The 12 meter (40 ft) refrigerated container is a large-capacity temperature-controlled storage and transportation solution designed for businesses handling significant volumes of chilled, frozen, and temperature-sensitive products. With an external length of 12.19 meters (40 ft) and an internal capacity of approximately 67–68 m³, it provides extensive refrigerated storage for commercial, agricultural, pharmaceutical, food-processing, logistics, and industrial applications. The refrigeration system can maintain adjustable temperatures from -30°C to +30°C, making the container suitable for frozen, chilled, and other temperature-sensitive cargo. Digital temperature control, automatic regulation, continuous air circulation, and an energy-efficient refrigeration system help maintain stable internal conditions. The container combines a high-strength Corten steel exterior, high-density polyurethane insulation, food-grade stainless steel or aluminium interior lining, and a heavy-duty refrigerated flooring system. 12 Meter (40 ft) Refrigerated Container Specifications Specification Details External Length 12.19 m (40 ft) External Width 2.44 m (8 ft) External Height 2.59 m (8 ft 6 in) Internal Length Approx. 11.56 m Internal Width Approx. 2.29 m Internal Height Approx. 2.25 m Door Opening Width Approx. 2.29 m Door Opening Height Approx. 2.23 m Internal Capacity Approx. 67–68 m³ Maximum Gross Weight 34,000 kg Tare Weight Approx. 4,600–4,900 kg Maximum Payload Approx. 29,000 kg Temperature Range The refrigeration system provides an adjustable temperature range from: -30°C to +30°C Temperature-control features include: Digital temperature controller Precise climate management Adjustable temperature settings Automatic temperature regulation Stable temperature maintenance Suitable for frozen and chilled cargo Suitable for temperature-sensitive products Continuous internal air circulation Automatic defrost function Fresh-air ventilation control Humidity management on applicable models This wide operating range allows the 12 meter (40 ft) refrigerated container to be used for different cold-storage requirements. Construction The container is built for demanding commercial and industrial environments using durable materials designed for strength, insulation, hygiene, and weather resistance. Construction features include: High-strength Corten steel exterior Corrosion-resistant steel construction Stainless steel or aluminium interior lining High-density polyurethane foam insulation Fully insulated walls, roof, and floor Marine-grade plywood or aluminium T-floor Double-gasket insulated doors Airtight door sealing Heavy-duty locking bars Secure door handles Weather-resistant construction Reinforced corner castings for lifting and stacking The insulated structure helps reduce heat transfer and minimise temperature loss, while the durable external shell provides protection against demanding outdoor conditions. Refrigeration System The electric-powered refrigeration system is designed to provide reliable temperature control throughout the large internal storage area. Typical refrigeration features include: Microprocessor-controlled refrigeration unit Digital temperature control Energy-efficient compressor Automatic defrost Continuous air circulation Even cooling throughout the container Fresh-air ventilation control Temperature monitoring Humidity management on selected systems Low-noise refrigeration operation The refrigeration unit operates on a 380–460V, 3-phase, 50/60Hz power supply. The container can also be compatible with generator sets (gensets) for refrigeration operation during transportation or in locations where a suitable fixed electrical supply is unavailable. Refrigerated Flooring and Air Circulation The marine-grade plywood or aluminium T-floor is designed to support refrigerated cargo while allowing cold air to circulate through the storage area. The raised floor system helps distribute refrigerated air beneath and around stored products, supporting more consistent temperature conditions throughout the container. The floor is suitable for pallets, cartons, crates, food products, agricultural produce, and other commercial cargo. Interior Features The interior is designed for practical commercial cold-storage use and can include: Food-grade stainless steel or aluminium surfaces Easy-to-clean internal lining Aluminium or marine-grade refrigerated flooring Interior lighting Fresh-air ventilation control Humidity management on applicable models Internal emergency safety release Multiple cargo securing points Drainage system for cleaning Temperature data logging on many models Digital temperature display Continuous temperature monitoring Common Applications A 12 meter (40 ft) refrigerated container is suitable for storing and transporting a wide range of temperature-sensitive products, including: Fresh fruit and vegetables Frozen foods Meat and poultry Seafood Dairy products Ice cream Flowers and plants Pharmaceuticals Vaccines Beverages Chocolate Catering supplies Agricultural products Food-processing products Commercial cold storage Cold warehouse overflow Event refrigeration Temperature-controlled logistics Chemicals requiring controlled temperatures Food and Agricultural Storage The large internal capacity makes the container particularly suitable for businesses requiring substantial refrigerated storage. Fresh produce, dairy products, meat, seafood, frozen foods, beverages, flowers, and agricultural products can be stored under controlled temperature conditions appropriate to the product. Fresh-air ventilation and humidity-management features can be used where supported by the refrigeration system and the requirements of the stored cargo. Pharmaceutical and Temperature-Sensitive Products The controlled refrigeration environment can also be used for certain pharmaceutical, laboratory, and other temperature-sensitive products where the required operating range is supported by the selected refrigeration system. Digital temperature monitoring and data-logging capabilities available on many refrigeration models can assist with monitoring storage conditions. Specific pharmaceutical or vaccine storage requirements should always be matched to the refrigeration system, operating temperature, and product manufacturer's storage specifications. Security The refrigerated container features heavy-duty cargo doors, secure door handles, locking bars, and durable seals to help protect stored products from unauthorised access and external exposure. An internal emergency safety release provides an additional safety feature for personnel inside the refrigerated compartment. Additional external security options can also be installed where required. Durability and Weather Resistance The Corten steel exterior is designed to provide corrosion resistance and durability in demanding environments. High-density polyurethane insulation helps protect the refrigerated interior from external temperature fluctuations, while insulated doors and heavy-duty seals help minimise air and temperature loss. The weather-resistant construction makes the container suitable for outdoor commercial, agricultural, industrial, and logistics applications when installed and operated according to the refrigeration system requirements. Benefits Large 12.19 meter (40 ft) refrigerated storage capacity Approximately 67–68 m³ internal capacity Adjustable temperature from -30°C to +30°C Suitable for chilled and frozen cargo High-density polyurethane insulation Strong Corten steel construction Food-grade interior surfaces Efficient refrigerated air circulation Aluminium or marine-grade refrigerated flooring Digital temperature control Automatic defrost Fresh-air ventilation control Temperature monitoring Suitable for commercial cold storage Suitable for refrigerated transportation Genset-compatible configurations available Secure lockable cargo doors Weather-resistant construction Easy to transport and relocate Suitable for a wide range of industries Optional Features and Accessories Depending on the refrigeration configuration and application, additional options may include: High-security container lockbox High-security padlocks Interior LED lighting Temperature monitoring systems Data logging systems Additional cargo securing points Shelving systems Storage racking Additional ventilation controls Humidity-management options Genset solutions Custom exterior paint colours Electrical modifications Delivery Across South Africa 12 meter (40 ft) refrigerated containers can be delivered to locations throughout South Africa, with delivery options also available to selected destinations across Southern Africa. Delivery requirements depend on the destination, road access, unloading arrangements, electrical requirements, and final placement location.
At KNF Container Depot, all products are inspected before delivery or collection.
Returns are only accepted for products that are faulty or significantly different from the agreed specifications. Customers must notify us within 30 days of receiving the product.
Custom-built or modified containers and trailers are non-returnable, unless they are defective due to our workmanship.
Approved returns must be in their original condition. Return transport costs may apply where the issue is not due to KNF Container Depot.
For returns or assistance, please contact us at sales@knfcontainerdepot.co.za