Used 40ft Refrigerated Shipping Container
Overview
A Used 40ft Refrigerated Shipping Container (also known as a “reefer”) is the reliable cold storage solution for businesses needing on-site, portable refrigeration — whether for backup, overflow, or long-term operations. While these units show visible signs of use such as cosmetic wear and minor dents, their cooling systems are tested and functional, and the insulated interiors remain sealed and performance-ready.
If you’re in agriculture, seafood, meat distribution, events, or pharma logistics, this container offers a cost-effective way to keep perishable goods fresh — without the need for permanent infrastructure.
Common Uses:
✅ Backup walk-in freezer or fridge
✅ Produce and meat cold storage at warehouses
✅ Dairy or floral industry stock overflow
✅ On-site refrigeration for farms and grocers
✅ Pharmaceutical or vaccine transit and storage
📐 Technical Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| External Dimensions | 40′ L × 8′ W × 9’6″ H |
| Internal Dimensions | 37’11″ L × 7’6″ W × 8’4″ H |
| Door Opening | 7’6″ W × 8’4″ H |
| Cubic Capacity | Approx. 2,350–2,650 cubic feet |
| Tare Weight | ~9,800 – 11,000 lbs (varies by model) |
| Insulation | Polyurethane Foam / Sandwiched Panel Walls |
| Floor Type | Aluminum T-rail (easy airflow, forklift safe) |
| Power Supply | 460V 3-Phase / 230V converters available |
| Temperature Range | -20°F to +70°F (may vary by unit) |
| Condition | Used / Cargo-Worthy |
| Cooling Unit Brand | Carrier, Thermo King, Daikin (varies by stock) |
❄️ Cooling Performance & System Integrity
Our used 40ft refrigerated containers are carefully selected and pre-inspected to ensure they meet functional standards for cold storage applications. Every unit undergoes a cooling system test prior to sale, verifying that the refrigeration unit powers on properly, achieves target temperatures, and holds those temperatures consistently across operational cycles.
These units are not newly built or remanufactured. Instead, they are cargo-worthy used reefers that have previously served in global transport and remain in solid working condition. While signs of use are visible (such as surface scuffs or fading paint), the refrigeration core remains structurally sound and functionally reliable for continued use in commercial or industrial cold chain settings.
Here’s what we guarantee from each container’s cooling system:
The compressor — the heart of the cooling unit — is tested for full cycling behavior and pressure stability. The evaporator coil, which absorbs heat from inside the container, is checked for:
- Clean airflow across fins
- Ice-free operation during testing
- Balanced temperature pull-down performance
These components ensure your container can consistently chill to required cold-storage temperatures.
All units include a built-in digital control panel, allowing users to set, monitor, and adjust internal temperatures (often within the range of -20°F to +70°F, depending on model). While cosmetic signs of wear on buttons or panels may exist, the units retain:
- Proper display readouts
- Functional alarms (on select models)
- Temperature setting calibration
- Start/stop and cycle mode control
Optional interior lighting, when available, is also tested to ensure usability during loading or inspection.
Temperature efficiency is only possible when insulation is intact. Our reefers are built with high-density polyurethane foam panels, which are checked for:
- Compression and rigidity
- Internal delamination (none permitted)
- Mold- and pest-free interiors
The insulated walls, ceiling, and floor work together to form a sealed thermal envelope, ensuring minimal thermal loss during long-term use — even in hot climates.
A critical component often overlooked in used reefers is the door gasket system. All containers are inspected to confirm:
- Doors close tightly and latch correctly
- Gaskets create a reliable airtight seal
- No daylight visible at door seams
- No moisture intrusion or freeze-thaw cracking
This ensures your container retains consistent internal temperatures and blocks humidity or heat from entering.
Units are inspected for:
- Refrigerant containment (no visible oil or coolant leaks)
- Condensate drainage, to prevent pooling and ensure airflow
- Blower function, to evenly distribute cool air from front to rear
Any unit showing signs of pressure loss, drainage malfunction, or refrigerant instability is removed from resale consideration.
