Maritime transport of frozen and refrigerated goods: Reefer container types and sizes

Maritime transport of refrigerated products presents a logistical challenge that requires refrigerated containers to ensure the cold chain. In this regard, the use of Reefer containers is essential to maintain the quality of temperature-sensitive goods throughout the entire logistics journey.

At Logista, this is possible thanks to the acquisition of Transportes El Mosca, a company specialized in maritime and multimodal transport, enabling us to offer solutions that combine technical capacity, traceability, and regulatory compliance, capable of meeting the needs of maritime transport for refrigerated and frozen food products, pharmaceuticals, and other cargo.

What are Reefer or Refrigerated Containers?

Reefer containers are standardized containers used in maritime transport to preserve goods affected by temperature variations. The built-in refrigeration system maintains the required conditions throughout the container’s journey and adapts to the needs of fresh or frozen products.
 

Unlike standard containers, they not only allow for temperature-controlled transport but also enable humidity and atmosphere control in certain types, which is relevant for maintaining cargo quality on long-distance routes.

General Features of Reefer Containers

Reefer containers have several unique features that make them indispensable in maritime logistics for perishable goods. Key features include:

●       Own Refrigeration System: The main feature of a Reefer is its refrigeration system, which maintains the appropriate temperature for each type of cargo, whether fresh or frozen.

●       Thermal Insulation: Reefer containers have a thermal insulation system that reduces heat transfer from the outside to the inside, ensuring suitable temperatures throughout the journey.

●       Continuous Monitoring: Many modern Reefers use control systems to monitor internal conditions such as temperature and humidity, providing data for logistics management and ensuring cargo quality..

●       Humidity and Atmospheric Composition Regulation: Some specific Reefer models also allow regulation of humidity and the atmospheric composition inside the container, which is crucial for goods requiring specific conditions to extend freshness and prevent deterioration.

●       Standard Dimensions: These containers have standard dimensions, facilitating integration into ships, trains, and trucks, optimizing space and transport efficiency.

Types of Reefer Containers

There are different models of Reefer containers, each designed for specific transport needs. The most common types are:

●       Standard Reefer Container: The most widely used type, suitable for a broad range of perishable goods. Maintains temperatures between -25ºC and +25ºC, with some models ranging from -30ºC to +30ºC, making them ideal for products like fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, etc.

●       Super Freezer Reefer Container: Used for goods requiring very low temperatures, reaching up to -60ºC. Commonly used for pharmaceuticals, frozen fish, and other products needing strict temperature control.

●       Controlled Atmosphere Reefer Container (CA): Allows regulation of oxygen, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and ethylene levels inside. Widely used for transporting fruits and vegetables, as the controlled atmosphere extends product shelf life by slowing down ripening.

●       Ventilated Reefer Container: Enables air circulation with a high percentage of ventilation inside. Especially useful for products needing specific ventilation, such as garlic, onions, coffee, or certain vegetables. Keeps products fresh and prevents moisture accumulation that could cause deterioration.

●       High Cube Reefer Container: Taller versions of standard containers, offering greater cargo capacity. The additional height allows better use of container dimensions, providing more volume for goods requiring extra space.