Cold Storage Tips
10 minute read

The Cool Facts About 20ft Refrigerated Containers

20ft refrigerated container - 20ft refrigerated container
Written by
Icebox Staff
Published on
August 18, 2025

The Ultimate Guide to the 20ft Refrigerated Trailer

When you need reliable, on-site cold storage, a 20ft refrigerated container (often called a mobile refrigerated trailer) is a versatile solution. These self-contained, insulated units are equipped with a powerful cooling system to keep your perishable goods safe and fresh, right where you need them.

Delivered directly to your location, they provide immediate access to temperature-controlled space, making them perfect for restaurants, caterers, events, and businesses needing temporary or emergency cold storage. Essentially a walk-in cooler or freezer on wheels, these trailers are built to handle demanding situations, bridging the gap when your existing cold storage is full, under repair, or simply unavailable.

Infographic highlighting the benefits of mobile refrigerated trailers for on-demand, local cold storage—flexibility, ground-level access, and energy efficiency. - 20ft refrigerated container infographic

Our mobile refrigerated trailers are designed specifically for on-site, temporary cold storage. Their primary purpose is to maintain a controlled temperature environment, ensuring that your valuable goods—be they food, pharmaceuticals, or delicate flowers—remain in perfect condition. We deliver these units directly to your location, making them an incredibly convenient and flexible solution.

Key Features and Specifications of a 20ft Refrigerated Trailer

Our 20ft refrigerated container units are engineered for efficiency and reliability.

Dimensions and CapacityA 20ft refrigerated trailer offers significant storage in a compact footprint. External dimensions are typically 20' L x 8' W x 8' 6" H. Internally, you get around 1,000 cubic feet of usable space, which can hold 9 to 12 standard pallets.

Insulation and InteriorSuperior insulation is key to performance. Our trailers use high-efficiency polyurethane foam to maintain consistent temperatures. The interior features durable, easy-to-clean stainless steel walls and reinforced aluminum T-bar flooring, which promotes even air circulation around your products.

Access and ConvenienceHeavy-duty cargo doors with weather seals prevent air leakage. Many units also include a side door for quick access, minimizing temperature loss. Bright LED lighting ensures visibility, and integrated forklift pockets allow for precise placement on your site.

Power and Temperature Control: How It Stays Cool

At the heart of every 20ft refrigerated container is a sophisticated and reliable cooling system.

Precision Temperature ControlOur refrigerated trailers feature user-friendly digital controllers for setting precise temperatures. They can operate as a mobile freezer trailer or a cooler, with a typical range from a deep-freezing -20°F (-29°C) to a chilled +41°F (+5°C).

The 110V AdvantageA major benefit of our trailers is their simple power requirement. Unlike industrial refrigerated units needing high-voltage, three-phase power, our units are designed to be plug-and-play. They run on a standard 110-volt outlet, eliminating the need for special wiring and making setup incredibly convenient.

Energy-Efficient CoolingHigh-airflow evaporators ensure cold air circulates evenly, preventing hot spots. Our modern mobile cooler trailers also use energy-efficient components and non-ozone-depleting refrigerants, with automatic defrost cycles to maintain peak performance.

Want to learn more about how our portable refrigeration units can serve your needs? Check out our detailed information here: More info about our portable refrigeration units.

Top Industries and Uses for a 20ft Refrigerated Trailer

Our 20ft refrigerated container units are versatile solutions for a multitude of industries.

  • Restaurants and Food Service: Gain immediate overflow space for ingredients and beverages during peak times, kitchen remodels, or equipment failures.
  • Caterers: Ensure food safety with on-site cold storage for weddings, festivals, and large events.
  • Florists: Protect delicate flowers and large arrangements with precise temperature control, especially during holidays.
  • Breweries and Beverage Distributors: Manage seasonal inventory and supply outdoor events with perfectly chilled drinks.
  • Pharmaceutical and Healthcare: Store temperature-sensitive medications and vaccines securely during facility maintenance or emergencies.
  • Seasonal Overflow: Handle inventory surges during holidays or harvest seasons without investing in permanent infrastructure.
  • Emergency Storage: Deploy a unit quickly with our 24-hour service to prevent product loss from power outages or equipment breakdowns.
  • Special Events: Provide essential cold storage for food and beverage vendors at concerts, fairs, and markets.
  • Food Safety Compliance: Our trailers help you maintain the controlled temperatures required by food safety regulations, ensuring product integrity and compliance.

Delivery and Site Preparation: What to Expect

We handle the delivery of your 20ft refrigerated container directly to your location. Our team positions the ground-level unit exactly where you need it for easy access.

To ensure a smooth setup, your site should have:

  1. A firm, level surface (pavement, concrete, or compacted gravel).
  2. Clear access for our delivery truck (approx. 65 feet of straight clearance).
  3. A standard 110-volt electrical outlet nearby.

Once positioned, the setup is plug-and-play. Connect it to power, set your temperature, and your on-site cold storage is ready to use.

Is a Mobile Refrigerated Trailer Your Best Solution?

For many businesses, a 20ft refrigerated container—or mobile refrigerated trailer—is the smartest choice for temporary cold storage. It offers best flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and convenience.

Best Flexibility for Dynamic Needs

Business needs change. You might face a seasonal inventory surge, an unexpected equipment failure, or a planned kitchen renovation. Our mobile units can be delivered quickly and picked up when you're done, so you only pay for storage when you need it. It's a far more adaptable solution than the time and expense of permanent construction. With locations across the East Coast, including Akron, Charlotte, Miami, Nashville, and Pittsburgh, we provide fast, local service.

Cost-Effectiveness That Makes Sense

Renting a 20ft refrigerated container avoids the large upfront investment, maintenance costs, and depreciation of buying a unit. It also sidesteps the permits, construction, and potential property tax increases of building a permanent walk-in. With our rental solution, you get a simple, predictable fee. We handle delivery, setup, and maintenance, saving you money and hassle.

Convenience That Keeps You Cool

Our mobile cooler trailers are designed for ease of use. We deliver the unit to your site, and its ground-level access makes loading and unloading simple. The best part? Our 110-volt units plug into a standard electrical outlet. This "plug-and-play" setup means your cold storage is operational in minutes.

Plus, our 24-hour emergency service provides peace of mind. If an issue arises with your refrigerated trailer, our team is available around the clock to ensure your products stay safe.

Renting vs. Buying: The Clear Choice for Temporary Needs

For temporary or fluctuating cold storage needs, renting is the superior option. It gives you the flexibility to scale your capacity up or down without the financial commitment of ownership. Our clean, modern, and reliable 20ft refrigerated container units are ready to support your business.

Ready for a simple and reliable on-site cold storage solution? Explore our rental options today and let Icebox help you keep your cool!

Choose the perfect rental option

Explore our wide range of trailer rentals and find the one that suits your needs