Used reefer containers are offered as-is, in cargo-worthy condition — they are not cosmetically restored or refurbished. We focus on operational reliability, not aesthetics. That means while you may see exterior dents, scuffs, or paint discoloration, the refrigeration system and structural insulation remain functionally dependable for temperature-sensitive storage.
🔎 What to Expect From a Used Reefer
Choosing a used 40ft refrigerated shipping container is one of the most cost-effective ways to gain access to industrial-grade cold storage — especially when brand-new or one-trip units fall outside budget considerations. While these containers have seen several years of active service in the global cold chain, they still offer reliable performance where it counts most: maintaining temperature stability and protecting your goods.
That said, setting the right expectations is key. These units are priced lower because they’ve already spent years in circulation — typically as part of international shipping fleets — and as such, they may show signs of wear that are purely cosmetic and non-structural.
Here’s a closer look at what you can confidently expect from a used reefer:
Each unit undergoes a pre-sale operational test to ensure the refrigeration system powers on, cools effectively, and maintains temperature across the full range (typically from -20°F to +70°F). Compressors, evaporators, and fans are inspected and confirmed to be in working condition prior to delivery.
The inner walls, ceiling, and floor are made with insulated sandwich panels designed to retain cold air and block outside heat. These panels remain sealed and structurally intact, ensuring consistent thermal performance even with cosmetic blemishes.
Given their shipping history, most used reefers will have visible wear, such as:
- Exterior dents or small dings
- Minor rust spots, especially near hinges and corners
- Scuff marks or faded labeling from previous operators
These flaws do not compromise the functionality of the container but should be expected from any used steel equipment of this type.
The container’s outer paint may be weathered or faded after years at sea and under sun exposure. Some units may still carry original branding or container line markings (e.g., Maersk, CMA CGM, etc.). This has no impact on its performance and can often be covered with paint upon request.
The internal or external control unit may show signs of age — including worn buttons, scratched screens, or faded labels — but remains functionally intact. Our team tests that digital and manual controls respond appropriately and hold temperature settings.
If exterior appearance or branding is important for your site or business, we can provide paint touch-up, rebranding, or cosmetic enhancements for an additional fee.
If aesthetics, freshness, or long-term investment is critical to your operation — particularly for customer-facing setups, medical applications, or mobile units — we recommend exploring our One Trip Refrigerated Containers. These offer all the benefits of a brand-new build at a more favorable price point than factory-direct units, with minimal visual wear.
🧩 Use Cases That Demand a Used 40ft Reefer
The Used 40ft Refrigerated Shipping Container (reefer) is one of the most versatile cold-chain assets available in the market. With its large internal volume, sealed insulation, and integrated temperature control, this container serves as a mobile cold room — ideal for businesses that need cost-effective refrigeration without committing to permanent infrastructure or high upfront costs for new builds.
Because it combines affordability, mobility, and functionality, the 40ft used reefer is a go-to solution across a wide spectrum of industries. Its performance holds up under both commercial and industrial use, particularly where dependable temperature regulation is critical.
📦 Industry-Specific Applications
Agricultural producers and food wholesalers often use 40ft reefers to extend the shelf life of perishable goods like apples, greens, tomatoes, eggs, and milk. Whether located on a farm, processing plant, or distribution center, the container ensures that produce remains fresh during peak harvest or transit overflow.
- Keeps perishable stock at stable temperatures during hot seasons
- Ideal for buffer stock before transport or market distribution
- Prevents spoilage from exposure to fluctuating ambient conditions
The meat and seafood industries demand precise and uninterrupted cold chains. Used 40ft refrigerated containers provide a reliable backup or full-time storage solution for items such as beef cuts, poultry, and frozen fish.
