When you upgrade to a refrigerated unit from Steel Works Shipping Containers, the most common question we hear is: “How much will this add to my monthly utility bill?” While every operation is unique, 2026 energy data allows us to project these costs with surprising accuracy.
Whether you are deep-freezing seafood in Seattle or chilling pharmaceuticals in New Jersey, the cost of running your reefer is a manageable operational expense—especially when compared to the high fees of third-party cold storage. Below is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay across our primary delivery zones.
The Math Behind the Machine
Initially, we have to look at the “burn rate” of a standard 40ft High Cube reefer. On average, these units consume between 3 kWh and 7 kWh per hour.
- Chilled Mode (above -10°C): The unit works harder to precisely modulate temperature, typically averaging 6–7 kWh.
- Frozen Mode (below -10°C): Once the cargo is “pulled down” to temperature, the unit cycles on and off, often dropping consumption to 3–4 kWh.
Furthermore, your local commercial electricity rate is the biggest variable. In 2026, the U.S. average commercial rate sits at approximately 14.12¢ per kWh, but this fluctuates wildly by state.
Monthly Cost Projections by Region (2026 Rates)
Based on a standard 720-hour month (continuous run-time), here is how your bill might look with a unit from Steel Works Shipping Containers:
| City / State | Avg. Commercial Rate (¢/kWh) | Monthly Cost (Chilled @ 6.5 kWh) | Monthly Cost (Frozen @ 4 kWh) |
| Houston, TX | ~9.12¢ | $426 | $262 |
| Atlanta, GA | ~11.44¢ | $535 | $329 |
| Chicago, IL | ~14.01¢ | $655 | $403 |
| Newark, NJ | ~18.78¢ | $878 | $540 |
| Los Angeles, CA | ~29.46¢ | $1,378 | $848 |
Note: Estimates are based on average 2026 commercial grid rates and may vary by provider.
Three Factors That Lower Your Bill
Instead of just accepting the grid price, you can actively reduce your reefer’s power draw. At Steel Works Shipping Containers, we recommend these three strategies:
- The “High Cube” Airflow Advantage: Because our 40ft High Cube units allow for better air circulation above the cargo, the motor doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain a uniform temperature. Consequently, the unit reaches its “set point” faster.
- Strategic Loading: Never block the “Red Line” or the T-bar flooring. Proper airflow reduces the duty cycle of the compressor, potentially saving you 10-15% on power.
- The Shade Factor: If you are located in a high-heat zone like San Antonio, Texas or Orlando, Florida, placing your unit under a lean-to or in a shaded area prevents the sun from “baking” the steel exterior, lowering the thermal load on the refrigeration engine.
Is it Worth It?
Initially, a $500 monthly power bill might seem high. However, if you compare this to renting 20+ pallets of space at a commercial cold storage facility—which can cost upwards of $2,000 per month—the 40ft reefer pays for itself in just a few months.
Steel Works Shipping Containers provides the hardware you need to take control of your cold chain. From Vancouver to Miami, we deliver the efficiency your business deserves.
