What are the main differences between standard shipping containers and refrigerated containers?

Standard (dry) container:

• Ambient temperature — no temperature control
• No power connection needed
• Cost: $800–2,000 (China–USA) base ocean freight for 20GP

Reefer (refrigerated) container:

• Has an integrated refrigeration unit (Carrier Transicold or Daikin)
• Can maintain temperatures from -30°C to +30°C
• Requires continuous power (from vessel, terminal, or genset during land transport)
• Volume slightly less than dry (typically 28–30 CBM internal vs 33 CBM for 20GP dry)
• Cost premium: 20–50% above dry freight rates + electricity surcharge ($400–800 for long voyages)

What to specify when booking a reefer:

• Temperature setpoint (exact °C)
• Humidity requirement (for produce)
• CA (Controlled Atmosphere) requirement — for fruits needing Oâ‚‚/COâ‚‚ balance
• Ventilation setting (for cargo that needs fresh air exchange)
• Defrost cycle requirements

Before stuffing:

• Pre-cool the container to setpoint before loading — never load warm cargo into a running reefer
• The reefer maintains temperature; it doesn't lower it after loading
• Use a temperature data logger inside for documentary evidence of cold chain compliance
• For frozen food: maintain -18°C. For fresh produce: typically +2°C to +8°C depending on commodity