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Trusted Partner Since 2017 
Fast Delivery: 2-5 Business Days 
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40ft Standard Reefer (40' RF)
External (L x W x H)
40’/8’/8’6
12.19 m/2.44 m/2.59 m
40ft Standard Reefer (40' RF)
Flexible Payment Plans 
Fast Delivery: 2-5 Business Days 
Trusted Partner Since 2017 
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Overview
Specs
Delivery
Payments & Financing
Warranty
FAQ
Overview
What is a 40-foot standard reefer container?
A 40ft reefer shipping container is a temperature-controlled container designed to transport and store perishable goods or sensitive cargo. It comes with an integrated refrigeration system that maintains a consistent internal climate, regardless of external factors and weather conditions.
Reefer containers are widely used for food and vegetable storage, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and temperature-sensitive equipment. The 40ft version provides more internal height, allowing better airflow and more efficient loading space. If you’re looking for a smaller version, check out 20ft reefer containers.
Built with a durable steel exterior and insulated interior, reefer containers ensure reliable performance across long-distance transport and on-site cold storage applications.
Request a quote from Pelican Containers for the best pricing on a 40ft reefer container for sale, with fast nationwide delivery.
Specs
Technical Information
Dimensions
Internal (L x W x H)
37'9"/7’6/7’5
11.56 m/2.28 m/2.27 m
Floor area
285 sq ft
26.5 m²
Volume
2,400 cu ft
68 m³
Max Gross
67,200 lbs
34,000 kg
Payload
58,600 lbs
26,600 kg
Tare Weight
9,500 lbs
4,800 kg
Temperature Range
-22°F to +86°F
-30°C to +30°C
Deep Freeze
Down to -40°F
Down to -40°C
Heat Leakagekcal/deg.c.hr
22–25 kcal/°C/hr
92–105 kJ/°C/hr
Type
Standard Reefer
Designed, Built and Certified
ISO Code 22R1, Controlled Atmosphere (CA) 22R3
Usability and Features
Ample Space
Capacity: ~2,100–2,400 cu ft (59–68 m³) – less than high-cube (RH), Floor Area: 285 sq ft (26.5 m²) – same as high-cube, Best For: Dense, heavy cargo (e.g., frozen meat, dairy) where volume is less critical than weight.
Temperature Control
Digital controllers (e.g., Carrier X4 or Thermo King T-800) track temp/humidity in real time.
Optimal Temperature
Range: -30°C to +30°C (-22°F to +86°F), extendable to -40°C (-40°F) for deep freeze. Precision: ±0.3°C (±0.5°F).
Monitoring and Control
Real-Time Tracking: IoT-enabled reefers transmit data to shippers via GSM/satellite. Notify crew if temps deviate (e.g., door opened, power loss). Adjust settings via web/mobile apps (e.g., Maersk Remote Container Management)
Power Supply
Voltage: 440V 3-phase (standard) or 220V single-phase
Load Capacity
Max Payload: ~57,700–58,600 lbs (26,200–26,600 kg), Euro Pallets: 20–22 pallets (120×80 cm). Industrial Pallets: 18–20 pallets (48×40 inches).
Secure and Durable
Constructed from robust materials like steel, with secure locking mechanisms to protect cargo during transit.
Compliance and Certification
ISO Standards: 1496-2 (reefer specs), 6346 (container coding). Food Safety: NSF/ATP-certified for perishables. Pharma: IATA CEIV Pharma compliant (for vaccines/life-sciences).
Delivery
Delivery
Our 40ft RF containers are delivered across the United States, supporting cold storage operations for food, pharmaceuticals, and temperature-sensitive goods. A reliable power source is required on-site to operate the refrigeration unit. Read our shipping container delivery guidelines for more information on site preparation.
Popular delivery areas include Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Newark.
Find your preferred location across 159 ports and depots in the US. →
Learn more about our delivery process.
Delivery Methods
Best for Level Ground
Tilt Bed Delivery
Our most common delivery method for 20-foot and 40-foot containers. The truck's bed tilts toward the ground and the container slides off the rear, no crane or forklift needed on your end.
Multiple units
Flatbed delivery
A cost-effective option, especially when delivering multiple containers at once. Keep in mind you'll need a forklift or crane on-site to unload, the truck doesn't carry lifting equipment.
For tight spaces
Crane truck delivery
The truck's onboard crane lifts and places the container exactly where you need it over fences, into narrow yards, or onto uneven ground. The best option when access to your site is limited.
Payments & Financing
Purchase your 40ft reefer container with one-time payment, rent-to-own, or container financing, making it easier to invest in temperature-controlled storage without high upfront costs. Options are available for businesses, government buyers, and cold chain operations.
Read more about our payment options.
Warranty
When you buy reefer containers from Pelican Containers, you get:
New Refrigerated containers (One-Trip)
- 5-year warranty on cooling components: Covers the performance and reliability of the refrigeration system under normal operating conditions.
- 10-year warranty on container structure: Covers the structural integrity of the frame, walls, roof, and flooring system.
