How Much Does It Cost to Build a 20,000 m³ Large-Scale Cold Storage Distribution Center?

Many large chain enterprises—such as snack brands, food manufacturers, supermarkets, delivery platforms, and restaurant groups—operate their own central distribution cold storage centers across different cities. These warehouses help reduce logistics costs, stabilize supply, and ensure product freshness.

1. What Is Included in a 20,000 m³ Cold Storage Facility?

A 20,000 m³ warehouse is considered a large-scale cold storage center.
Assuming a ceiling height of 5 meters, the building footprint is around 4,000 m².

Typical technical configuration includes:

• B1-grade polyurethane insulation panels for energy-efficient and stable temperature control
• Single refrigeration units for each room instead of a centralized parallel unit system
  • Slightly higher upfront cost
  • But prevents full-system shutdown risks
  • Ensures product safety and reduces financial losses
• Independent control system for each cold room for easier management and maintenance

This configuration is commonly used for food distribution centers handling frozen meat, seafood, dairy, prepared food, and e-commerce goods.

2. How Much Does a 20,000 m³ Cold Storage Facility Cost?

Based on recent project data:

Total Estimated Investment

Approximately USD 450,000 – 600,000, depending on layout, temperature zones, and equipment brand.

Storage Capacity

At standard stacking density, a 20,000 m³ cold storage can hold:
3,000 – 4,000 tons of frozen food
(depending on packaging and internal racking system)

Energy Consumption (Average)

Cold room energy use typically ranges:
38–52 kWh per ton per day
(Lower energy consumption when using inverter systems and well-insulated panels.)

3. What Problems Does This Cold Storage Solve for Enterprises?

A large-scale distribution cold warehouse provides:

✔ Lower logistics costs

Centralized storage reduces long-distance procurement and improves regional distribution.

✔ Stable temperature for high-value products

Independent units prevent total system failure and reduce spoilage risk.

✔ Higher inventory turnover

Ensures continuous supply to chain stores, especially during peak sales seasons.

✔ Long-term operational reliability

B1-grade PU insulation + single refrigeration units = lower maintenance costs.

4. Investment & ROI Example

A client in Malaysia built a 22,000 m³ food distribution cold storage center for nationwide supply.

• Investment: ~USD 580,000
• Storage Capacity: 3,000+ tons of frozen & chilled food
• Energy Consumption: 40–55 kWh per ton per day
• Payback Period: Within 2.5 years, due to reduced logistics costs and improved supply efficiency