40' reefer high-cube container

Specifications

40' reefer high-cube

Length: 11.58 m
Width: 2.29 m
Height: 2.50 m

Door width: 2.29 m
Door height: 2.50 m
Max payload: 28.35 t

Capacity: 67 cbm
Max EUR pallets: 23

ISO code: 42R0

Facts

A 40 ft reefer high-cube container can load 28,350 kilos. The reefer container can keep the goods at a constant temperature and is therefore intended for the transport of refrigerated goods and frozen products. A reefer container is typically used for transport of pharmaceuticals, fruits, fish, meat, wine, dairy products, ice cream and other frozen goods. The products need a specific temperature to stay fresh.

A reefer container can cool in different zones, part of the container can for example ensure cooling of 5° C, while other areas are for goods that require -18° C. The temperature can be set between -30° C and + 30° C. We also have super freezer reefer containers, which can go down to -60 °C. A reefer shipping container requires either electricity or fuel to keep going, and therefore it is more expensive to use this container type.

The container has a height of 2.50 metres and an inside width of 2.28 metres. A high-cube 40 'reefer container has a tare weight of 3,900 kilos and a length of 11.58 metres.

When should you choose a 40-foot high-cube reefer container?

A 40-foot high-cube reefer container is designed for temperature-controlled cargo that requires stable conditions during transport. It offers both refrigerated transport and additional internal height, making it suitable for larger volumes of chilled or frozen goods.
This container type is often used when the cargo must be kept within a specific temperature range from origin to destination. The high-cube design provides extra vertical space compared with a standard reefer container, which can be useful for taller pallets or larger packaged goods.

A 40-foot high-cube reefer container is often used for:

Fruit and vegetables
Fish and seafood
Meat and poultry
Dairy products
Frozen food
Pharmaceuticals
Wine and beverages
Temperature-sensitive consumer goods
Cargo loaded on EUR pallets
Larger refrigerated full container load shipments

Before booking a reefer container, it is important to know the required temperature range, cargo volume, packaging type and loading method. Airflow is also essential. The cargo must be packed and loaded in a way that allows cold air to circulate throughout the container.

A 40-foot high-cube reefer container (HC) can normally fit up to 23 EUR pallets, depending on pallet height, packaging and loading layout. One-way pallets can be used instead of EUR pallets. However, the full container space should not always be used if it restricts airflow or affects temperature performance.

Compared with a dry high-cube container, a reefer high-cube container has refrigeration equipment installed. This reduces some of the internal space but makes it suitable for cargo that requires controlled temperature throughout the journey.

Reefer containers require power to maintain the set temperature, both during sea transport and at terminals or inland transport points. For this reason, reefer transport often requires more planning than standard dry cargo.

Although container dimensions are standardised, actual measurements, payload and equipment performance may vary depending on the specific container and availability. For temperature-sensitive cargo, the specifications and temperature requirements should always be confirmed before transport.

Blue Water’s reefer and sea freight specialists can help assess whether a 40-foot high-cube reefer container is the right solution for your shipment. We consider cargo type, temperature requirements, route, loading method and delivery conditions to help ensure a reliable cold chain setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

A 40-foot high-cube reefer container is used for temperature-controlled cargo such as fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, dairy products, frozen goods, pharmaceuticals, wine and other sensitive products.

A reefer container has refrigeration equipment that helps maintain a specific temperature during transport. A dry container does not have temperature control and is used for general cargo.

A high-cube reefer container provides extra internal height compared with a standard reefer container. This can be useful for taller pallets, larger packaging or shipments where additional vertical space is needed.

A 40-foot high-cube reefer container can normally fit up to 23 EUR pallets. The exact number depends on pallet height, packaging, cargo type and the required airflow around the goods.

The temperature setting depends on the cargo and equipment. According to the current container specifications, the temperature can be set between -30°C and +30°C. We also have super freezer reefer containers, which can go down to -60°C.

Yes. A reefer container requires power to maintain the set temperature. Power supply must be available during the relevant parts of the transport chain, including sea transport, terminal handling and inland transport when required.

You should check the required temperature range, cargo dimensions, cargo weight, pallet layout, packaging, airflow requirements and route conditions before booking.

Yes. Dimensions, payload and equipment availability may vary. For temperature-sensitive cargo, always confirm the container specifications and temperature requirements before transport.

Container types and sizes

Please note! Dimensions are a guideline only. For exact dimensions and container directions, please contact Blue Water. Containers for heavy cargo are available on request.

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