What temperature range does a reefer hold?

Typically −30 °C to +30 °C set point, held within about ±0.25 °C by the unit; some specialised units go to −60 °C.

Does a reefer need external power?

Yes — on board and at terminals it plugs into 3-phase power; on the road it runs from a generator set (genset) on the chassis.

Why is reefer freight more expensive?

Power consumption, plug availability, pre-trip inspections and the equipment itself all add cost — typically 2–4× dry rates on the same lane.

Equipment guide

20rf

20ft Reefer Container (20' RF)

Temperature-controlled from −30 °C to +30 °C for perishables

The 20ft reefer is an insulated container with an integrated refrigeration unit, holding any set point from about −30 °C to +30 °C. The machinery and insulation cost interior space (≈28.3 m³) but the payload stays high, making it ideal for dense chilled or frozen food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals needing stable temperatures.

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External dimensions

Length	6,058 mm	19'11"
Width	2,438 mm	8'
Height	2,591 mm	8'6"

Internal dimensions

Length	5,444 mm	17'10"
Width	2,294 mm	7'6"
Height	2,276 mm	7'6"
Door opening (W × H)	2,290 × 2,264 mm	7'6" × 7'5"

Weights & capacity

Tare weight	3,080 kg	6,790 lb
Max payload	27,400 kg	60,407 lb
Max gross weight	30,480 kg	67,197 lb
Cubic capacity	28.3 m³	999 ft³

Pallet capacity (single tier)

Euro pallets (1200 × 800 mm)

Standard pallets (1200 × 1000 mm)

Typical cargo & use cases

Frozen and chilled foods: meat, fish, dairy, produce
Pharmaceuticals and temperature-sensitive chemicals
Dates, saffron-adjacent produce and other Iranian perishable exports

Loading tips

Never stack above the red load line — air must circulate over the cargo to hold temperature.
Pre-cool the cargo, not the container — reefers maintain temperature, they don't pull it down.
Use T-floor-friendly packaging (ventilated cartons) for produce that respires.

Frequently asked questions

What temperature range does a reefer hold?: Typically −30 °C to +30 °C set point, held within about ±0.25 °C by the unit; some specialised units go to −60 °C.
Does a reefer need external power?: Yes — on board and at terminals it plugs into 3-phase power; on the road it runs from a generator set (genset) on the chassis.
Why is reefer freight more expensive?: Power consumption, plug availability, pre-trip inspections and the equipment itself all add cost — typically 2–4× dry rates on the same lane.

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