- Maintains sub-zero conditions for frozen stock
- Ensures compliance with USDA and FDA temperature standards
- Reduces dependency on fixed cold rooms or power-intensive freezers
Fresh-cut flowers are exceptionally sensitive to heat and humidity. A refrigerated container keeps floral products cool, hydrated, and protected from wilting, extending their visual and marketable life.
- Used in distribution hubs, airports, and temporary retail spaces
- Keeps floral arrangements pristine for events or resale
- Compatible with mobile water trays and humidity-controlled storage
In pharmaceutical and life sciences sectors, temperature control isn’t optional — it’s regulatory. From vaccines to lab reagents and temperature-sensitive biologics, a used reefer container provides a sealed, trackable environment that protects against thermal excursions.
- Meets GDP (Good Distribution Practice) storage standards
- Used in field hospitals, disaster response, and clinical trials
- Optional temperature monitoring systems and alarm setups available
Concerts, sporting events, festivals, and large-scale catering setups often need temporary cold storage in locations without permanent facilities. A 40ft reefer can act as a walk-in cooler or freezer at outdoor sites — perfect for drinks, frozen treats, or bulk-prepared food.
- Rapid deployment for seasonal or weekend events
- Doubles as cold bar storage or kitchen support
- Generators or power converters can be integrated for off-grid usage
Many crops — like mushrooms, leafy greens, tubers, or berries — degrade quickly if exposed to uncontrolled heat. Farmers and co-ops use reefers to hold these crops post-harvest or pre-packaging, especially in rural zones where cold infrastructure is limited.
- Reduces waste during harvest season peaks
- Used as mobile “cooling hubs” during produce pickup
- Insulated to resist external heat, even in high-temperature regions
Whether you’re running a commercial cold chain or looking for a standalone cold room on a budget, a Used 40ft Reefer delivers value that new units can’t match. Despite cosmetic wear, these containers maintain cooling performance, structural reliability, and delivery readiness — making them an intelligent choice for operations where temperature matters more than aesthetics.
📍 Nationwide Delivery – From Our Yard to Your Site
We ship coast to coast via our national logistics network. Each order is fulfilled from the nearest depot with reefer inventory to reduce shipping time and cost.
| Region | Estimated Delivery Time | Notes & Depot Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| East Coast | 6–9 business days | Ports and yards in NJ, GA, FL |
| Midwest | 6–10 business days | IL, MO, OH support industrial & rural sites |
| West Coast | 7–12 business days | Coverage from CA, WA, AZ, NV |
🚛 Delivery includes scheduling support and drop coordination.
🛠️ Hookups not included — site electrician may be required.
🚚 Delivery Options – Matched to Your Site Conditions
At 24/7 Container Inc., we recognize that not all delivery sites are created equal — and transporting a nearly 10,000-pound refrigerated container requires precision, planning, and the right equipment. That’s why we offer three proven delivery methods, each selected based on your site’s space, surface, and access capabilities.
This is our most common and preferred delivery option. The truck arrives with the container mounted on a tilt-bed trailer. The driver will raise the front end of the trailer and allow the container to slide off gently onto the ground, using gravity and brakes to control placement.
Best for:
- Flat, accessible areas like parking lots, job sites, farms
- Sites without lifting equipment
- Customers who want direct ground-level access to the container
⚠️ Requires enough forward space for the truck to pull ahead and tilt safely (approx. 80–100 feet of straight clearance)
If your location is equipped with a crane, large forklift, or heavy-duty telehandler, we can dispatch your container via flatbed trailer, which offers a quicker unloading time — but does not provide offloading assistance.
Best for:
- Commercial yards or warehouse sites with forklifts or cranes
- Customers looking to place the container on elevated pads, docks, or foundations
- Installations where the reefer will not sit at ground level
⚠️ Container will remain on the flatbed until offloading is arranged by the customer.
Urban areas, tight residential spaces, or high-elevation placements often demand a crane-assisted delivery. In these cases, a dedicated crane operator will lift and place the container precisely where needed — whether over fences, between buildings, or onto elevated slabs.
