Efficient container loading is critical for optimizing freight costs and minimizing fruit bruising during transit. This guide provides importers with exact specifications for loading Gannan navel oranges into reefer containers.
Container Capacity Specifications
| Specification | 20ft Reefer | 40ft Reefer |
|---|---|---|
| Internal length | 5.45 m | 11.58 m |
| Internal width | 2.29 m | 2.29 m |
| Internal height | 2.27 m | 2.27 m |
| Carton capacity (15kg) | ~1,200 cartons | ~2,500 cartons |
| Net fruit weight | ~18 tons | ~26 tons |
| Pallet positions | 10 Euro pallets | 22 Euro pallets |
| Temperature setpoint | 2–3°C | 2–3°C |
Standard Carton Dimensions
Gannan navel oranges are typically packed in 15 kg export cartons:
- Carton size: 50cm × 30cm × 25cm (approximate)
- Count options: 48, 56, 64, or 72 pieces per carton
- Pallet configuration: 8 layers × 15 cartons per layer = 120 cartons per pallet
- Stack height: Maximum 6 pallets high in 40ft container
Loading Configuration Tips
- Air circulation: Leave 10–15 cm gap between pallet top and container ceiling
- Center aisle: Maintain 15–20 cm center aisle for cold air distribution
- Floor channels: Ensure T-bar floor channels are clear — do not place cartons directly on floor
- Temperature probes: Place 3 probes in fruit pulp — front, middle, and rear of container
- Pre-cooling: Fruit must be pre-cooled to 4–6°C before loading
Cost Optimization
A 40ft reefer container costs approximately 60–70% more than a 20ft but carries 108% more product, making it significantly more cost-effective per ton. For first-time importers, we recommend starting with a 20ft container (MOQ: 1 × 20ft).