What Size Refrigerated Container Do I Need?
Finding the perfect-sized refrigerated shipping container for your exact needs is challenging. Especially when you’re searching for the Goldilocks of containers: not too big so you’re paying high refrigeration costs, and not so small that you can’t fit everything you need to. If you’re wondering, What size refrigerated container do I need, we’re here to help you narrow down your options and find the best choice for your particular use case.
In today’s market, most businesses choose a 40-foot high cube refrigerated container. It’s the most widely available option and offers the best combination of capacity and efficiency for long-term use.
20-foot refrigerated containers are available, but inventory is typically more limited. They’re a good fit for smaller applications—but they’re not as common or as easy to source depending on your location.
What Are the Standard Shipping Container Sizes?
While you may see a range of sizes mentioned online, the industry really centers around two primary options:
20-Foot Refrigerated Shipping Container - Compact and efficient for smaller-scale storage needs
40-Foot High Cube Refrigerated Container - The standard choice for most operations, offering maximum storage and vertical space
Refrigerated Shipping Container Size Comparison
| Best For | Capacity | Benefit | |
| 20-Foot | Smaller operations, tight spaces | 10-12 pallets | Balances cost, storage capacity, and flexibility |
| 40-Foot High Cube | Storage for bulky items | 20-24 pallets (vertical) | Maximum capacity with vertical space |
How to Choose the Right Size Refrigerated Container
What Kind of Products Need to Be Stored? How Much Needs to Be Stored?
The number one question to ask when determining what size refrigerated shipping container you need is what kind of products you’ll be storing and how much.
If you have a smaller volume of temperature-controlled goods or limited space, a 20-foot refrigerated container can be a good fit. However, for most businesses - especially those storing larger quantities or planning for growth - a 40-foot high cube refrigerated container is the more practical choice. It offers significantly more capacity and added vertical space, making it ideal for bulk storage, palletized goods, and taller equipment.
Where Will the Container Be Stored?
The second major question to ask that determines what size shipping container is needed is where the shipping container will be used, or where you’ll be storing it.
If you plan on using it for permanent storage at a single location, consider how much space is available and whether there will be company scaling later on that might require more storage. Larger yards and spaces will be more lenient if you buy a longer or taller cube, whereas small areas aren’t as forgiving.
If your shipping container needs to travel to various locations, consider how it will be transported when deciding on the size. Do you have the machinery and heavy equipment necessary to transport a larger container, or will you need something more compact that can fit on a trailer?
When in Doubt, Size Up
If you’re not 100% sure what size shipping container you need for your company, we always recommend sizing up. If you buy a size that’s too small, it’s hard to adjust later for your particular needs. Meanwhile, a larger container size leaves room for company scaling and unexpected storage needs.
Additional Questions to Ask Before Purchasing
- Will a single-temperature refrigeration unit work, or do you need multiple temperatures?
- Do you have adequate power on-site?
- Will you need additional doors or modifications?
- Is airflow important for your goods?
The Best Refrigerated Container Size for Different Use Cases
The best refrigerated container size depends greatly on your particular company and what you plan to use it for. While not every business fits these typical cases, these are the standard guidelines for what container size we recommend:
- Small retail shop or restaurant — 20-foot or 40-foot high cube
- Catering companies and seasonal businesses — 20-foot
- Food distributor and warehouse storage — 40-foot high cube
- Pharmaceutical storage — 20-foot or 40-foot high cube
- Industrial equipment storage — 40-foot high cube
- Event and temporary use — 20-foot
Unsure what size or type of refrigerated container your unique project needs?
Talk to a shipping container expert today to figure out the exact container size that fits your business.
Super Cubes is a family-owned business located in Minneapolis, MN, that provides containers anywhere in the continental US. We offer personalized service for individuals and businesses, providing high-quality containers at competitive prices. With nationwide facilities, we can modify and deliver containers close to you. Contact our experienced team for your next container project.