Reefer Containers in South Africa: The Complete Operator’s Guide

Introduction

Reefer containers—refrigerated shipping containers repurposed for stationary cold storage—have become essential infrastructure for South African cold chain operations. Whether you’re a retailer needing seasonal overflow capacity, a processor requiring temporary cold storage during harvest, or an event caterer keeping stock accessible, understanding reefer containers helps you make informed decisions about this flexible cold storage solution.

This guide covers everything South African operators need to know: specifications, costs, power requirements, supplier options, and practical considerations for deploying reefer containers effectively.

What Is a Reefer Container?

A reefer container is a standard ISO shipping container equipped with an integrated refrigeration unit. Originally designed for maritime transport of perishable goods, these containers have found extensive second-life use as stationary cold storage units.

The refrigeration unit—typically mounted at one end of the container—maintains internal temperatures anywhere from +25°C down to -35°C depending on the unit’s specifications. Modern reefers use scroll or reciprocating compressors with R-134a refrigerant, offering reliable temperature control with relatively low environmental impact compared to older R-404A systems.

Critical Understanding: Reefer containers are holding freezers, not blast freezers. They maintain product temperature but cannot effectively freeze unfrozen products. Goods must be at the required temperature before loading. Attempting to use a reefer to freeze ambient-temperature products will overwork the refrigeration unit, potentially causing failure and certainly consuming excessive energy.

Standard Reefer Container Sizes

6-Metre (20-Foot) Reefer

The 20-foot reefer offers a balance between capacity and site flexibility.

External Dimensions:

• Length: 6.06 metres
• Width: 2.44 metres
• Height: 2.59 metres

Internal Dimensions:

• Length: 5.44 metres
• Width: 2.29 metres
• Height: 2.25 metres
• Usable volume: approximately 28 cubic metres

Load Capacity: Up to 27,000 kg payload (though floor loading and site access typically limit practical loads well below this)

Best Applications:

• Smaller retail operations needing back-of-store overflow
• Construction sites and remote locations with limited space
• Event catering with moderate storage requirements
• Operations requiring multiple smaller units rather than one large facility

12-Metre (40-Foot) Reefer

The 40-foot reefer provides substantially more capacity for larger operations.

External Dimensions:

• Length: 12.19 metres
• Width: 2.44 metres
• Height: 2.59 metres (standard) or 2.90 metres (high cube)

Internal Dimensions:

• Length: 11.56 metres
• Width: 2.29 metres
• Height: 2.25 metres (standard) or 2.55 metres (high cube)
• Usable volume: approximately 60 cubic metres (standard) or 68 cubic metres (high cube)

Load Capacity: Up to 29,000 kg payload

Best Applications:

• Agricultural processing during harvest peaks
• Distribution centres needing seasonal expansion
• Large events and festivals
• Industrial operations with significant cold storage requirements

3-Metre (10-Foot) Reefer

Cut-down versions of standard containers, these smaller units serve niche applications.

Internal Volume: Approximately 12-15 cubic metres

Best Applications:

• Very limited site space
• Small batch storage
• Mobile applications requiring frequent relocation

Temperature Capabilities

Modern reefer containers offer precise temperature control across a wide range:

Frozen Storage: -25°C to -18°C

• Suitable for ice cream, frozen meat, seafood, frozen vegetables
• Requires adequate power supply and good unit condition

Chilled Storage: +2°C to +8°C

• Fresh produce, dairy, beverages, pharmaceuticals
• Most common operating range for stationary reefers

Cool Storage: +10°C to +15°C

• Certain fruits and vegetables preferring moderate temperatures
• Wine storage (though humidity control may be limited)

Temperature Control Precision: Quality units maintain set-point temperatures within ±0.3°C to ±0.5°C under stable conditions. Frequent door openings, extreme ambient temperatures, or heavily loaded units may experience greater variation.

Altitude Effects on Temperature Capability

Critical for Gauteng operators: Reefer container refrigeration units lose capacity at altitude due to lower atmospheric pressure affecting compressor performance. This directly impacts achievable minimum temperatures.

