--- title: "40ft Refrigerated Container" description: "40ft Refrigerated Container Dimensions Suitable for international shipping Temperature controlled Secure locking system Heavy duty flooring Wind and" url: "https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/40ft-refrigerated-container" date: "2026-04-21T09:44:38+00:00" language: "en-GB" --- ![Refrigerated Container](https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/images/containerimages/Special-Birmingham-Containers15.jpg) # 40ft Refrigerated Container Dimensions **Shipping Containers of Birmingham** supplies 40ft refrigerated containers (reefers) for clients requiring large-scale temperature-controlled solutions. These units are the standard choice for bulk international transport and extensive on-site cold storage. Whether you need to [buy a shipping container](https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/buy) for permanent warehouse expansion or require a temporary hire for peak-season stock, the 40ft reefer offers maximum volume. We ensure every unit meets strict performance standards before delivery. ## Dimensions and Capacity While the external dimensions match a standard [40ft shipping container](https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/40ft-shipping-container), the internal capacity is slightly reduced. This is due to the thick insulation required to maintain temperature and the refrigeration machinery housing. You must factor this into your loading plan. | Description | Imperial | Metric | |---|---|---| | Maximum payload | 63,640 lb | 28,870 kg | | External Dimensions | 40' x 8' x 8'6" | 12.192 x 2.438 x 2.591 m | | Internal Volume | 2,366 cubic feet | 67 m3 | | Door opening width | 7' 8 1/8" | 2.340 m | | Door opening height | 7' 5 1/2" | 2.274 m | | Internal length | 39' 5 11/16" | 12.032 m | | Internal width | 7' 8 1/2" | 2.350 m | | Internal height (to load line) | 7' 10 7/32" | 2.393 m | | Gross Weight | 71,650 lb | 32,500 kg | | Tare Weight | 8,010 lb | 3,630 kg | *Note: Exact internal dimensions can vary by manufacturer. If your cargo requires precise clearances, please contact **Shipping Containers of Birmingham** for measurements of our current stock.* ## Key Features Our 40ft refrigerated containers are built for durability and precision. They protect sensitive cargo such as food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals. - **Temperature Control:** Maintains set temperatures between -25°C and +25°C, suitable for frozen or chilled goods. - **Food Grade Interiors:** Stainless steel or high-grade panel lining ensures easy cleaning and compliance with hygiene standards. - **T-Bar Flooring:** Aluminium T-bar floors ensure cold air circulates under the cargo, preventing hot spots. - **Security:** Robust steel doors and locking bars keep high-value inventory safe. ## Power Supply Requirements Refrigerated containers require an active power source to operate. They do not run on standard domestic electricity. The unit typically requires a **3-phase, 380/440V supply** with a 32 A 5-pin plug. You must verify your site has this infrastructure. For static storage where 3-phase power is not available, you may need to hire a dedicated generator. ## Delivery Considerations Delivering a 40ft container requires significant space. We use an articulated HIAB vehicle with a large turning circle, similar to a standard HGV. The driver needs a straight run to back into the location or pull alongside. You must ensure there are no overhead cables or low branches. If space is tight, a [20ft refrigerated container](https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/20ft-refrigerated-container) might be a better option. We can assess your site access via photos if you are unsure. ## Frequently Asked Questions #### How much power does a 40ft reefer use? Power consumption varies with the set temperature, the ambient outdoor temperature, and the frequency of door openings. Generally, a 40ft unit runs on a 3-phase 32A supply. We recommend consulting a qualified electrician to prepare your site. #### Can I use a reefer for dry storage? Yes, non-operating reefers (NORs) are often used for dry storage. The insulation protects goods from condensation and extreme temperature fluctuations better than a standard steel container. However, the internal width is slightly narrower. #### Is the floor flat? No. Refrigerated containers use a T-bar floor system. This is a series of raised aluminium rails. It is designed for airflow but can be difficult to use with small-wheeled pallet trucks. You may need to lay flat boarding if you plan to move small trolleys inside. #### Do you offer breakdown support? For hire customers, we provide maintenance support for the machinery. If you buy a unit, we conduct a Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) before it leaves our depot, ensuring it is fully operational upon delivery. [Container Quote](https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/get-container-prices) **Tel: [0330 0130 636](tel:03300130636)** ## Schema ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "40ft Refrigerated Container", "item": "https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/40ft-refrigerated-container" } ] } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/40ft-refrigerated-container" }, "headline": "40ft Refrigerated Container", "description": "40ft Refrigerated Container Dimensions Suitable for international shipping Temperature controlled Secure locking system Heavy duty flooring Wind and", "image": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/images/containerimages/Special-Birmingham-Containers15.jpg" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "Shipping Containers of Birmingham", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/images/masterlogo.png" } }, "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Shipping Container of Birmingham", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/40ft-refrigerated-container" }, "datePublished": "2022-04-04T10:06:52+00:00", "dateCreated": "2022-04-04T10:06:52+00:00", "dateModified": "2026-04-15T15:08:05+00:00" } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much power does a 40ft reefer use?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Power consumption varies with the set temperature, the ambient outdoor temperature, and the frequency of door openings. Generally, a 40ft unit runs on a 3-phase 32A supply. We recommend consulting a qualified electrician to prepare your site." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Can I use a reefer for dry storage?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, non-operating reefers (NORs) are often used for dry storage. The insulation protects goods from condensation and extreme temperature fluctuations better than a standard steel container. However, the internal width is slightly narrower." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is the floor flat?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "No. Refrigerated containers use a T-bar floor system. This is a series of raised aluminium rails. It is designed for airflow but can be difficult to use with small-wheeled pallet trucks. You may need to lay flat boarding if you plan to move small trolleys inside." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Do you offer breakdown support?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "For hire customers, we provide maintenance support for the machinery. If you buy a unit, we conduct a Pre-Trip Inspection (PTI) before it leaves our depot, ensuring it is fully operational upon delivery." } } ] } ``` ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Product", "productID": "COYU", "name": "40ft Refrigerated Container", "image": "https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/", "description": "40ft Refrigerated Container Dimensions Suitable for international shipping Temperature controlled Secure locking system Heavy duty flooring Wind and", "mpn": "COYU", "gtin": "COYU", "google_product_category": "2636", "brand": { "@type": "Brand", "name": "Shipping Container of Birmingham" }, "offers": { "@type": "AggregateOffer", "offerCount": 1, "lowPrice": "0.00", "highPrice": "0.00", "priceCurrency": "GBP", "url": "https://shippingcontainersofbirmingham.co.uk/40ft-refrigerated-container", "itemCondition": "http://schema.org/UsedCondition", "availability": "http://schema.org/InStock" }, "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "4.8", "reviewCount": "117", "worstRating": 0, "bestRating": 5 } } ```