20-Foot Reefer
Integral refrigeration unit in a 20-foot envelope for temperature-sensitive cargo.
Learn moreTemperature-Controlled & Refrigerated Containers
40-Foot High Cube Reefer
The standard high cube refrigerated unit for full-load temperature-controlled freight.
40 ft
Container overview
The 40-foot high cube reefer is the default refrigerated unit on most trade lanes. Insulated panels and an integral refrigeration machine are combined with high cube exterior height, which recovers much of the interior volume lost to insulation.
Airflow is delivered through a T-bar floor and returns to the machine at the front wall, so cargo must be stowed to keep the air path clear and stay below the marked load line. Loading above that line restricts circulation and produces uneven temperatures.
Confirm power availability at every point in the chain, along with set-point, ventilation and humidity requirements for the specific cargo.
Also called40' HC RF · 40-foot high cube refrigerated container · 40 reefer
Key features
- Integral refrigeration unit with programmable set-point control
- High cube exterior height to recover interior volume
- T-bar floor and marked load line for correct airflow
- Insulated walls, roof and doors
- Requires power at sea, at the terminal and on the road
- Higher tare weight than a comparable dry van
Technical specifications
Inside dimensions
| Length | 37' 11¾" |
|---|---|
| Width | 7' 5¾" |
| Height | 8' 3⅜" |
| Floor area | 284 sq ft |
| Cubic capacity | 2,356 cu ft |
Outside dimensions
| Length | 40' |
|---|---|
| Width | 8' |
| Height | 9' 6" |
Door opening
| Width | 7' 5⅝" |
|---|---|
| Height | 8' 3¾" |
| Other opening / feature | Refrigeration machinery end |
Weights
| Tare weight | 9,480 lb |
|---|---|
| Maximum payload | 62,000 lb |
| Maximum gross weight | 72,750 lb |
Certification and identification
| ISO size/type code | 45R1 / 45R9 |
|---|---|
| ISO size group | 45 (40 ft × 9 ft 6 in) |
| CSC information | Cargo-worthy units carry a valid CSC safety approval plate |
Container specifications may vary by manufacturer, production year and individual unit. Confirm the specifications of the assigned container before booking, loading or modifying the equipment.
Exact interior and tare vary by refrigeration machinery.
Specifications last reviewed 2026-08-24. · Representative carrier specification. Reference specification
Condition and compliance
- New / one-trip units, subject to origin availability
- Used cargo-worthy units with valid CSC plating
- Specialty-certified equipment where the project requires it
Equipment moving on an international booking has to satisfy the applicable carrier, CSC, inspection, prefix, marking and documentation requirements before it is loaded. Wind and watertight condition describes weather protection only, and is a separate standard from cargo-worthy condition.
Common applications
- Temperature-controlled international freight
- Perishable and pharmaceutical cargo
- Chemical and process materials
- Conditioned project storage
Related containers
Insulated
Insulated panels without an operating refrigeration unit, for passive temperature stability.
Learn more
40-Foot High Cube
The most widely booked ocean unit, adding a foot of height to the 40-foot footprint.
Learn moreNeed this container for your project?
Tell us what you are shipping, where the container is needed and when the project begins. Pro Box will help identify the appropriate equipment, condition and documentation requirements.