20ft Refrigerated "Reefer" Container

LACU 210012 22G1 MAX. GROSS 30,480 kg TARE 2,200 kg

2,270 mm
7′ 5 3/8″

5,440 mm
17′ 10 1/8″

2,290 mm
7′ 6 1/8″

LACU 210012 22G1 MAX. GROSS 30,480 kg TARE 2,200 kg

2,100 mm
7′ 6 1/4″

2,230 mm
7′ 3 3/4″

Overview

The 20 ft refrigerated container (also commonly known as 20 ft reefer container) is a temperature-controlled unit used to transport cargo that must stay within a defined set temperature range during transit. Because it relies on powered refrigeration and airflow management, successful shipments depend not only on the equipment specs but also on proper pre-loading practices, correct set point settings, and unobstructed air circulation around the cargo.

Designed for temperature-controlled transport (powered refrigeration)

Performance relies on good airflow and correct loading practices

Suitable for perishables, pharma, and other temperature-sensitive cargo

Specs may vary by manufacturer / container fleet

20 ft Refrigerated Reefer Container Image Gallery

Best for / Not ideal for

Best for	Not ideal for
Perishables (fruit/veg, dairy, meat/seafood) requiring controlled temperature	Cargo that cannot tolerate powered equipment requirements (power supply / genset planning)
Pharmaceuticals and other high-value temperature-sensitive cargo	Loads that will block airflow (e.g., overstuffing, loading above load line)
Cargo requiring airflow management (avoid blocking supply/return air paths)	Cargo needing a wider internal width than reefers typically provide vs. dry containers (pallet plans may be tighter)

Industries & typical commodities

Food & Beverage: fresh produce, dairy products, meat, seafood, frozen foods, and other perishables requiring controlled temperature.
Pharma / Healthcare: medicines, vaccines, and other temperature-sensitive healthcare products.
Chemicals: temperature-sensitive chemicals and materials when compatible with reefer equipment and shipping requirements.
Floriculture: flowers, plants, and other temperature-sensitive horticultural products.
Agricultural products: fruits, vegetables, and other perishables requiring controlled conditions.
Specialty products: other temperature-sensitive cargo requiring powered refrigeration and managed airflow.

Sizes & dimensions – 20ft Refrigerated “Reefer” Container

Dimension	Metric	Imperial
Internal Length	5.44 m	17.85 ft
Internal Width	2.29 m	7.51 ft
Internal Height	2.27 m	7.45 ft
Door Opening Width	2.23 m	7.32 ft
Door Opening Height	2.10 m	6.89 ft

Capacity & weights – 20ft Refrigerated “Reefer” Container

Spec	Metric	Imperial
Cubic Capacity	28.30 m³	999.41 ft³
Tare Weight	3,080 kg	6,790.24 lbs
Payload Capacity	27,400 kg	60,406.66 lbs
Max Gross Weight	30,480 kg	67,196.90 lbs

How many pallets fit in a 20ft Refrigerated “Reefer” Container

Pallet capacity varies by loading pattern and pallet type. Use the estimates below only as a quick reference:

US standard pallets: up to 9

Euro pallets: up to 10

Note: reefers often have reduced usable width vs. dry containers, and airflow/ventilation requirements can reduce usable space. Actual results depend on loading pattern, cargo height, and airflow/overhang constraints.

Handling recommendations

Switch off the power unit during loading operations.

Only accept a clean reefer unit; use adequate packaging and avoid practices that block required air circulation.

Do not stack above the load line; use spacers as needed to stabilize cargo and maintain airflow.

Avoid poor air circulation; keep floor coverage/voids controlled and use dunnage to fill large gaps.

Do not load beyond the T-bar floor area and do not block airflow near the air distribution point.

After loading: close doors properly and set the correct temperature / humidity / ventilation settings, then start the unit.

FAQs about 20 ft Refrigerated “Reefer” Containers

What is a 20 ft Refrigerated “Reefer” container used for?

A 20 ft reefer container is used to transport cargo that must remain within a specified temperature range throughout the journey, such as perishables and pharmaceuticals. Unlike a standard container, a reefer relies on powered refrigeration and controlled airflow. Successful shipments depend on correct set point and ventilation settings, plus proper loading that preserves airflow paths. Because fleet specs can vary, confirm the exact unit when clearances or requirements are tight.

How many pallets fit in a 20 ft Refrigerated “Reefer” container?

A 20 ft reefer typically fits fewer pallets than a dry container because internal width and airflow needs can limit how tightly you can pack. As a quick reference, many operators plan around up to 10 Euro pallets or about 9 US standard pallets in a single layer. Actual capacity depends on pallet orientation, carton overhang, whether you must leave airflow lanes, and how much bracing or dunnage is needed to keep cargo stable.

Is a 20 ft Refrigerated “Reefer” container waterproof and sealed?

A reefer is designed to protect cargo during normal transport, but “waterproof” is not absolute and depends on unit condition and door seal integrity. The bigger risk for many reefer shipments is not rain ingress but condensation and airflow issues caused by incorrect loading or settings. To reduce risk, ensure the unit is clean and dry before stuffing, keep doors closed as much as possible, and confirm correct temperature/ventilation settings after loading.

When should I choose a 20 ft Reefer vs 20 ft Standard container?

Choose a 20’ reefer when your cargo requires an active temperature-controlled environment or stable chilled/frozen conditions that a standard container cannot provide. A 20’ standard is usually better for general dry cargo because it offers more usable internal width and doesn’t require power planning. If your cargo is temperature-sensitive, reefer selection should be driven by set point requirements, cargo packaging, and your ability to load without blocking airflow.

What cargo is not suitable for a 20 ft Refrigerated “Reefer” container?

A 20’ reefer is not suitable for cargo that blocks airflow or cannot be loaded in a way that respects the load line and T-bar floor limitations. It can also be a poor fit for shipments that cannot support power requirements at origin/destination or during inland moves. Finally, cargo that is extremely odor-sensitive or incompatible with temperature/humidity conditions may require additional packaging controls or a different transport solution.

20ft Refrigerated “Reefer” Container