Reefer Cold Storage (Pty) Ltd — Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

Reefer Cold Storage is a family‑owned, Durban-based cold storage facility which has operated since 1993. Described as a premier, independently owned operation in KwaZulu-Natal, the site combines extensive cold storage capacity with a structured service approach designed to safeguard products from receipt through to dispatch. The business highlights its longevity, claiming 29 years in operation and a facility that can accommodate substantial volumes across multiple temperature ranges.

The site operates as a multi‑temperature warehouse, offering frozen storage from five degrees below zero to minus thirty‑five degrees, as well as chilled storage at 2–5 degrees Celsius and ambient storage for certain products. This versatility enables the handling of frozen goods for both imports and exports, along with chilled and ambient items and citrus. A notable feature is the inclusion of a bonded storage capability, allowing customers to store products until duties are paid and release occurs. The facility also emphasises suitability for a range of logistics needs, including import/export workflows.

Key physical attributes underpinning Reefer’s service capability include a large level site of around 25,000 square metres, 15,000 pallet positions, 27 loading bays, and access to multiple plug‑in points for containerised cargo. The operation emphasises robust security and monitoring, with state‑of‑the‑art CCTV throughout the facility, access control, and 24‑hour security to complement back‑up electrical and mechanical systems.

Operational reliability is supported by a dedicated on‑site team and infrastructure: back‑up generators, standby compressors and condensers, stand‑by devices, and temperature monitoring systems ensure continuity even in power or equipment interruptions. The business also highlights its yard facilities, including ample space for in‑yard handling and overnight parking, designed to optimise turnarounds for vehicles entering and leaving the facility.

From a process perspective, Reefer places emphasis on careful handling, transparent receipt and dispatch documentation, and proactive yard management. A dedicated account manager assigns a single point of contact for customers, while a yard controller oversees on‑arrival and movement of vehicles to speed up loading and unloading. The warehouse management system provides full traceability from receipt to dispatch, and receipts and dispatch notes are supplied to customers to keep them informed of stock condition and movements. This level of communication is presented as part of the firm’s commitment to the “Gold Standard” of service, ensuring visibility and accountability at every step.

Customer experience at Reefer is further enhanced by a comprehensive service offering that includes customised storage solutions, labelling, sorting, and value‑added services. The company notes its capability to offer bespoke services tailored to client needs and mentions membership in the Global Cold Chain Alliance. Quality assurance is reinforced by Woolworths Food Safety and Quality approvals, underscoring adherence to demanding retail standards. The facility also provides practical conveniences such as a plug‑in service for overnight container refrigeration and assistance with transport arrangements or management, depending on client requirements.

In terms of compliance and governance, Reefer maintains an emphasis on health and safety, with ongoing staff training and a full‑time maintenance team on site. The company references its adherence to regulatory processes through regular vet inspections and coordination with relevant authorities (such as DALRRD, Port Health and NRCS) to facilitate efficient clearance and vet testing when needed. The bonded nature of the store and experience in handling imports and exports contribute to a comprehensive service proposition for a broad range of customers.

The customer experience is reflected in mixed but generally positive feedback from visitors. Review highlights point to fast loading and unloading, safe handling practices, friendly staff, and efficient operations in some instances. Other comments note security and orderly handling as strengths, while a minority of reviewers report slower responsiveness or mixed experiences with specific interactions. The majority of feedback, however, references professional, efficient, and well‑organised operations, with appreciation voiced for staff and the organised nature of the site.

Typical projects at Reefer include storage and staging for frozen and chilled goods, bonded storage for duty‑pending items, and support for import/export shipments. The facility’s capabilities are aligned with industries that require temperature‑controlled storage and reliable logistics support, including food, citrus, and retail supply chains. Customers can expect a streamlined intake and dispatch process, traceability through a central system, and access to a broad network of transport partners or in‑house logistics support, subject to client arrangements.

Practical tips for customers

• Confirm temperature requirements (frozen, chilled, or ambient) and ensure the product is documented for the correct bay allocation.
• Leverage the dedicated account manager as the single point of contact for communications and updates.
• Ask about container plug‑in options for overnight power, particularly for long stays or bulk shipments.
• Clarify bonded storage needs and release procedures if duties payment and dispatch are anticipated.
• Provide clear vet inspection timelines if relevant to the shipment to avoid delays; note the standard inspection cadence for containers arriving by 2pm.

Operating hours are listed as Monday to Friday from 07:30 to 16:15 and Saturday from 07:30 to 11:30, with substantial yard space enabling flexible arrivals and temporary container waiting outside office hours. The Durban address places Reefer within the Springfield Park area, serving the KwaZulu-Natal region and surrounding logistics corridors.