Capacity Loss by Region:

• Johannesburg (1,750m): approximately 15-18% capacity reduction
• Pretoria (1,330m): approximately 12-14% capacity reduction
• Bloemfontein (1,395m): approximately 13-15% capacity reduction
• Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth (sea level): no altitude derate

Practical Impact:

A reefer unit rated to achieve -25°C at sea level may only reach -18°C to -20°C in Johannesburg under load. This matters for:

• Ice cream and super-frozen products requiring temperatures below -20°C
• Pharmaceutical products with strict temperature specifications
• Any application where minimum temperature is critical rather than nominal

Recommendations for Highveld Operations:

• Specify temperature requirements clearly when renting—ensure the unit can achieve your target temperature at altitude, not just at sea level ratings
• Consider units with larger refrigeration capacity than sea-level equivalents
• Allow longer pull-down times when cooling empty containers
• Monitor actual achieved temperatures rather than relying on set-point alone
• During extreme summer heat (ambient 35°C+), altitude-derated units may struggle to maintain deep-frozen temperatures

Supplier Discussion Point: When sourcing reefers for Gauteng operations, ask suppliers specifically about altitude performance. Reputable suppliers understand this issue and can recommend appropriately-sized units. If a supplier dismisses altitude concerns, consider that a red flag about their technical knowledge.

Dehumidification: Some models offer humidity control between 60% and 90% relative humidity—important for specific produce or pharmaceutical applications requiring precise moisture management.

Power Requirements and Consumption

Electrical Specifications

Standard reefer containers require:

Three-Phase Power: 380-460V, 50-60Hz

• Most common configuration for industrial/commercial reefers
• Requires 32-amp dedicated circuit with C32 automatic fuse
• Connection via 5-pin or 4-pin industrial plug

Single-Phase Options: 220V

• Available for some smaller units or converted containers
• Lower capacity, suitable for chilled (not frozen) applications
• More accessible power source for retail and residential-adjacent sites

Power Consumption

Actual power consumption varies significantly based on operating conditions:

Typical Consumption Ranges:

• Chilled operation (+4°C): 3-5 kWh per hour
• Frozen operation (-18°C): 5-8 kWh per hour
• Extreme frozen (-25°C): 7-10 kWh per hour

Factors Affecting Consumption:

• Ambient temperature (higher outside temperatures increase load)
• Frequency of door openings
• Product load and initial temperature
• Unit age and condition
• Insulation integrity
• Defrost cycle frequency

Monthly Cost Estimate (Eskom commercial rates ~R2.50/kWh):

• Chilled unit running continuously: R5,400 – R9,000/month
• Frozen unit running continuously: R9,000 – R14,400/month

These estimates assume 24-hour operation. Actual costs vary with tariff structures, time-of-use pricing, and operational patterns.

Load Shedding Considerations

Power interruptions present significant challenges for reefer operations in South Africa:

Temperature Rise During Outages:

• Well-loaded frozen reefer: approximately 1-2°C rise per hour (doors closed)
• Partially loaded or empty unit: faster temperature rise
• Chilled products more vulnerable than frozen (smaller temperature buffer)

Mitigation Strategies:

• Generator backup (diesel generators sized for reefer starting current—typically 3× running current)
• Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for brief outages
• Load shedding schedule management (pre-cooling before scheduled outages)
• Multiple smaller units rather than single large unit (rotate through outages)

Rental Costs in South Africa

Pricing Disclaimer: All prices quoted in this guide are indicative estimates based on publicly available information and market research as of early 2026. Actual prices vary by supplier, location, contract duration, unit condition, and market conditions. Obtain current quotes directly from suppliers for accurate pricing. ColdChainSA does not guarantee pricing accuracy and accepts no liability for decisions based on these estimates.

Reefer container rental offers flexibility without capital outlay. Current market rates (2025):

Daily Rental Rates:

• 3m container: R130 – R175 per day
• 6m container: R150 – R175 per day
• 12m container: R190 – R220 per day

Peak Season Premium: October through January—harvest season and holiday events—typically sees 15-25% rate increases due to high demand.

