China cold storage solution provider
Converting an existing industrial facility into a cold storage warehouse is a cost-effective and practical solution for many businesses. Instead of building a new structure from scratch, repurposing an existing factory allows you to maximize space utilization, reduce construction costs, and shorten the project timeline.
However, the total conversion cost per square meter can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the facility, temperature requirements, and insulation materials used.
1. Cost by Cold Storage Size
The scale of renovation is one of the most critical factors influencing cost. Generally, the larger the cold room area, the lower the unit cost per square meter due to economies of scale — though the overall investment still increases with size.
Here’s an overview based on typical cold storage projects in China (converted to USD for reference):
| Cold Storage Area | Estimated Cost (RMB/㎡) | Approx. Cost (USD/㎡) | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500 ㎡ | ¥800–1100 | $110–150 | Small-scale renovation |
| 1,000 ㎡ | ¥900–1100 | $125–150 | Medium cold storage |
| 3,000 ㎡ | ¥900–1050 | $125–145 | Standard mid-size project |
| 5,000 ㎡ | ¥900–1000 | $125–140 | Large-scale industrial cold room |
| 10,000 ㎡ | ¥850–1000 | $120–140 | High-volume cold storage conversion |
💡 Note: The above prices are reference estimates based on Chinese market data. Actual costs may vary depending on the project’s location, design specifications, and refrigeration system selection.
2. Key Factors That Affect Cold Storage Conversion Costs
Several variables can significantly influence the total renovation cost:
- Insulation materials: Polyurethane (PU) sandwich panels are the most commonly used due to their excellent thermal performance and durability.
- Refrigeration system: The choice between scroll, screw, or parallel compressor systems impacts both efficiency and price.
- Temperature requirements: Lower operating temperatures (e.g., -18°C for frozen meat) require more robust insulation and higher energy consumption, increasing the overall cost.
- Layout and civil modifications: Factory conversion projects often require wall reinforcement, floor insulation, and sealing work to meet temperature and hygiene standards.
Conclusion
Converting an industrial plant into a cold storage warehouse is an excellent investment for businesses in the food processing, logistics, and distribution industries.
While the estimated cost in China typically ranges between $120–150 per square meter, obtaining a customized quotation from a professional cold storage engineering company is the best way to determine the exact cost for your project.