Logistical considerations and limitations of refrigerated containers used in the pome and stone fruit export markets

The internal dimensions of the 40’ high cube containers differ between different shipping companies. In addition, most containers used by the fruit industry are leased for one-way shipping from third party operators. It is, therefore, generally not known what model or type of high cube container will arrive for loading. In addition, each refrigerated container also has a red line, which specifies the maximum allowable pallet stack height. These red lines also vary depending on the container model.

Furthermore, the mechanical specification of the refrigeration units in each container has also developed and adapted over time and can differ substantially between manufacturers.

This research performed a detailed survey of high cube refrigerated containers, to identify the usage distributions applicable to the SA fruit export markets.

While a general overview of refrigerated container specification has already been compiled. This study investigated container usage at a much greater level of detail. Specifically, the main high cube refrigeration containers factors that were investigated are the (1) types, (2) models,

(3) internal dimensions and (4) red line heights in use.

In addition, this study also investigated the actual refrigeration unit performance capabilities. A secondary objective was to determine if all refrigeration units are made equal and if there is any trend in performance or if any leaps in technology can be expected

• The internal dimensions of the 40-foot high cube refrigerated containers do vary, but not by substantial amounts.
• There is a trend towards standardization, not only on the outside, but also on the inside dimensions and specifications of the reefers.
• There is a trend towards standardisation of the various refrigerating systems used.
• Improved technology allows for the reefer age to be extended up to 15 years.
• Standardisation is hampered by the various ages of current reefers circulating in the shipping industry and the way they were Once the older reefers are out of circulation, uniformity can be achieved.

The internal dimensions of different 40-foot high cube refrigerated containers do vary, but not by substantial amounts as they only differ by a few millimetres.

The research determined that in terms of the type of refrigerated unit model used, Carrier is the preferred model due to its reputation of being reliable.

The containers can be used for up to 20 years, if they are well-maintained, continue to meet the safety requirements and operate in good working conditions. The average age of a 40-foot high cube refrigerated container was identified as approximately 10 to 15 years, if they meet all the requirements and specifications. There are no significant changes expected in the design of the container in the near future.

It is recommended that companies start sharing relevant information of the various containers in the market. Companies in SA often focus on improvements that will be beneficial to themselves in the short term rather than improvements that could benefit the industry as a whole in the long term. Companies should consider working more closely in the future to achieve uniformity in terms of the internal dimensions of refrigerated containers