Refrigerated containers are used for goods which need to be transported at a constant temperature above or below freezing point. These goods are divided into chilled goods and frozen goods, depending on the specified transport temperature. They principally include fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy products, such as butter and cheese.

High-cube integral units are used in particular for voluminous and light goods (e.g. fruit, flowers).

Nowadays, goods requiring refrigeration are mostly transported in integral units, which have a markedly higher market share than porthole containers.

Chilled meat is sometimes also transported hanging, for which purpose the ceilings of refrigerated containers are equipped with special hook rails.