Refrigerated containers, or "reefers", as they are regularly known, are of particular interest to shipping companies and similar organizations, because they permit relatively high freight rates and margins that are not possible with dry containers. Thus, almost all container shipping companies are attempting to expand their reefer business. The following sections are intended to give a comprehensive overview of the transportation of chilled products in containers. It will outline developments in the field of refrigerated containers, both in terms of quantities and technical aspects. In addition, particular aspects of reefer transport, including the use of "controlled atmosphere", remote container monitoring systems and the transportation of reefers below deck, are described.

The interpretation of temperature records and the technical possibilities for a change of temperature in a refrigerated container are particularly significant in the event of damage. This topic is therefore discussed in detail.