Refrigerated Body Containers: What Makes Them Different from Standard Reefer Containers?
The cold chain industry uses different types of refrigerated containers to transport and store temperature-sensitive products. Among these, refrigerated body containers are becoming increasingly popular due to their customizable design, light weight, and cost efficiency.
But many businesses still confuse refrigerated body containers with standard reefer containers.
While both maintain temperature, their structure, purpose, and performance are very different.
This guide explains the major differences so you can choose the right solution for your business.
What Is a Refrigerated Body Container?
A refrigerated body container is a custom-built insulated box designed specifically for mounting onto trucks, pickups, Bolero, Tata Ace, Eicher, or other commercial vehicles.
It typically includes:
- PUF insulated panels (60mm–100mm)
- Lightweight FRP/Aluminum interior
- MS/Aluminum body frame
- Refrigeration unit (Thermo King / Carrier)
- Food-grade finishing
- Custom door & flooring options
Unlike a standard reefer shipping container, this unit is manufactured from scratch to fit different truck sizes.
What Is a Standard Reefer Container?
A standard reefer container is a pre-built ISO container (20 ft or 40 ft) used mainly for sea freight, rail transport, or stationary cold storage.
It has:
- Factory-fitted refrigeration
- ISO-compliant steel body
- Very heavy weight
- Multi-layer insulation
- Defined dimensions
These containers are not built for mounting directly on trucks—unless converted, which can be costly.
❄ Key Differences: Refrigerated Body Containers vs. Standard Reefer Containers
1. Weight & Flexibility
Refrigerated Body Container
- Much lighter
- Better mileage
- Designed for regional or city distribution
- Customizable size (4 ft to 24 ft)
Standard Reefer Container
- Very heavy (2–3X heavier)
- Consumes more fuel
- Fixed ISO size
- Not ideal for city deliveries
2. Purpose & Use Case
Refrigerated Body Container
Best for:
✔ Local delivery
✔ Mid-distance transport
✔ Dairy, pharma, frozen food, vegetables
✔ E-commerce grocery
✔ Temperature-controlled city logistics
Standard Reefer Container
Best for:
✔ Export / import shipments
✔ Long-term storage
✔ Warehouse cold rooms
✔ Rail or ship transport
3. Customization Options
Refrigerated Body Container
Highly customizable:
- Side doors
- Dual temperature zones
- Shelving
- Flooring type
- Branding & exterior design
- Size & insulation thickness
Standard Reefer Container
Very limited modification options due to ISO steel design.
4. Cost Comparison
Refrigerated Body Container
More affordable
Price varies by truck size & insulation:
Standard Reefer Container
Higher cost due to heavy build:
(Used ones are cheaper but may require repairs)
5. Body Structure & Durability
Refrigerated Body Container
- Lightweight body
- FRP or Aluminum interior
- Best for daily delivery operations
- Withstands Indian road conditions well
Standard Reefer Container
- Extremely strong steel structure
- Best for shipping, harsh weather, long storage
❄ Advantages of Refrigerated Body Containers
- Better fuel efficiency
- Easy handling & movement
- Lower maintenance
- Temperature accuracy from -25°C to +15°C
- Ideal for perishable goods
- Can be mounted on any commercial vehicle
- Perfect for small & medium logistics businesses
Which One Should Your Business Choose?
Choose a Refrigerated Body Container if you need:
- Daily city deliveries
- Lightweight, fuel-efficient design
- Custom size
- Flexible internal layout
- Branding and customization
- Affordable cooling container solutions
Choose a Standard Reefer Container if you need:
- Heavy-duty cold storage
- Export/import logistics
- Long-term on-site storage
- ISO-certified equipment
FAQs
1. Can a refrigerated body container maintain frozen temperatures?
Yes, with 80mm–100mm PUF insulation and a suitable cooling unit, it can maintain -18°C to -25°C.
2. Which is better for truck mounting?
A refrigerated body container is specially built for vehicles—lighter, safer, and efficient.
3. How long does a refrigerated body container last?
Typically 8–12 years, depending on body material and maintenance.
4. Is customization possible?
Yes—you can modify size, insulation, flooring, compartments, and branding.
Call to Action
Looking for Refrigerated Body Containers or Custom Reefer Units?
DSL Reefer Container manufactures high-quality refrigerated bodies for all truck sizes.
👉 Visit: https://dslreefercontainers.com/
👉 Custom sizes, best pricing, and premium cooling units available.