A 20ft refrigerated container cost in the UK typically ranges from £4,500 to £7,500 for a used ex-marine unit and from £18,995 for a new container. Pricing depends on condition, refrigeration system, age, and delivery access. Buyers comparing new and used refrigerated containers should also factor in running costs, power requirements, and intended use.
Quick Answer: 20ft Refrigerated Container Cost
- Used 20ft refrigerated container: £4,500 – £7,500
- New 20ft refrigerated container: from £18,995
- Additional costs: delivery, power supply, commissioning, and maintenance
What Is a Refrigerated Container?
A refrigerated container, often called a reefer container, is a temperature-controlled steel storage container designed to keep goods chilled or frozen.
A 20ft refrigerated container is commonly used for:
- Food storage
- Pharmaceutical storage
- Event catering
- Cold chain logistics
These units are ISO-certified and built to maintain consistent internal temperatures, often between -25°C and +25°C.
For a full breakdown of how these systems work, read: How Do Refrigerated Containers Work?
Typical 20ft Refrigerated Container Prices in the UK
Understanding realistic pricing helps buyers avoid overpaying or choosing the wrong specification.
| Container Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 20ft Used Reefer | £4,500 – £7,500 |
| 40ft Used Reefer | £5,500 – £8,500 |
| 20ft New Reefer | From £18,995 |
| 40ft New Reefer | From £19,995 |
Used Refrigerated Containers
- 20ft used ex-marine refrigerated container: £4,500 – £7,500
- 40ft used high cube refrigerated container: £5,500 – £8,500
Used units are the most cost-effective option for buyers needing secure storage at controlled temperatures without the premium of new equipment.
A used refrigerated container is typically wind and watertight and fully functional, but may show cosmetic wear from previous shipping use.
Learn more before buying: Used Refrigerated Containers for Sale UK: What You Need to Know
New Refrigerated Containers
- 20ft new refrigerated container: from £18,995
- 40ft new high cube refrigerated container: from £19,995
New reefers are often referred to as one-trip units. These containers have made a single journey from the manufacturer and are in near-perfect condition.
New units are typically chosen when:
- Long-term reliability is critical
- Food-grade compliance is required
- Aesthetic condition matters
- Lower maintenance risk is preferred
Should You Buy New or Used?
Choosing between new and used depends on budget, usage, and how long the container is needed.
- Used refrigerated container
Lower upfront cost, ideal for short to medium-term use, but may require more maintenance over time - New refrigerated container
Higher upfront cost, longer lifespan, more reliable performance, and lower risk of breakdown
A new refrigerated container is typically the better choice for long-term use or critical storage, while a used unit is often sufficient for general cold storage containers or temporary use.
Domestic Spec Refrigerated Containers (UK Buyers Should Know This)
A 20ft new refrigerated container can also be supplied in domestic specification, which is designed specifically for UK on-site storage rather than global shipping.
Domestic spec refrigerated containers often include:
- Internal lighting
- Panic alarm button inside the unit
- PVC strip curtains to reduce cold air loss
- Easy-access ramp for loading
Domestic spec refrigerated containers cost more than standard new units because of these added safety and usability features.
Domestic spec refrigerated containers are commonly used for catering businesses, schools, and events where cold storage containers need to be accessed regularly throughout the day.
Common Refrigeration Unit Manufacturers
Most 20ft refrigerated containers are fitted with recognised refrigeration systems from global manufacturers such as Carrier, Thermo King, Starcool or Daikin.
These systems are widely used across the UK, meaning:
- Spare parts are readily available
- Engineers are familiar with servicing them
- Faults can be diagnosed quickly
A refrigerated container fitted with a known manufacturer is generally easier and cheaper to maintain over time.
Refrigerated Containers vs Cold Storage Containers
Refrigerated containers are often referred to as cold storage containers or temperature controlled containers in the UK.
All three terms describe the same type of unit. A refrigerated container uses an integrated cooling system to maintain a consistent internal temperature for storage or transport.