Best for:
- Gated areas or alleyways with no truck access
- Installations in densely populated city zones
- Precise placement needs (e.g., on platforms, rooftops, behind buildings)
💡 Let our team know during quoting if your delivery zone includes tight turns, trees, overhead wires, or elevation changes — we’ll factor this into your logistics plan.
📌 Site Access Requirements – Prepare for a Smooth Delivery
To ensure delivery success, your site should meet the minimum access standards listed below. These requirements are based on the size and weight of 40ft refrigerated containers, as well as the safety of our delivery crews.
Minimum 12 feet wide
- This ensures the truck (typically 8’6” wide) can safely turn, reverse, or enter without scraping fences, walls, or vegetation.
Firm and stable surface — ideally:
- Concrete
- Gravel
- Compacted dirt
- Asphalt
⚠️ Mud, soft soil, or loose sand are not suitable, as trucks may sink or containers may settle unevenly.
Minimum 14–15 feet of vertical space
- This allows for tilt bed operation or crane lifting without obstruction
- Check for low-hanging wires, tree branches, or signs that could interfere with the container or equipment
Flat and level area
- A safe, even surface helps ensure proper reefer operation
- Slope or tilt can affect internal drainage or door alignment
If you plan to run the reefer unit onsite, ensure you have:
- 460V 3-phase electrical hookup OR
- Compatible diesel or electric generator (5–15 kW)
💡 Power is not required for delivery itself — only for ongoing refrigeration usage.
💰 Pricing
Region | Price Range (Used 40ft Reefer) |
|---|---|
| East Coast (e.g., NY, NJ) | $6,500 – $8,200 |
| Midwest (e.g., IL, OH) | $6,700 – $8,400 |
| West Coast (e.g., CA, AZ) | $6,800 – $8,600 |
💡 Pricing varies based on reefer brand, year, and condition. Power adapters or generators are not included. Final quote valid for 72 hours.
🧾 What’s Included in Your Purchase
When you purchase a Used 40ft Refrigerated Shipping Container from 24/7 Container Inc., you’re not just buying a steel box — you’re investing in a verified cold chain asset backed by our commitment to functionality, logistics support, and transparency.
Here’s exactly what your purchase includes:
Every unit we deliver is cargo-worthy and cooling-ready. The refrigeration system is fully operational at the time of sale, and the insulated interior is intact with no structural breaches. This container has been pre-inspected, tested, and prepared for practical cold storage applications.
Whether you're storing food, medicine, floral stock, or frozen goods, this unit arrives ready for plug-in and use (with compatible power source).
Before dispatch, each container undergoes a multi-point inspection, including:
- Cooling unit startup and runtime observation
- Temperature hold test to ensure freezing/chilling capacity
- Seal integrity check on doors and gaskets
- Visual check for structural damage, rust, or floor issues
We document the unit's performance and provide this report upon request — so you know exactly what you’re receiving before it arrives.
Cold storage can’t afford delays — and we understand that. Our logistics team works with you to:
- Coordinate delivery windows that match your operational timeline
- Confirm access requirements based on your site layout
- Provide clear communication from quote to drop-off
- Handle special delivery conditions (e.g., crane access, rural routes)
This scheduling support is included in every purchase to ensure zero surprises and on-time delivery.
Need a quick answer, status update, or offloading guidance? You're covered.
You’ll receive direct contact details for your assigned delivery coordinator — no chatbots, no third-party middlemen. Whether you're coordinating with a site manager or planning off-grid access, our team is available by phone and email to guide you from scheduling through post-delivery inspection.
We outfit each container with a high-performance refrigeration unit from one of the world’s leading manufacturers — Carrier, Daikin, or Thermo King. These units are globally supported and include:
- Digital thermostat (Fahrenheit and Celsius)
- Hot gas defrost function
- Humidity control settings (on select models)
- Temperature range typically from -20°F to +70°F
Brand assignment depends on stock availability, but all units are new and covered under warranty.
