Reefer container shipping moves billions of dollars of temperature-sensitive cargo every year. Fresh produce, frozen foods, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and perishable goods that cannot tolerate temperature deviation. Booking a reefer container correctly requires more preparation than a standard dry container booking, but the process is straightforward when you understand what information you need and what to check.

What is a reefer container?

A reefer container is a refrigerated shipping container with an integrated cooling unit that maintains a specified temperature range throughout the voyage. Modern reefer containers can maintain temperatures from -30°C for frozen cargo to +30°C for tropical or climate-controlled shipments.

Key specifications for reefer containers include:

  • Standard sizes — 20ft and 40ft, with 40ft high cube being the most common for large volume perishables
  • Temperature range — typically -30°C to +30°C with precise temperature control
  • Humidity control — adjustable for cargo types that require specific humidity levels
  • Atmosphere control — modified atmosphere (MA) and controlled atmosphere (CA) options for fresh produce
  • Ventilation — open and closed ventilation settings for different cargo requirements

What information you need to book a reefer container

Before requesting a reefer quote, you need to know:

  • Required setpoint temperature — the exact temperature at which the container must be maintained
  • Pre-cooling requirement — whether the container needs to be pre-cooled before loading
  • Cargo type — the specific product being shipped affects both the temperature setpoint and any atmosphere control requirements
  • Ventilation setting — open, closed, or modified atmosphere
  • Any special certifications required — pharmaceutical-grade reefers have additional monitoring and documentation requirements

How reefer container booking differs from dry container booking

The core booking process is the same, origin port, destination port, container type, sailing selection, and confirmation. The additional steps specific to reefer bookings are:

  • Temperature specification — you must provide the required setpoint at the time of booking; the carrier programs this into the container
  • Pre-cooling confirmation — confirm with the terminal that the container will be pre-cooled to the setpoint before loading
  • Continuous monitoring — reefer containers transmit temperature data throughout the voyage; confirm that monitoring is active
  • Reefer plug connection at terminal — reefer containers require a power connection at the terminal; confirm plug availability for the relevant terminal
  • Additional documentation — pharmaceutical and certain food products require temperature logs from the carrier at destination

Temperature requirements by cargo type

Common temperature setpoints by cargo category are:

  • Fresh fruit and vegetables — typically 0°C to 8°C depending on variety
  • Frozen meat and fish — typically -18°C to -20°C
  • Pharmaceuticals — typically 2°C to 8°C (cold chain) or 15°C to 25°C (ambient monitored)
  • Dairy products — typically 0°C to 4°C
  • Flowers — typically 2°C to 5°C
  • Ice cream — typically -25°C to -30°C

Always confirm the correct setpoint with your product's technical specification rather than using generic temperature guidelines. A setpoint that is too warm risks cargo spoilage. A setpoint that is too cold risks freeze damage for products that are not suitable for freezing.

Reefer container booking on 7ConBooking

7ConBooking supports reefer container bookings across major global trade lanes. When searching for rates, select reefer as your container type and specify your required temperature setpoint. Available reefer options are displayed with all-in pricing including the reefer surcharge. Real-time tracking for reefer shipments includes temperature monitoring data, giving you visibility of your cold chain integrity throughout the voyage.

For pharmaceutical-grade cold chain requirements or specialised atmosphere control, contact the 7ConBooking team for a tailored quote.

Frequently asked questions about reefer container booking

How much more expensive is a reefer container than a dry container?

Reefer containers carry a surcharge over standard dry container rates that varies by trade lane and market conditions. On most long-haul routes, the reefer premium is approximately 20 to 50 percent above the equivalent dry container rate.

What is a reefer surcharge?

A reefer surcharge is an additional charge applied to reefer container bookings to cover the cost of the refrigeration unit, power consumption, and monitoring infrastructure. It is separate from the base ocean freight rate.

Do I need to provide the temperature setpoint when booking?

Yes. The temperature setpoint must be specified at the time of booking so the carrier can program it into the container before loading.

Can I change the temperature setpoint after booking?

Yes, but this must be communicated to the carrier before the container is loaded. Once the vessel has sailed, the temperature setpoint can only be changed by contacting the carrier directly.

How is temperature monitored during ocean transit?

Modern reefer containers transmit real-time temperature data via satellite during the voyage. This data is accessible through carrier tracking portals and through 7ConBooking for bookings made on the platform.

What happens if the reefer unit fails during transit?

Carriers have protocols for monitoring and responding to reefer unit failures. If a failure is detected, the carrier will attempt to repair the unit or transship the cargo to a replacement container. Cargo insurance covering temperature excursion is recommended for all reefer shipments.

Is reefer container booking available for all trade lanes?

Reefer capacity is available on most major trade lanes, though availability may be limited during peak seasons for specific routes. Early booking is recommended for reefer shipments to ensure equipment availability.

 

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