Used / Refurbished Refrigerated containers
- 6-month warranty on cooling components: Covers basic functionality and performance of the refrigeration unit for 6 months after purchase.
- 5-year warranty on container structure: Covers the main structural components, including the steel frame and flooring system.
Each unit available for sale is inspected before delivery to ensure proper cooling performance, door sealing, and structural integrity.
The warranty does not cover normal cosmetic wear (such as dents, scratches, or surface rust), damage caused by misuse or improper handling, or unauthorized modifications. Read more about our guarantee and our warranty terms.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Container Details
What are the features of a 40ft reefer container?
Key features of a 40ft reefer container include a robust Corten steel exterior, a stainless steel interior, advanced digital refrigeration units (e.g., Daikin, Carrier) that maintain temperatures between –30°C and +30°C (–22°F to +86°F), and an aluminum T-floor for airflow.
What is the difference between a 40ft Reefer and a 40ft High Cube Reefer container?
The primary difference between a 40ft reefer and a 40ft High Cube reefer container is height and capacity: a 40ft HC reefer is 1 foot (approx. 30cm) taller, providing higher internal volume (approximetly 10% more).
How many pallets fit in a 40ft reefer container?
You can fit approximately 20 to 21 American pallets (40" x 48") and 23 to 25 Euro pallets (47.2" x 31.5") inside a 40ft reefer container.
What is the code for a 40ft reefer?
The ISO code for a 40ft reefer container is 42R1, representing a 40ft-long, 8' 6" high refrigerated unit.
How does a reefer container work?
It uses a built-in refrigeration system connected to an external power source to circulate heated or cold air and maintain a stable internal temperature.
Delivery, Payments & Buying
What is the price of a 40FT reefer container?
The price of a new (one-trip) 40ft reefer usually ranges from $8,000 to $13,500, while a used (Cargo-worthy) container costs $4,500 to $7,500.
What does a new 40ft reefer container cost?
A few 40ft reefer containers cost between $8,000 – $13,500 depending on location and container availability.
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What Our Clients Say
Countless satisfied customers have chosen Pelican Containers as their trusted partner for all their container needs.
Cal Power Mario
2025-10-07
Victoria was great at helping me out. would buy from her again.
Jamie Jamal
2025-09-27
Taking a moment to send a big shot out to the Pelican Container Family…. I’m building a shipping container home using 45’ shipping containers. This project started when I purchased 4 boxes from conexwest who sold me (4) 45’ boxes for 6990.00 each (😳) only for 2 of them to be damaged with holes in the structure. They refunded 1 & refused to refund the other. To keep my project from being delayed during the damaged box dispute. I needed a total of 4 boxes to complete the project. I doubled back to conexwest & purchases 2 more boxes @ 6690.00 for 2 with delivery. This purchase was made on 11/23. Conexwest refused to deliver my boxes from purchase date to 9/15/25 only to refund me 9/16/25 after heing contacted by the new station about my order for the purchase made 11/23. I was without a box and came across Pelican Containers… the price I saw was totally fair. I reached out and was contacted by Roselle, she is absolutely perfect to work with. I wasn’t sure at first yet Roselle’s communication is top notch! The delivery was quick! The driver of the box was awesome! The transport team was very cool and flexible. The box showed up just as a used box should some rust… some dents…. Yet WWT for sure Cargo worthy… I’m very thankful and I will ALWAYS USE PELICAN CONTAINERS for my shipping continue purchases!
Roselle thank you and your team & as we shared we will continue this business relationship for the time to come!
Galen Kenyon
2025-09-18
Valery was a pleasure to work with! She went above and beyond to locate, secure, and ship a flat rack container that suited our needs. We were on a tight schedule, and her diligence and efforts allowed us to purchase and take delivery of the container in just a few short days. She was a key factor in making our project a success! Thanks again, Valery and Pelican Containers!
Paul Abate
2025-08-11
Victoria was pleasant to work with. Container was in excellent condition as promised. Prompt delivery and very courteous driver with keeping my placement requests in mind.
David Gray
2025-08-07
We were looking for a unique style of container. The one we originally committed to purchasing was sold before we closed the deal. We ended up with a very nice container that had all the characteristics we required, but had a hinged double door on the side. It worked out nicely and Reniel Villar was true to his word. The 4 rating (still very good) was not a 5 due to timing and circumstance. We wood buy from Pelican again. Also, the logistics company's driver was spectacular.
james mackie
2025-08-07
We had some initial issues getting the specific container we needed, but Reniel kept working until we got exactly what we wanted. Delivery and set-up were excellent...
Jon Goodwin
2025-08-01
Container delivery by VH Pigg was top notch, on time, ensured perfect placement, great experience.
Jeffrey Grey
2025-05-20
We are very satisfied with the service and products from Pelican Containers
Philadelphia Luthier Tools
2025-05-05
Ordered a single trip container. Arrived fast and exactly as described. Sales person (Ravhen) was very helpful in answering our question and kept us updated on delivery. The delivery driver was also very knowledgeable and friendly.
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