20-Foot Reefer
Integral refrigeration unit in a 20-foot envelope for temperature-sensitive cargo.
Learn moreTemperature-Controlled & Refrigerated Containers
Insulated
Insulated panels without an operating refrigeration unit, for passive temperature stability.
20 ft · 40 ft
Container overview
An insulated container uses the same insulated wall, roof, door and floor construction as a reefer, without an operating refrigeration machine. Interior temperature stays more stable than in a plain steel box, which reduces condensation and slows heat gain.
Units are used for cargo that has to be shielded from ambient swings rather than actively cooled, for conditioned on-site storage, and as a base for conversion work. Some units are non-operating reefers with the machinery removed or disabled, so the exact configuration should be confirmed per unit.
Insulation reduces temperature swing. It does not hold a set-point, so cargo requiring a controlled temperature needs a reefer.
Also callednon-operating reefer · NOR container · passive insulated container
Key features
- Insulated walls, roof, doors and floor
- No operating refrigeration machine
- Reduced condensation compared with a plain steel container
- Available in 20-foot and 40-foot configurations
- Common base unit for conditioned storage and conversion work
Technical specifications
Inside dimensions
| Length | Varies by former reefer model |
|---|---|
| Width | Varies |
| Height | Varies |
| Floor area | 134 sq ft (20 ft) / 285 sq ft (40 ft) |
| Cubic capacity | 991 cu ft (20 ft) / 2,370 cu ft (40 ft) |
Outside dimensions
| Length | 20' |
|---|---|
| Width | 8' |
| Height | 8' 6" |
Door opening
| Width | Varies |
|---|---|
| Height | Varies |
| Other opening / feature | Insulated walls |
Weights
| Tare weight | 6,500 lb (20 ft) / 10,400 lb (40 ft) |
|---|---|
| Maximum payload | 58,700 lb (20 ft) / 61,200 lb (40 ft) |
| Maximum gross weight | 65,200 lb (20 ft) / 71,600 lb (40 ft) |
Certification and identification
| ISO size/type code | Varies |
|---|---|
| ISO size group | 22 or 45 depending on the unit |
| 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.
Use the individual unit specification; insulation thickness varies.
Specifications last reviewed 2026-08-24. · Unit-specific. 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
- Conditioned commercial storage
- Industrial process materials
- Construction and site facilities
- Government and military projects
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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.