40ft Used High Cube Ex Marine Refrigerated Containers
40ft used high cube ex-marine refrigerated containers, commonly known as reefers, are ISO-built, temperature-controlled containers originally used in international shipping. With extra internal height, heavy insulation, and marine-grade refrigeration systems, they are ideal for frozen, chilled, or temperature-sensitive storage, export shipping, and specialist conversion projects across the UK.
What Is a Refrigerated (Reefer) Container?
Refrigerated containers, often referred to as reefers, are specialist shipping containers designed to maintain a controlled internal temperature regardless of external conditions.
Originally built for transporting perishable goods by sea, reefers are now widely used for:
- Static cold storage
- Frozen storage
- Temperature-controlled logistics
- Specialist commercial applications
Unlike standard containers, reefers feature integrated refrigeration machinery, high-performance insulation, and food-grade interiors.
What Does “Ex-Marine” Mean?
An ex-marine refrigerated container is a unit retired from active service by a shipping line or leasing company.
These containers:
- Have been maintained to strict maritime standards
- Are designed for continuous international operation
- Show cosmetic wear from shipping use
- Remain structurally sound and thermally efficient
Marine-spec reefers are built for reliability rather than appearance.
Why Choose a 40ft High Cube Reefer?
A 40ft high cube refrigerated container offers more internal height than standard reefers, making it ideal for high-volume or tall palletised goods.
Key advantages include:
- Extra internal height for improved airflow and loading
- Large internal capacity for bulk cold storage
- Better suitability for conversion projects
- Strong value compared to multiple smaller units
If space allows, 40ft high cube reefers provide excellent cost-per-cubic-metre value.
Two Types of 40ft Used High Cube Reefers Available
Used Fully Operational (Refurbished / Cargo-Worthy)
These units are:
- Fully functional with working refrigeration machinery
- PTI tested to confirm operational performance
- CSC plated, suitable for export shipping
- Capable of maintaining set temperatures
Ideal for:
- Frozen and chilled storage
- Temperature-controlled export
- Food, pharmaceutical, and logistics use
Used Non-Operational (Thermal Storage)
These containers:
- Retain full insulation and structural integrity
- Have non-operational machinery
- Are not used for active refrigeration
Commonly used for:
- Temperature-stable dry storage
- Wood drying kilns
- Conversion projects (shops, offices, kitchens)
- Specialist insulated storage
These units offer excellent value where active cooling is not required.
Temperature Control & Performance (Operational Units)
Operational 40ft high cube reefers typically offer:
- Temperature ranges approx. -25°C to +25°C
- Thermostat-controlled refrigeration systems
- Stable internal environments regardless of weather
This makes them suitable for frozen, chilled, or controlled-ambient storage.
Construction & Materials (Marine Spec)
40ft ex-marine high cube reefers are constructed using:
- Corrosion-resistant steel or aluminium outer shell
- Stainless steel or food-grade aluminium interior
- High-performance insulation layers
- Aluminium T-bar flooring for airflow
This multi-material build delivers durability, hygiene, thermal efficiency, and security.
Shipping Certification & Testing
Depending on configuration, units may be supplied with:
- Valid CSC for export shipping (operational units)
- PTI testing confirming machinery performance
This ensures containers are safe, compliant, and operational at dispatch.
Standard 40ft High Cube Reefer Specifications
- External dimensions: 40ft (L) × 8ft (W) × 9ft 6in (H)
- Construction: Marine-grade steel / aluminium
- Interior: Stainless steel / food-grade aluminium
- Floor: Aluminium T-bar flooring
- Condition: Used / Ex-Marine
- Power requirement:
- 32 Amp
- 3-phase power supply
- D-rated (motor-rated) circuit breaker
Individual units vary by age, machinery type, and specification.
Typical Uses for 40ft High Cube Refrigerated Containers
These units are widely used by:
- Food and beverage distributors
- Seafood exporters
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Catering and event businesses
- Supermarkets and wholesalers
- Agricultural producers
They are also frequently used as walk-in freezers or fridges, offering significant savings over fixed cold-room installations.
Condition & What to Expect
Used reefers are sold for performance and insulation, not cosmetic appearance.
You should expect:
- Dents, scratches, and shipping livery
- Signs of previous marine use
- Cosmetic wear consistent with age
All functional aspects are assessed before sale where applicable.
Optional Extras & Conversions
Depending on application, options may include:
- Internal lighting
- Man-trap alarms
- Thermal strip curtains
- Flooring upgrades
- Repainting for improved appearance
- Conversion work for bespoke projects
Because reefers are specialised equipment, discussing requirements in advance is strongly recommended. – Check Out Our Shipping Container Conversion Page For More Information!
Delivery & Power Considerations
40ft reefers require:
- Suitable access for large delivery vehicles
- Adequate offloading space – See More Info Here On Shipping Container Delivery Information
- 3-phase power supply on site
If power or access is uncertain, this should be checked before ordering.
Why Buy a 40ft Reefer from Bosh Boxes?
- Marine-spec containers sourced from trusted shipping lines
- Honest advice on operational vs non-operational units
- PTI and CSC supplied where applicable
- UK-wide delivery available
- Practical guidance to ensure suitability
We focus on making sure the reefer fits your use case, not overselling specifications.
Bottom Line
If you need high-capacity, temperature-controlled storage or shipping capability, a 40ft used high cube ex-marine refrigerated container delivers outstanding value. With marine-grade construction, excellent insulation, and flexible configurations, it remains one of the most capable cold-storage solutions available.
If a 40ft High Cube Container Is Too Big, Why Not Check Out Our 20ft Used Reefer Units?
For availability, specifications, and a tailored quote, contact Bosh Boxes today — The Bosh Boxes Way.
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