Buyers searching for reefer containers or cold storage containers are typically looking for the same product with slightly different terminology.
To find out mote about cold storage containers, read: Temporary Cold Storage Solutions Using Shipping Containers (UK Guide)
Why Refrigerated Container Prices Vary
A 20ft refrigerated container cost is not fixed. Several key factors influence the final price.
Delivery access
Tight sites or long distances can increase container delivery UK costs.
Condition
New containers cost significantly more than used units due to lifespan and reliability.
Refrigeration unit type
Different systems vary in efficiency and performance.
Age and service history
Older units may be cheaper but require more maintenance.
Temperature requirements
Freezer-grade units may carry higher costs.
Running Costs Buyers Often Overlook
The purchase price is only part of the total cost. Installation, commissioning, and ongoing running costs all need to be considered.
A temperature controlled container requires consistent power to maintain internal conditions and avoid temperature fluctuations.
Typical considerations include:
- Electricity consumption
- Servicing and repairs
- Lifespan of the refrigeration unit
To understand the full cost of ownership, read: Reefer Container Running Costs: Electricity, Maintenance and Lifespan
You should also review power requirements before purchase: how much power a refrigerated container uses in the UK.
Commissioning and Setup Costs (Often Missed)
A refrigerated container is not simply delivered and ready to use immediately.
Once delivered, a refrigerated container should be commissioned by a qualified engineer to ensure the unit is set up correctly and operating safely.
Commissioning typically includes:
- Connecting the container to the correct power supply
- Setting the required temperature
- Checking the refrigeration system is running correctly
- Explaining how the controls work
- Advising on correct usage and maintenance
Commissioning is an additional cost that buyers should factor in when budgeting for a refrigerated container.
A properly commissioned refrigerated container reduces the risk of faults, temperature issues, and incorrect operation.
Some suppliers include commissioning, while others arrange it separately, so it is worth confirming this before purchase.
Common Buyer Concerns (Answered)
Is a used refrigerated container reliable?
A used refrigerated container can be reliable if properly inspected and tested. Many ex-marine units are still fully operational and suitable for storage use.
Do refrigerated containers need constant power?
A refrigerated container must remain powered to maintain temperature. Once power is removed, the internal temperature will gradually rise.
Are marine spec containers better?
Marine spec refrigerated containers are built for global shipping, meaning they are durable, weather-resistant, and designed for continuous operation.
Learn more here: Marine Spec Refrigerated Containers Explained
Is a 20ft refrigerated container big enough?
A 20ft refrigerated container, also known as a reefer container, provides a balance between storage capacity and delivery access.
It is suitable for most small to medium storage needs.
What is the cheapest way to buy a refrigerated container?
The cheapest option is usually a used 20ft refrigerated container. However, buyers should balance cost against expected lifespan and running efficiency.
Why Bosh Boxes Is the Best Choice
- Fast delivery across the UK, often within 7–10 days
- Every unit inspected before delivery
- All containers wind and watertight and fully functional
- Honest advice on new vs used suitability
- Nationwide container delivery UK with HIAB and sidelifter options
- Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
- Support with access planning and site preparation
Bosh Boxes focuses on helping buyers choose the right container, not just the cheapest option.
How Quickly Can a Refrigerated Container Be Delivered?
Most refrigerated containers can be delivered within 7–10 days in the UK, depending on location and availability.
Delivery time can vary based on access, container specification, and whether a HIAB or sidelifter is required.
Commissioning typically takes place shortly after delivery to ensure the unit is set up correctly and to identify any issues following transport.
How to Get Started
Start by deciding whether a new or used refrigerated container suits your budget and usage.
Then check:
- Power availability on site
- Delivery access and space
- Temperature requirements
For a full overview of refrigerated container options, read: Refrigerated Shipping Containers Explained (UK Buyer Guide)
If you are ready to move forward, request a quote with your location and access details.
For a fast quote and delivery date, contact Bosh Boxes today — your trusted UK shipping container supplier.