What’s Typically Included:

• Container in working condition
• Technical support hotline
• Basic operational guidance

What’s Typically Extra:

• Delivery and collection transport (R2,000 – R8,000+ depending on distance)
• Electrical connection and installation
• Generator rental if required
• Extended support or on-site technician visits

Rental vs Purchase Consideration: At R6,000/month rental (12m container), break-even against purchase typically occurs at 18-24 months of continuous use. However, rental avoids maintenance responsibility, obsolescence risk, and capital commitment—making it preferable for seasonal or uncertain requirements.

Buying Reefer Containers

For operations with ongoing cold storage needs, purchasing may be economical.

Purchase Price Ranges (2025):

• Used 6m reefer (5-10 years old, good condition): R80,000 – R150,000
• Used 12m reefer (5-10 years old, good condition): R120,000 – R250,000
• Refurbished units with new refrigeration: R200,000 – R400,000
• New units: R350,000 – R600,000+

What to Check Before Purchase:

• PTI (Pre-Trip Inspection) certificate confirming refrigeration unit functionality
• Hours on compressor (like vehicle mileage—indicates wear)
• Refrigerant type (R-134a preferred over older R-404A)
• Insulation condition (check for damage, moisture ingress, rust)
• Door seals and gaskets
• Electrical components and control systems
• Structural integrity (floor, walls, ceiling)

Ongoing Ownership Costs:

• Annual servicing: R5,000 – R15,000
• Refrigerant top-ups: R2,000 – R5,000 as needed
• Compressor replacement (every 8-15 years): R30,000 – R80,000
• Control board and component repairs: variable

Site Preparation and Installation

Ground Requirements

Reefer containers require stable, level placement:

Surface Options (Best to Acceptable):

• Concrete slab (ideal—stable, easy to clean, good drainage)
• Compacted gravel with drainage
• Paving blocks on prepared base
• Hardstand or existing paved area

Avoid:

• Soft ground (containers sink, doors misalign)
• Sloped surfaces (refrigeration units may malfunction, drainage issues)
• Areas prone to flooding

Levelling: Container must be level within reasonable tolerance. Unlevel placement causes door alignment issues and may affect refrigeration unit performance.

Clearance Requirements

Refrigeration Unit End:

• Minimum 1 metre clearance from walls or obstructions
• Recommended 2-3 metres for technician access and airflow
• Ensure adequate ventilation for heat rejection

Door End:

• Sufficient space for full door swing
• Access for forklifts or pallet jacks if applicable
• Consider traffic flow and loading operations

Overhead:

• Check for power lines, structures, or tree branches
• High-cube containers need additional clearance

Electrical Installation

Professional electrical installation is essential:

Requirements:

• Dedicated circuit from distribution board
• Appropriate cable sizing for current draw and distance
• Industrial socket matching container plug configuration
• Earth leakage protection
• Isolation switch accessible near container

Cost Estimate: R3,000 – R10,000 depending on distance from power source and existing infrastructure.

Operational Best Practices

Loading and Product Placement

Airflow Management: Reefer containers use bottom-air delivery through T-bar flooring. Cold air flows from the refrigeration unit along the floor, rises through/around products, and returns to the unit at ceiling level.

Correct Loading:

• Leave clearance below products for air circulation
• Don’t block return air path at ceiling level
• Avoid stacking products directly against walls
• Use pallets or dunnage to keep products off floor

Incorrect Loading:

• Floor-to-ceiling solid stacking blocks airflow
• Products pushed against refrigeration unit
• Cardboard or plastic sheeting blocking floor channels

Door Management

Every door opening introduces warm, humid air:

Minimise Openings:

• Plan retrieval to minimise entry/exit frequency
• Remove multiple items per entry rather than single items
• Install strip curtains to reduce air exchange during access

Door Seal Inspection:

• Check gaskets regularly for damage or wear
• Ensure doors close fully and latch securely
• Replace worn seals promptly (R1,500 – R4,000)

Defrost Cycles

Ice builds on evaporator coils, reducing efficiency. Units defrost automatically, but operators should understand the process:

