouth, Glasgow, and Edinburgh, ensuring rapid delivery nationwide.
Technical Specifications
Understanding the exact dimensions of a 40ft reefer is vital for planning your site layout and loading requirements. Unlike standard containers, reefers have internal insulation and machinery that slightly reduce the interior width and length.
| Description | Imperial | Metric |
|---|---|---|
| External Length | 40ft | 12.192 m |
| External Width | 8ft | 2.438 m |
| External Height | 8ft 6in | 2.591 m |
| Internal Length | 37ft 11in | 11.557 m |
| Internal Width | 7ft 6in | 2.286 m |
| Internal Height | 7ft 5in | 2.250 m |
| Door Opening Width | 7ft 6in | 2.286 m |
| Door Opening Height | 7ft 3in | 2.210 m |
| Cubic Capacity | 2,040 cu ft | 57.8 m³ |
| Max Payload | 64,350 lbs | 29,190 kg |
| Tare Weight | 9,700 lbs | 4,400 kg |
Note: Internal dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer (Carrier, Thermo King, or Daikin) and the unit's age. Always confirm specific measurements with our team if you have critical fit requirements.
Power and Operational Requirements
Operating a 40ft refrigerated container requires a specific electrical setup. Unlike domestic appliances, these industrial units run on 3-phase power (380/440V, 32A). You must ensure your site has a suitable 5-pin ISO socket outlet with a D-curve circuit breaker.
The integrated cooling machinery typically occupies the front 2-3 feet of the container’s length, accounting for the difference between the external and internal lengths. For sites without access to 3-phase electricity, we can supply separate diesel generators (clip-on gensets), though these are generally recommended for transport or temporary short-term use rather than permanent static storage.
Key Features and Applications
The 40ft reefer is the workhorse of the cold chain logistics network. Its design prioritises thermal efficiency and cargo protection.
T-Bar Flooring
Reefers feature a specialised aluminium T-bar floor. This raised profile allows cold air to circulate beneath the cargo, ensuring an even temperature throughout the container. It is strong enough to support pallet truck operations, provided you use boards to protect the floor during loading.
Temperature Range
Our units can maintain temperatures ranging from -40°C to +45°C. This flexibility makes them suitable for a diverse range of industries:
- Food & Drink: Bulk storage of frozen meats, seafood, dairy, and seasonal produce.
- Pharmaceuticals: Strict temperature control for vaccines and medicines.
- Chemicals: Storage of temperature-sensitive industrial compounds.
- Events: Temporary cold rooms for festivals and catering operations.
Delivery and Site Access
Delivering a 40ft container requires significant space. We transport these units using articulated lorries equipped with a HIAB crane. The vehicle has a total length of approximately 60ft and requires a wide turning radius.
To offload the container, the truck must park parallel to the landing site. You should allow for a total straight-line clearance of roughly 100ft to accommodate the truck and the container during the lifting process. The ground must be hard-standing (concrete or asphalt) and level. Delivery onto soft ground, such as grass or mud, is not possible due to the vehicle's extreme weight and the laden container.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need 3-phase power for a 40ft reefer?
Yes, standard 40ft refrigerated containers operate on a 3-phase 380/440V supply. They cannot run on a standard domestic 13A plug. If you do not have 3-phase power on site, you will need to hire a diesel generator or consult an electrician to upgrade your supply.
How many pallets fit in a 40ft refrigerated container?
A standard 40ft reefer can hold approximately 23 Euro pallets (1200mm x 800mm) or 20 Standard pallets (1200mm x 1000mm). The internal width is slightly narrower than a standard dry container due to the insulation, so careful loading planning is essential.
Can I use the container as a freezer and a chiller?
Yes, the temperature controller is fully adjustable. You can set the unit to freeze goods at -25°C or chill them at +4°C. However, the container is a single zone, meaning the entire internal space will be maintained at the one temperature you select.
Are the containers noisy?
The refrigeration machinery includes a compressor and fans, which generate noise similar to a large commercial air conditioning unit. While modern units are quieter, we recommend placing the container away from noise-sensitive areas such as residential boundaries or office windows.
Does the container need a "pre-trip" inspection (PTI)?
If you are using the container for export shipping, a valid PTI certificate is required to verify that the machinery is functioning correctly. For static storage hire in Scotland, we test all units before delivery to ensure they are cooling correctly, but a formal shipping PTI is only needed for international transport.
