A cold storage container has a wide range of temperatures, and each of them is used for a different variety of goods.
Different goods require different cold storage temperatures, depending on the type of product, its sensitivity to temperature, and regulatory requirements. For example, ice cream needs deep cold storage with a temperature range of 13°F to -0.4°F. Meanwhile, fruits and vegetables only need cold storage with a temperature range of 41°F to 46,4°F.
To solve this problem, there is a dual-zone cold storage container, a type of refrigerated container (reefer container) divided into two separate compartments, each of which can be set at a different temperature independently.
This makes it a highly flexible and efficient solution for transporting or storing various types of goods with different temperature requirements within the same unit. You can designate one zone for frozen products (e.g., meat) and another zone for chilled products (e.g., fruit or dairy).
To know more about the dual zone cold storage container, read this article!
Contents
Benefits of Using a Dual Zone Cold Storage Container
1. Temperature Flexibility
Dual zone containers allow for two separate temperature zones within the same unit. Ideal for businesses handling both perishable and frozen products.
This means you can store:
- Frozen goods in one zone (Temperature: -4°F)
- Chilled or ambient goods in the other (Temperature: 35.6°F to 46.4°F)
Having two zones allows for better segregation and organization of products. This means that you can separate products by shelf life, minimize spoilage, and optimize stock rotation.
2. Space & Cost Efficiency
Instead of renting or purchasing two separate units, a dual-zone container consolidates your storage needs. This requires lower operational costs, reduced physical footprint, and fewer utility connections.
3. Versatile Applications
These containers are perfect for a variety of industries, including food, beverage, pharmaceuticals, floral distribution, events, and catering.
You can store different product types that require separate temperatures without cross-contamination or compromising quality.
4. Compliance with Safety Standards
In the pharma sector, dual-zone cold storage is important. It helps businesses keep high-risk items at precise temperatures and meets HACCP, FDA, or other regulatory standards.
5. Enhanced Mobility
Many dual zone units are modular and mobile. This makes them ideal for temporary cold storage during events or on-site use in remote areas or construction sites.
6. Energy Efficiency
Modern dual zone containers use advanced insulation and refrigeration technologies, often allowing independent temperature control and reducing energy usage compared to running two separate containers.
Dual Zone Container Recommendations from Tradecorp
20′ Reefer – Dual Zone – Thermoking T880 Pro
The 20′ Reefer Container with Dual Zone is designed to maintain controlled temperatures, making it ideal for shipping perishable goods like food, pharmaceuticals, or chemicals.
It has two separate temperature zones that allow the container to store and transport goods that require different temperature settings simultaneously. For Example, you can set a cold temperature for frozen goods in one zone and set a higher temperature for fresh products.
With the Thermo King T880 Pro Refrigerator, the temperature-sensitive goods storing and shipping process will be more efficient, as it is known for its efficiency, durability, and reliability in maintaining precise temperature control in varying conditions. Typically, the T880 Pro can handle a temperature range from -22°F to 86°F, suitable for various types of perishable cargo.
20′ RF Dual Zone – Carrier ThinLine Container
Tradecorp’s 20’ RF Dual Zone (Carrier ThinLINE) Container is an industry-leading solution to help business owners freeze and store temperature-sensitive products and prevent unwanted damage from improper cargo handling.
Carrier’s ThinLINE reefer machine is the main feature of this 20’ RF Dual Zone Container, which sets the industry standard for cargo refrigeration solutions. Equipped with highly efficient evaporator fan motors and vaneaxial fans, the machine can maximize its cooling capacity and save you from excessive electricity consumption.
Apart from the reefer machine, other features are also available in this container. These features consist of the previously mentioned butcher door, rubber-sealed doors, corner castings, forklift pockets, and lashing rings to make the container suitable for meeting various business needs.
Super freezer Dual Zone
Shipping temperature-sensitive products worldwide is now possible with our Dual Zone Super Freezer which has 2 separate temperature zones. With this, you can use one compartment that cools to -76°F and the other to around 41°F.
Given that, this container effectively maintains an extremely low temperature of the cargo inside. This container also comes with a T-bar floor to ensure cold air reaches below your shipment and across it, resulting in a steady temperature throughout the container.
Our Super Freezer Dual Zone is generally used to move/store cargo such as tuna and other high-grade seafood and meats. You can rest assured that the freshness of the items will remain even after the container is exposed to heat during transport. On top of that, all of our new containers meet the ISO standards. Thus, it has a valid CSC plate and is ready to cover your international shipping needs.
How to Care for Your Container
Caring for your dual-zone cold storage container is essential to ensure its efficiency, longevity, and food/product safety. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly maintain and care for your unit:
1. Regular Cleaning
The regular cleaning includes the interior and exterior of a dual-zone cold storage container. The interior cleaning is done weekly, or more often if spills occur.
You can use food-safe cleaning agents and warm water on the walls, floors, shelves, doors, and drain holes. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that may damage insulation or coatings.
For the exterior cleaning, keep the outer shell clean from dust, dirt, and debris to maintain airflow and avoid rust or corrosion.
2. Schedule Professional Servicing
At least once or twice a year, have a technician check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical systems, and verify the thermostat.
3. Monitor Temperatures
Use digital temperature loggers or built-in monitoring systems daily to ensure each zone is within safe operating range. Also, install alarms for temperature fluctuations, especially for critical goods like vaccines and seafood.
4. Power & Electrical Checks
Inspect power cords and connections for wear or damage and ensure backup power or generator readiness in case of outages. Then, install surge protection to prevent damage to refrigeration components.
5. Defrosting Procedures
Some dual-zone cold storage models are auto-defrosting, and others need manual defrosting. For this, you need to turn off the unit, transfer contents, and allow natural thawing when frost buildup exceeds ¼ inch.
6. Keep a Maintenance Log
Track cleaning schedules, repairs, temperature readings, and technician service visits. This will help in preventive maintenance and warranty claims.
Conclusion
Using a dual-zone cold storage container offers a range of benefits for businesses that require reliable and flexible temperature-controlled environments.
High-quality refrigerated shipping container rental is available at Tradecorp. Tradecorp is a reliable container sales, purchase, rental, and modification service company. Tradecorp provides modification and custom container services to residences by adding windows, doors, walls, and roof insulation.
Our experienced staff is ready to help you arrange the shipping of your container to your requested location. Fill out our quote form to buy or rent from us!