For temperature-sensitive cargo, refrigerated container transport plays a vital role in Canada’s logistics network. Many industries rely on professional cold chain solutions to preserve product quality from origin to destination. Metropolitan Logistics ensures consistent temperature control and full compliance with cold chain standards. As a result, perishable goods, pharmaceuticals, and other sensitive products remain safe during every stage of transportation.
What Is Refrigerated Container Transport?
Refrigerated or “reefer” containers use built-in cooling systems that maintain stable internal conditions throughout the journey. These containers operate efficiently across multiple transport modes, including truck, rail, and ocean freight. Unlike standard containers, they can sustain precise temperatures between -25°C and +25°C.
Common Applications
- Food and Beverage: Meat, dairy, seafood, and fresh produce.
- Pharmaceuticals: Vaccines, medicine, and laboratory materials.
- Industrial Goods: Temperature-sensitive chemicals and adhesives.
- Agriculture: Flowers, plants, and other biological shipments.
Moreover, refrigerated containers enable businesses to ship products across long distances while ensuring freshness and regulatory compliance.
Refrigerated Transport Containers
Reefer containers come in several configurations to meet diverse logistics needs. They can connect to electric power or operate independently using diesel generators. Furthermore, all units are equipped with GPS tracking and real-time temperature monitoring, which allows shippers to verify cargo integrity throughout transit.
Container Types
- 20-foot Reefer Container: Compact and efficient for smaller loads or regional deliveries.
- 40-foot High Cube Reefer: Doubles capacity for international or interprovincial freight.
- Multi-Temperature Containers: Provide separate cooling zones for mixed cargo types.
In addition, insulated construction and automated airflow systems maintain uniform temperature distribution, reducing spoilage risk.
Refrigerated Shipping Container Sizes
| Container Type | Internal Volume | Temperature Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20′ Reefer | ~28 m³ | -25°C to +25°C | Small shipments and local deliveries |
| 40′ Reefer | ~58 m³ | -25°C to +25°C | Large regional or export loads |
| 40′ High Cube Reefer | ~67 m³ | -25°C to +25°C | High-volume international cargo |
This variety helps clients select the ideal container based on cargo size, route, and budget.
Refrigerated Container Shipping Cost
The refrigerated container shipping cost depends on several factors, such as distance, duration, and product type. Generally, costs range between $900 and $4,000 depending on service type and coverage area.
| Route Type | Estimated Cost | Typical Transit Time |
|---|---|---|
| Local or short-haul | $900 – $1,500 | 1–3 days |
| Interprovincial | $1,500 – $3,000 | 3–7 days |
| Cross-border (Canada–U.S.) | $2,000 – $4,000 | 5–10 days |
Additionally, carriers may include extra charges for standby power, container storage, or extended cooling periods. Therefore, understanding all pricing components ensures accurate budgeting.
Advantages of Reefer Containers
Refrigerated containers offer multiple advantages for shippers seeking reliable cold chain solutions:
- Consistent Temperature Control: Ensures the product remains in optimal condition.
- Continuous Monitoring: Provides visibility through temperature and location tracking.
- Flexible Transport Options: Works seamlessly with truck, rail, and sea freight.
- Hygienic and Safe: Meets international food and pharma transport standards.
- Reduced Waste: Minimizes spoilage and product loss during long-distance shipping.
Moreover, these systems help businesses meet sustainability goals by reducing waste and improving energy efficiency.
Industry Applications
Food and Beverage
Canadian exporters rely on refrigerated transport containers to deliver products to domestic markets and international buyers. For example, seafood from Halifax and fruits from British Columbia travel under controlled conditions to the U.S. and overseas destinations.
Pharmaceutical and Healthcare
The healthcare sector demands precision. Metropolitan Logistics provides validated cold chain routes compliant with Health Canada and global GDP standards. As a result, critical medical supplies arrive safely and on time.
Chemicals and Industrial Products
Temperature fluctuations can damage industrial materials. Reefer containers stabilize conditions and protect goods such as coatings, adhesives, and lab reagents.
Why Choose Metropolitan Logistics
- Nationwide coverage across all major Canadian ports and terminals.
- Integrated intermodal connections for truck, rail, and ocean freight.
- 24/7 cold chain monitoring for temperature accuracy.
- Dedicated customs and compliance support for international cargo.
Furthermore, our logistics specialists customize every solution to fit each client’s schedule and product needs.
Request a Quote to book your refrigerated container transport today.
📞 Phone: +1 (365) 829 5000
✉️ Email: service@metropolitanlogistics.ca