Once your order is confirmed, we coordinate delivery directly with your team, working around your site availability, access restrictions, and electrical setup (if needed). You’ll receive live scheduling updates and have access to a dedicated support team for pre-delivery prep, startup guidance, and post-delivery questions.
🛠️ Optional Add-ons
Need to adapt your container to specific power or storage needs? These optional upgrades can transform your reefer into a high-performing, tailored cold storage solution.
Most reefer units operate on 460V 3-phase industrial power. If your site doesn’t support that, we offer step-down converters that allow operation with 230V power setups.
Ideal for farms, mobile operations, and events without access to industrial electricity.
Need to organize boxes, bins, or perishables? Install heavy-duty, adjustable shelving systems that work with the container’s aluminum T-rail floors.
A game-changer for:
- Grocers
- Butchers
- Floral or pharma storage
- Caterers or event suppliers
Used reefers often arrive with faded paint, company logos, or external markings.
We can apply:
- Fresh commercial-grade paint
- Your business branding or color scheme
- Rust inhibition coating for harsh environments
This upgrade improves aesthetic appeal and brand consistency, especially for customer-facing installations.
No power on-site? No problem. We offer portable diesel-powered generators that integrate seamlessly with the reefer’s power system — perfect for:
- Remote agricultural operations
- Temporary installations
- Emergency storage during outages
Units are sized appropriately for the power draw of 40ft reefer containers and include basic safety instructions.
🛡️ Limited Warranty – Reefer Units (Used Containers)
Due to the technical complexity and variable age of refrigerated container units, all Used 40ft Refrigerated Shipping Containers are sold “as-is” with a clearly defined, short-term functionality assurance to protect your purchase from critical issues at delivery.
We want to be transparent: these are pre-owned reefer units, meaning they have seen active service and may show signs of wear. However, we inspect and test every unit before shipment to confirm it powers up, cools correctly, and performs within expected temperature ranges.
Every used reefer container comes with a 48-hour post-delivery inspection period. During this time, buyers may confirm that the reefer unit:
- Powers on using the correct power supply
- Begins active cooling and displays internal temperature change
- Cycles through standard compressor operation
- Shows no visible leaks, smoke, error codes, or unsafe behavior
If your unit fails to perform basic refrigeration functions during this period — such as powering on or cooling — and you notify us within the warranty window, we’ll take immediate action to:
🔄 Initiate troubleshooting (remote support by our reefer technicians)
🚚 Offer a swap or replacement from our current used stock (subject to availability)
💵 Offer a partial refund or repair allowance, depending on issue severity and timing
- Inspect your unit promptly upon delivery — power it on and observe cooling performance.
- File a report within 48 hours of confirmed delivery.
- Include visual proof (photos or video) of the issue:
- Failure to power on
- Unresponsive display or control panel
- Cooling unit error codes
- Leaking fluids or refrigerant
📧 All warranty claims must be sent to our support team via the contact method provided in your purchase confirmation email.
This limited warranty does not cover:
- Cosmetic damage (surface rust, faded paint, dents, logos)
- Cooling system malfunctions occurring after the 48-hour window
- Issues caused by incorrect power supply (e.g., connecting 460V units to 230V without a converter)
- Modifications made after delivery
- Environmental or site-related damage (e.g., power surges, flooding, impact)
We always recommend having your site electrician or maintenance team available at delivery to inspect and test the unit in real-time.
This 48-hour limited warranty ensures that your used reefer container functions as expected on arrival. While it doesn’t offer long-term coverage due to the nature of used cooling systems, it does protect you from receiving a unit that fails to power or cool out of the gate.
We’ve designed this policy to be fair, fast, and responsive — because we know how critical refrigeration performance is for your operations.
⚙️ Optional Customization
Want more out of your cold storage solution? We offer:
- Spray insulation and lighting kits
- Exterior security lockboxes
- Partition walls for dual-temp zones
- Wireless temperature monitoring systems
- Solar-assisted cooling options (inquire for details)
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