New 20-foot reefer container

How to correctly choose a 20-foot refrigerated container

There are many factors to consider when purchasing a 20-foot refrigerated container:

First of all, it should be noted that most containers used by shipping companies have scratches, rust, minor patches, and dents. This occurs due to sea transport, loading/unloading in ports, and on the ship. These defects are not critical.

However, if the container's outer shell is peeling and air pockets form between the polyurethane insulation and/or poor-quality repairs have been made without adhering to IICL / CARGO WORTHY standards.

Below is a list of criteria to pay attention to when choosing a 20-foot refrigerated container. We recommend focusing on the following:

Structure

• Doors — should open/close easily, tightly, and without much effort; seals must be intact and in place, fit snugly, without cracks or visible deformations.
• Floor — rigid, not sagging, not wobbling, and free of rotted areas.
• Ceiling — without sagging, holes, or leaks where it meets the side walls.
• Walls — rigid, no insulation peeling; when tapped, the sound should be dull. Peeling allows moisture in and reduces thermal insulation, increasing energy consumption.
• Roof — intact, without holes. If there are patches, check the quality of the repair.
• Load-bearing beams — may show signs of repair; carefully check the quality of work done.

Refrigeration Unit

When inspecting the refrigeration unit, pay attention to:

• Presence or absence of oil leaks in the refrigeration circuit; if present, it indicates a freon leak.
• Condenser — rigid, not flaking.
• Control cabinet — fully equipped with electronics.
• Compressor — often has rust from sea salt, which does not affect operation. Pay attention to noise and unusual sounds for a detailed inspection.

When checking the container while running, no errors should appear on the display. Any errors indicate a malfunction.

Door plate — mandatory. It is the container's passport showing information about the manufacturer, year of production, identification number, and more. The plate must be original and comply with ISO standards.

Be sure to check the availability of documents that the seller must have. In addition to transaction documents (contract, invoice, etc.), the most important document is the Cargo Customs Declaration. Having this document protects against fines and confiscation in case of illegal import. The document usually contains an official stamp and information that exactly matches the container (number on all walls, plate, and door).

In conclusion: when choosing a 20-foot refrigerated container, it is essential to inspect it thoroughly — from the external appearance and refrigeration unit functionality to the seller's competence and reliability. Purchasing such a container is an important step that requires caution. Remember, a refrigerated container is equipment that requires experience in handling and maintenance. Our specialists are always ready to advise you during purchase and operation of the container.