Normal Defrost:

• Occurs every 4-8 hours for frozen applications
• Takes 20-45 minutes
• Internal temperature may rise slightly during defrost
• This is normal—don’t interrupt the cycle

Excessive Ice Build-up Indicates:

• Door seal problems
• Too-frequent door openings
• High-humidity product loading
• Refrigeration system issues requiring service

Temperature Monitoring

• Built-in Displays: Most reefers have external digital displays showing current internal temperature. Check regularly, especially during initial cooling and after loading.
• Supplementary Monitoring: For compliance or high-value products, consider independent data loggers recording temperature continuously. This provides documentation for audits and early warning of problems.

Independent Temperature Monitoring Solutions

While reefer containers include built-in temperature displays, these have limitations: they show current temperature only, provide no historical record, and offer no remote alerts if something goes wrong overnight or over a weekend.

When Independent Monitoring Makes Sense:

• Pharmaceutical storage requiring GDP-compliant documentation
• High-value inventory where losses would be significant
• Multi-site operations needing centralised visibility
• Compliance requirements demanding continuous recorded data
• Remote locations where daily physical checks aren’t practical

Monitoring Options:

USB Data Loggers (R500-R2,000 per unit) Standalone devices placed inside the container that record temperature at set intervals. Download data periodically via USB. Suitable for compliance documentation but no real-time alerts.

Suppliers in SA: LogTag Recorders, DeltaTrak South Africa, Gemini Data Loggers, Testo

Wireless/Bluetooth Monitors (R1,000-R4,000 per unit) Sensors that transmit to a nearby smartphone or gateway. Good for facilities where someone is regularly on-site to receive alerts.

Suppliers in SA: Sense It, Beyond Wireless, Temperature Monitor Solutions Africa

Cellular/Cloud-Based Systems (R2,000-R8,000 hardware + R200-R600/month) Real-time monitoring with SMS/email alerts when temperatures deviate from set range. Data stored in cloud for compliance reporting. Monitor multiple sites from single dashboard.

Suppliers in SA: Cold Watch, Coldcubed, Augos, ORBCOMM, Ctrack (integrated with fleet tracking)

What to Look For:

• Alert response time (how quickly does the system notify you of excursions?)
• Data storage duration (how long are records kept for audits?)
• Calibration requirements (SANAS-accredited calibration for pharmaceutical applications)
• Battery life and backup (does the monitor keep working during load shedding?)
• Report generation (can you produce compliance documentation easily?)

Practical Tip: Even basic USB loggers costing R500-R1,000 provide valuable protection. Discovering a refrigeration failure on Monday morning with 72 hours of logged data helps identify when the problem started—critical for determining whether product is salvageable or must be destroyed.

Browse temperature monitoring providers in the ColdChainSA directory: Temperature Monitoring & Technology

Common Applications in South Africa

Retail Overflow Storage

Supermarkets and grocery stores use reefers for:

• Peak season stock (December holidays, Easter)
• Promotional bulk purchases
• Distribution centre overflow
• Store renovation temporary storage

Placement: Typically back-of-store or loading dock area with convenient access for stock rotation.

Agricultural Processing

Harvest creates temporary cold storage spikes:

• Citrus packing houses during picking season
• Deciduous fruit cold storage before processing
• Vegetable cooling and consolidation
• Wine grape processing facilities

Reefers offer scalable capacity matching unpredictable harvest volumes without permanent infrastructure investment.

Events and Catering

Large-scale events require mobile cold storage:

• Music festivals and outdoor events
• Sports tournaments
• Corporate functions
• Wedding venues and estates

Event applications often require multiple units, generator backup, and rapid deployment/removal capability.

Construction and Mining

Remote sites need cold storage for:

• Catering operations
• Medical supplies
• Core samples requiring temperature control

These applications often involve challenging logistics: difficult access, unreliable power, extreme ambient temperatures.

Pharmaceutical and Healthcare

Vaccine storage, clinical trial materials, and temperature-sensitive medicines require:

• Validated temperature control
• Continuous monitoring and documentation
• Backup power systems
• Compliance with SAHPRA GDP requirements

Pharmaceutical applications typically use newer, well-maintained units with comprehensive monitoring systems.

