Definitions #
A shipping container with built-in refrigeration, used to keep perishable goods such as fruit, meat, or medicine at a constant cool temperature during transport.
Technical A temperature-controlled intermodal container equipped with a compression refrigeration unit and temperature recorder; commonly used for moving perishable or climate-sensitive freight under a specified set-point.
Example The reefer must be pre-cooled to 2 °C before the apples are loaded at the origin depot.
Etymology #
Clipping of refrigerator/refrigerated, originally US slang; adopted by the container shipping industry in the mid-20th century.
Collocations #
- reefer plug Electrical connection on a quay or vessel that supplies power to the refrigeration unit.
- reefer monitoring Remote tracking of temperature, humidity, and power status of a refrigerated container.
- temperature set point The required cargo temperature programmed into the reefer unit.
- reefer cargo Perishable or temperature-sensitive goods carried in a reefer container.
- reefer container Full name for a refrigerated container; often shortened to reefer.
- reefer operation Day-to-day management of reefer containers, including pre-cooling, venting, and fault response.
Real Business Examples #
- The reefer was found to be running with a temperature deviation of 2 °C, so the shipper filed a claim for spoiled cheese.
- Before dispatch, check that the reefer is set to the agreed temperature and that the power cable is secured.
Register & Variants #
- Register: neutral
- BrE/AmE: Both; the term 'reefer' is standard in international container shipping, though 'refrigerated container' is more formal.
Synonyms & Antonyms #
- Synonyms: refrigerated container, cold chain container
Common Errors #
- Calling a non-refrigerated insulated container a reefer. An insulated container only stabilizes temperature; a reefer actively cools and requires electrical power.
- Assuming a reefer shipment can be sent without a temperature log or pre-trip inspection. Carriers normally require a temperature recorder and pre-trip inspection record; if absent, the container may be refused at the terminal.
Confusable Terms #
- Reefer vessel vs Reefer
- A reefer vessel is a refrigerated ship carrying cargo in its own holds, while a reefer is a single refrigerated container carried onboard a container ship.
- Insulated container vs Reefer
- An insulated container has no active refrigeration unit; it only limits temperature change, whereas a reefer actively controls the temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What power does a reefer need??
Usually 380–460V three-phase; on board a vessel the reefer plugs are operated by the ship's generator.
Who pays for electricity at the terminal??
Varies by port and agreement: plugging and monitoring are often included in the terminal handling charge, but additional standby or cut-off fees may apply.
What happens if the reefer breaks down??
The carrier must be notified immediately; a review of the temperature recorder and the shipper's instructions will normally determine liability for any cargo damage.
Published: 2026-09-22 Category: Shipping