01 May Everything You Need to Know About Reefer Containers
When it comes to the transportation of perishables that require strict temperature control, reefer containers are the most durable and affordable options. Equipped with refrigeration units that can be connected to a power supply, they ensure that your goods arrive at their pre-determined port or warehouse fresh and ready for delivery. The biggest challenge facing the open seas, road or rail is the quality of reefer containers, as a faulty unit may go unnoticed during its arduous journey.
Basic Construction of Reefer Containers
Utilising T-shaped flooring together with a refrigeration unit on standard shipping containers allows for the distribution of a steady stream of circulated air to reach every corner of the container creating a perfectly balanced environment for perishable goods. Pallets aren’t mandatory, however, they do make it more simplistic to organise, load and off-load items. It is important to note that reefer containers cannot freeze products that have unfrozen as they are designed to maintain the temperature of the item. Therefore, you need to ensure that the cargo is at the desired temperature before being packed.
The Four Aspects Needed for Keeping Goods Fresh
Reefer containers may be constructed from the bare bones of shipping containers. However, what makes them the hardy transportable refrigeration units they are is the ability to maintain the temperature, atmosphere and humidity whilst in transit. Four crucial aspects need to be considered when keeping cargo fresh in these containers:
- Ideal temperature control – To maintain a constant chilled or frozen temperature, standard reefer containers are built to withstand between 250C and -250
- Ample airflow – To maintain a consistent temperature and prevent any unnecessary spoiling of the cargo, air must flow through it at all times. The perishables must be stacked in a block formation and as compact as possible when packing them, especially between the walls of the container and the cargo.
- Keeping moisture at bay – Even though perishable goods are in a sealed container, there remains a chance of moisture entering. To remove excess moisture, the refrigeration units have dehumidifying functions that can lower the moisture in the air.
- Removing excess water – As cargo travels great distances, there is a possibility of insects or water getting into the containers. Strategically placed drains release any excess water that may accumulate, which in turn assists with keeping insects at bay.
From the interior steel panelling to the outer robust exterior, the modular construction of reefer containers makes them the ideal choice for multiple industries that require the affordable transportation of perishable items, including pharmaceuticals.
Exceptional Quality Containers
At Absolute Containers, we take every precaution to ensure that our new and used shipping containers are of the utmost quality, whether they are being used to transport goods or as container conversions for homes or businesses. Contact us and we will gladly assist you with your perfect modular solution.