South African Reefer Container Suppliers

Several established suppliers serve the South African market:

National Suppliers

Almar Container Group

• Offices: Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg
• Services: Rental, sales, technical support
• Fleet: Carrier-branded refrigeration units
• Contact: +27 31 561 6767

Big Box Containers

• Services: Rental and sales
• Coverage: National through partner network
• Specialisation: Container conversions and modifications

Container World

• Services: Lease, Carrier Transicold authorised service centre
• Technical support: 24/7/365 national coverage
• Fleet: Young units with latest technology

ArcticStore (TITAN SA)

• Location: Pretoria
• Services: Rental and sales
• Contact: +27 12 942 0712

Regional Specialists

Check ColdChainSA directory for regional suppliers offering localised service and competitive rates in specific areas.

Selection Criteria

When choosing a supplier, consider:

• Geographic coverage and response time for technical issues
• Fleet age and condition
• Included services vs additional costs
• Flexibility on rental terms
• References from similar applications
• Availability during peak season (book early for October-January)

Reefer Containers vs Other Cold Storage Options

Compared to Built Cold Rooms

Reefer Advantages:

• No construction required
• Relocatable if business moves
• Scalable (add/remove units as needed)
• Lower upfront investment
• Faster deployment

Cold Room Advantages:

• Lower long-term operating cost
• Customisable dimensions
• Higher energy efficiency (typically)
• Better suited for high-traffic operations
• Permanent, purpose-designed infrastructure

Decision Factor: If cold storage needs are uncertain, temporary, or may relocate, reefers make sense. If needs are permanent and substantial, built cold rooms offer better long-term economics.

Compared to Eutectic (Ice Plate) Systems

Reefer Advantages:

• No charging time required
• Maintains temperature indefinitely (with power)
• Wider temperature range
• Higher capacity

Eutectic Advantages:

• Silent operation
• Lower running costs for short-duration cooling
• No external power required after charging
• Simpler mechanical systems

Decision Factor: Eutectic suits transport and short-duration storage; reefers suit extended stationary storage.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Unit Not Cooling

Check First:

• Power supply connected and switched on
• Circuit breaker not tripped
• Display showing operation (not fault code)
• Set-point temperature correctly programmed

If Power Is Good:

• Check for fault codes on display (consult manual or supplier)
• Listen for compressor operation
• Feel condenser for heat rejection (should be warm/hot during operation)
• Contact technical support with fault code information

Excessive Ice Build-up

Likely Causes:

• Door seals damaged or not closing properly
• Defrost cycle not activating (control issue)
• Defrost heater failed
• Very humid environment or product

Action:

• Inspect door seals
• Verify defrost is occurring (unit should warm slightly every few hours)
• Contact technician if defrost system appears faulty

Temperature Not Reaching Set-Point

Possible Causes:

• Altitude effects reducing refrigeration capacity (see Altitude Effects section above)
• Ambient temperature exceeding unit capacity
• Insufficient airflow (poor loading pattern)
• Low refrigerant charge
• Dirty condenser coils
• Unit undersized for application

Action:

• For Gauteng operations, verify unit is rated for altitude performance
• Verify loading pattern allows airflow
• Check condenser coils are clean and unobstructed
• Compare ambient temperature against unit specifications
• Contact technician for refrigerant and mechanical checks

High Power Consumption

Check:

• Condenser coils clean and airflow unrestricted
• Door seals intact
• Defrost occurring normally (not running constantly)
• Product loaded at correct temperature (not trying to freeze warm product)
• Ambient conditions within specification

Regulatory Considerations

Food Safety (R638)

Reefer containers used for food storage must maintain temperatures specified in R638 regulations:

• Chilled perishables: ≤5°C
• Frozen products: ≤-18°C

Temperature monitoring records demonstrate compliance during inspections.

