Refrigerated

Refrigerated Containers in California

Temperature-controlled from -25°F to +70°F. Purpose-built for California breweries, produce farms, caterers, food operations, and cannabis facilities. Delivery included statewide.

Get a Reefer Quote (330) 510-5817
What Is a Reefer Container?

Industrial-Grade Temperature Control in a Steel Container

A refrigerated container -- "reefer" in industry terms -- is a standard shipping container with an integrated refrigeration unit built into one end wall. The unit runs continuously or on a set schedule, circulating conditioned air through a raised aluminum T-floor that allows air to flow beneath stored goods.

Reefer containers were designed for international perishable food shipping -- they maintain precise temperatures across ocean voyages, in extreme heat, and in arctic cold. California's climate is far less demanding than their designed operating environment. What that means for you: a reefer container on your California property will reliably hold its set temperature whether it's a 95°F summer day in San Francisco or a cool 40°F winter night in Northern California.

Reefers require a power source to operate -- typically a 460V 3-phase electrical connection. If your property doesn't have 3-phase, a diesel or natural gas generator can be used instead. We can discuss power options when you inquire.

Key Specifications

Available Sizes 20ft & 40ft
Temperature Range -25°F to +70°F
Power Requirement 460V 3-phase (or generator)
Floor Type Aluminum T-floor (raised)
Wall Insulation Integral -- polyurethane foam
20ft Interior Volume ~1,000 cu ft
40ft Interior Volume ~2,200 cu ft

Reefer units we sell have been inspected and tested. The refrigeration system is verified to operate before delivery. We'll discuss any service history or maintenance notes we have for the unit.

California Applications

Who Uses Reefer Containers in California

California Craft Breweries

California has one of the highest concentrations of craft breweries in the country. Breweries use reefer containers to store hops (which require cold storage to preserve aromatic compounds), malted barley, yeast cultures, and finished product awaiting distribution. A 40ft reefer provides substantial cold storage without the expense of expanding a refrigerated warehouse.

Produce Farms -- Central Valley & Beyond

The Central Valley is California's premier produce region -- fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other crops. Farms use reefer containers for pre-cooling harvested produce before truck shipment and for extending post-harvest shelf life. The container can be positioned directly at the field-side packing area.

Caterers & Event Operations

California's busy event industry -- weddings, corporate events, festivals, and outdoor venues -- relies on additional cold storage during peak season. Caterers use reefer containers at event venues and staging areas where permanent refrigeration isn't available. A 20ft reefer can be positioned temporarily on-site for the event duration.

Cannabis Industry

California's mature cannabis industry uses temperature-controlled containers for curing and storage of harvested flower, for ingredient storage in manufacturing operations, and for climate-sensitive finished product. The reefer's temperature precision and secure lockable doors are both valuable in a regulated compliance environment.

Meat Processing & Ranch Operations

California ranchers, hunting operations, and small-scale meat processors use reefer containers for game hanging, beef aging, and cold storage between processing and sale. During hunting season in rural California, a reefer at a ranch or camp base provides essential game processing capacity.

Medical & Pharmaceutical

Medical clinics, hospitals, and pharmaceutical distributors in California use reefer containers for temperature-sensitive vaccine and medication storage, especially during facility expansions or emergency situations requiring additional capacity on short notice.

Power Requirements

Running a Reefer Container in California

Standard Power Connection

Reefer containers are designed to plug into a 460V 3-phase, 60Hz power supply -- the standard for commercial and industrial electrical systems. If your California property is commercial, agricultural, or industrial, there's a good chance you already have access to 3-phase power.

A qualified electrician can install a power outlet at your desired reefer location. The refrigeration unit draws approximately 7–12 kW depending on the set temperature and ambient conditions.

Generator Option

If your California property doesn't have 3-phase power -- a rural ranch, an off-grid location, or a temporary event site -- a diesel or natural gas generator rated for 3-phase output can power the reefer unit. Generator rentals are widely available in California through equipment rental companies.

We can discuss generator sizing and compatibility when you inquire about a specific reefer unit.

Operating in California's Climate

In California's hotter inland areas, the refrigeration unit may work harder during peak summer temperatures. Well-maintained reefer units operated in California's typical climate conditions perform reliably without special modification. Even in the Central Valley's hottest summer weather, the insulated container construction and industrial-grade refrigeration system maintain set temperatures without issue.

Questions about reefer performance at your specific California location? Call us and describe your location and intended use -- we can give you an honest assessment.

Condition of Reefer Units

We sell used reefer containers that have been inspected and tested. The refrigeration unit is run and confirmed to reach set temperature. Container structure is evaluated for WWT status. We'll share any service notes or maintenance history we have for the unit at the time of sale.

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FAQ

Reefer Container Questions

Most reefer containers can operate from -25°F at the cold end to +70°F at the warm end. The exact range depends on the specific refrigeration unit model. For most California applications -- produce storage (34–40°F), brewery cold storage (34–38°F), frozen storage (-10°F to 0°F) -- the reefer's operating range is more than adequate.
A standard reefer unit requires 460V 3-phase power to operate. Most commercial, agricultural, and industrial properties in California have 3-phase available. Residential properties typically do not. If you don't have 3-phase, a diesel generator that provides 3-phase output is the standard alternative for temporary or remote deployments. Tell us your power situation when you inquire and we can discuss options.
A running reefer unit produces noise comparable to an HVAC condenser unit or a large window air conditioner -- roughly 65–75 dB at 30 feet. This is generally not an issue for commercial, agricultural, or rural locations. For properties near residences or in noise-sensitive areas, the reefer's placement relative to neighbors is worth considering. We're happy to discuss placement options.
Yes, reefer containers are used by California cannabis operations for temperature and humidity-sensitive product storage. A reefer container provides precise temperature control, a lockable secure environment, and the footprint flexibility to position it where you need it on your licensed facility. Verify any specific equipment requirements with your MED compliance team before purchasing.

Need a Reefer Container in California?

Call (330) 510-5817 or fill out the form. Describe your use case and power situation and we'll find the right unit for your California operation.