China cold storage solution provider
Building a cold storage facility is one of the most crucial parts of constructing a logistics distribution center. It directly affects the quality of perishable goods such as food and pharmaceuticals, as well as overall logistics costs and operational efficiency.
So, how much does it actually cost to build a cold room for a logistics center? The answer depends on several factors including size, temperature requirements, and configuration.
1. Cold Storage Construction Cost by Size
The scale of the cold room is one of the most important factors influencing construction costs.
According to market data and project experience in China, smaller cold rooms usually have higher unit costs because material and equipment expenses are distributed over a smaller area. Larger cold storage facilities, on the other hand, benefit from economies of scale, leading to lower costs per square meter.
Here’s a general reference for cold storage construction prices in China (converted to USD):
| Cold Room Size | Estimated Cost (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 5 m² Freezer Room | $1,400 – $2,100 | Small-scale unit for test or retail use |
| 10 m² Freezer Room | $2,800 – $3,100 | Mini cold storage for small logistics hubs |
| 100 m² Freezer Room | $12,500 – $16,700 | Medium-sized commercial storage |
| 500 m² Freezer Room | $48,600 – $69,400 | Standard logistics cold warehouse |
| 1,000 m² Freezer Room | $111,000 – $167,000 | Large-scale distribution center cold room |
💡 Note: The above prices are based on the construction cost in China and may vary depending on the region, materials, and refrigeration equipment
2. Other Factors Affecting the Cost
Apart from size and temperature requirements, the following factors also influence the total investment:
- Insulation Material (PU, PIR, or rock wool panels)
- Refrigeration System (compressor brand and configuration)
- Automation Level (manual, semi-automatic, or fully automated systems)
- Construction Location & Labor Cost
- Temperature Zoning Design (multi-room temperature control)
👉 To see how a real logistics distribution project was built and operated, check out our Logistics Cold Chain Storage Project Case for detailed technical data and construction photos.