Pharmaceutical Storage (SAHPRA GDP)

Pharmaceutical applications require:

• Validated temperature control (documented evidence unit maintains specification)
• Continuous temperature monitoring with calibrated sensors
• Alarm systems for temperature excursions
• Documented maintenance and calibration records
• Backup power ensuring continuous operation

Municipal Regulations

Some municipalities require permits for container placement, especially in:

• Residential areas
• Heritage or aesthetic-controlled zones
• Premises with site development plans

Check local requirements before installation.

Conclusion

Reefer containers offer South African cold chain operators flexible, scalable cold storage without major capital investment or lengthy construction timelines. Understanding specifications, costs, and operational requirements helps you deploy these units effectively—whether for seasonal peaks, event support, or bridging capacity while permanent facilities develop.

For most applications, rental makes sense initially. This allows you to confirm requirements, test supplier responsiveness, and avoid commitment before needs are certain. Operations with proven, ongoing requirements may find purchase economical over multi-year horizons.

Whatever your approach, success depends on proper site preparation, correct electrical installation, and understanding that reefers maintain temperature rather than create it. Load products at the correct temperature, manage door openings, and maintain the refrigeration unit—and reefer containers will serve your cold chain reliably.

Sources & References

Industry Technical Sources

• Almar Container Group – Reefer Containers – South Africa’s largest reefer supplier; specifications, rental processes, and operational guidance
• Almar Container Group – Refrigerated Containers for Sale – Purchase pricing, specifications, and technical details for SA market
• Almar Container Group – Reefer Containers: Everything You Need to Know – Comprehensive reefer guide including seasonal demand patterns
• Container World – Refrigerated Containers – Carrier Transicold authorised service centre; technical support and fleet information
• Big Box Containers – Refrigerated Container Rental – Rental options and container specifications
• ArcticStore South Africa – Refrigerated container solutions for SA market
• DSV – Reefer Container Dimensions and Specifications – International shipping container specifications reference

Technical Specifications and Research

• ARCON Container – Reefer Container Dimensions and Size Guide – Detailed dimensional specifications for 20ft and 40ft reefers
• Conexwest – 20ft Reefer Container Dimensions & Specifications – Technical specifications including temperature ranges and power requirements
• Conexwest – 40ft Reefer Container Dimensions & Specifications – 40ft and high cube specifications
• MT Container FAQ – Power Requirements – Electrical specifications and operational guidance
• Global Container Service – 20ft Reefer Containers – Power consumption data (average 4.5 kWh)
• Climatight Containers – Reefer Container Power Consumption – Energy consumption analysis (3-7 kWh typical range)
• ScienceDirect – Energy Use of Integral Refrigerated Containers in Maritime Transportation – Academic research on reefer power consumption (4.42-8.63 kW range depending on temperature)

Regulatory Sources

• South African Department of Health – R638 Regulations Relating to the Transport of Perishable Foodstuffs (Government Gazette) – Temperature requirements for food storage
• SAHPRA Guide to Good Distribution Practice – Pharmaceutical cold chain requirements for GDP compliance

Temperature Monitoring Suppliers (South Africa)

• LogTag Recorders South Africa – USB temperature data loggers
• DeltaTrak South Africa – Temperature monitoring devices
• Testo South Africa – Measurement instruments and data loggers
• Cold Watch – Cloud-based temperature monitoring platform
• Coldcubed – Cold chain monitoring solutions
• Augos – Temperature monitoring technology
• Ctrack – Fleet tracking with temperature monitoring integration

Related Resources on ColdChainSA

Directory Categories:

• Cold Storage Facilities
• Equipment Suppliers – Refrigeration
• Container Rental and Sales

Glossary Terms:

• Transport Refrigeration Unit (TRU)
• Coefficient of Performance (COP)
• Load Shedding Resilience
• R-134a Refrigerant

Guides:

• Thermal Load Calculator (calculate refrigeration requirements)
• Cold Storage Facility Guide

About ColdChainSA

ColdChainSA.com is South Africa’s dedicated cold chain logistics directory and resource hub. With eight years of operational experience in temperature-controlled transport across Gauteng and Western Cape, we provide practical guidance grounded in real-world cold chain operations.