Reefer containers or refrigerated contains are used in freight forwarding for transporting goods that need temperature control (ex- fruits, meat, pharmaceuticals). Offshore reefer containers, as the name implies, are those used for shipping products to offshore oil and gas rigs.
They are built to withstand harsh weather conditions that are common on sea shipping routes.
Modern DNV 2.7-1 certified offshore reefer containers offered by MGS Icestorm come with automated temperature and ventilation control systems along with real-time monitoring and tracking facilities. These can provide temperature adjustments between -35 °C and +15 °C degrees.
Read: What is an offshore reefer container?
Benefits of offshore reefer containers
The demand for reefer containers has seen a huge surge in the past decade, primarily due to the following advantages that they offer:
- Since offshore reefer containers are automated refrigerated units, they do not need cold storage facilities when they arrive at their destination.
- They are available in multiple dimensions and sizes and can also be customised to your needs.
- They can be automated to meet different temperature and ventilation needs.
- They are very durable and can sustain extremely harsh environmental conditions prevalent in sea routes.
- They are available as rented units which means you do not have to manage the funds to purchase one. Additionally, these are reusable units and can be used repeatedly.
- Reefer containers come with a tracking system which eventually helps save operational costs.
Renting an offshore reefer container
Renting is often a more viable solution for transporters when it comes to budget. However, it is important to keep a check on the following factors before you hire an offshore reefer unit:
- What are the dimensions of the container?
- Where can you ship your offshore reefer container?
- Does it come with the requisite certifications?
- Are modifications to the reefer container possible?
- Is the reefer container renting company reputable?
- Is it a new reefer container or a pre-used unit?
- What is the minimum rental period?
Read our article on “Key considerations in renting offshore reefer containers” for more information.
Should you buy or rent offshore Reefers?
You should seriously consider renting an offshore shipping container if you have short-term operation in the offshore renewable energy, catering, or oil and gas industries.
Offshore shipping containers can withstand the harsh weather conditions encountered during open sea transit and deployment in hostile settings like oil rigs and offshore wind farms.
The manufacturing process is responsible for most of its tenacity.
These units are made of robust materials like Corten steel or wrought alloy aluminium and are designed to endure a very low minimum temperature, making them both corrosion resistant and durable.
This, along with stringent testing and stringent criteria, makes them the logical choice for anyone wishing to move freight securely over great distances.
Because of their robustness and stability, offshore containers may also be utilised as on-site storage and as additional space for staff.
Refrigerated DNV containers are also ideal for carrying and storing chilled or frozen food to offshore locations.
DNV offshore containers have grown more popular in a variety of sectors as a result of these evident advantages.
If you’re thinking of hiring your own, there are a few things to think about before signing the lease.
What is the cost of hiring an offshore DNV container?
Renting a DNV container is frequently less expensive than buying one altogether.
This is especially true if your needs are only temporary.
The total cost, as well as the number of containers and the unit type, are all affected by how long you want to rent a shipping container.
A single 20ft DNV Reefer Container may cost tens of thousands of pounds, not to include the cost of depot storage while it’s not in use.
Renting becomes a far more realistic option as a result.
What dimensions do DNV containers come in?
An offshore shipping container’s normal dimensions are generally 10 or 20 feet.
For more information, read “Offshore Reefer Container Dimensions & Specifications”
What certifications do DNV containers need?
DNV containers are significantly more complicated than ISO containers due to their applications.
To begin, DNV containers must be certified for usage offshore.
Containers must go through a standardised design review, inspection, and testing process in order for this to happen.
These inspections will follow the DNV 2.7-1 standard.
These rules are in place to protect the people who work around these containers.
As a result, they are required for any DNV container. Every year, all DNV containers must be recertified.
Read: Difference between Offshore Reefer Container and other common ISO Shipping Containers
Can I make changes to the DNV container I rented?
DNV containers may be tailored to practically any requirement.
DNV shipping containers have a wide range of applications.
Lighting, power outlets geared to any voltage specification and shelving units may all be added to your DNV container if needed.
As a result, they’re ideal for workplaces and even workshops, as the units may be configured in any way.
Desks, workbenches, floors, and insulation may all be fitted, enabling you to maximise the space within the container while also incorporating all necessary technologies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have discussed what is the cost of hiring an offshore DNV as well as what dimensions do DNV containers come in.
We also discussed what certifications do DNV containers need and whether you are able to make changes to the DNV you rented.
Business Director
A graduate (Business) from KDU, Jason Tan, is the current Business Director (Sales) for MGS Icestorm and has been associated with the company for the past 10 years.
With over 13 years in the shipping industry, he has had a significant contribution to Malaysia’s oil and gas industry in the engine and boat supply sector.
His expertise includes managing offshore catering business, offshore reefer containers, AI technology, offshore gas tanks, A60 pressurized cabins, etc. His contributions have helped establish MGS, in partnership (joint venture) with Thermo King and Honeywell to produce state of art Offshore Reefer Container products.