Cold Storage Construction: Building Smarter, Cooler Facilities for the Future

Cold storage construction is rapidly becoming one of the most vital components in commercial and industrial development. From food and beverage to pharmaceuticals and agriculture, companies across industries rely on purpose-built cold environments to keep products safe, fresh, and compliant. With rising demand and evolving regulations, businesses need cold storage construction partners who understand the nuances of temperature-controlled spaces.

That’s where APX Construction Group steps in. Based in Mankato, MN, and Sioux Falls, SD, APX brings decades of experience in designing and building high-performance cold storage facilities across the Midwest. Whether you’re planning a new build, expanding your footprint, or upgrading aging infrastructure, APX provides end-to-end solutions tailored to your needs.

In this blog, we’ll explore what makes cold storage construction unique, the key components of a successful build, and how APX helps clients build smarter, cooler facilities for the future.

Why Cold Storage Construction Matters

Cold storage construction is more than just building a large, insulated room. It’s a sophisticated blend of thermal engineering, logistics planning, regulatory compliance, and long-term operational strategy. Businesses depend on reliable cold storage to:

• Extend product shelf life
• Maintain food safety
• Meet USDA, FDA, and OSHA compliance
• Reduce energy costs
• Improve distribution speed and accuracy

As global supply chains evolve and consumer expectations shift toward freshness and speed, the role of well-designed cold storage facilities becomes even more critical.

Key Components of Cold Storage Construction

1. Site Selection and Pre-Construction Planning

Not all locations are equal when it comes to cold storage. APX starts every project by helping clients identify ideal sites with access to transportation networks, utilities, and labor. Climate, zoning, and drainage are evaluated to minimize risk and maximize operational efficiency.

In pre-construction, APX also assists with budgeting, code compliance, and value engineering, ensuring a smooth and predictable build process from start to finish.

2. Temperature Zone Configuration

Cold storage construction often includes multiple temperature zones, such as:

• Coolers (35–41°F) for fresh produce and beverages
• Freezers (0°F or lower) for meats, seafood, and frozen goods
• Blast Freezers for rapid temperature reduction
• Temperature-Controlled Docks to reduce spoilage during loading/unloading

APX helps clients strategically lay out zones to optimize workflow, minimize energy loss, and prepare for future expansion.

3. Insulation and Building Envelope

A strong thermal envelope is essential in cold storage construction. APX integrates insulated metal panels (IMP), vapor barriers, and energy-efficient roofing systems to control temperatures and prevent moisture infiltration.

Proper insulation reduces operational costs, protects against frost heaving, and helps systems run more efficiently.

4. Refrigeration and Mechanical Systems

One of the most critical investments in cold storage construction is refrigeration. APX partners with top-tier mechanical engineers and refrigeration providers to implement reliable, scalable systems that meet modern standards. Whether ammonia, CO2, or glycol systems are required, APX builds with flexibility and safety in mind.

Redundancy, backup generators, and smart monitoring systems are also integrated to ensure uptime and product security.

5. Flooring and Structural Considerations

Cold storage floors are exposed to freezing temperatures and high traffic. APX builds reinforced, heated floors with thermal breaks to prevent cracking and frost-related damage. Surfaces are chosen based on use case—slip resistance and durability are key.

Racking systems, mezzanines, and high ceilings are common in freezer and cooler spaces, and APX ensures that structural loads, clearances, and airflow are properly engineered.

6. Automation and Smart Technology

Modern cold storage construction is increasingly tech-forward. APX helps clients implement:

• Automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
• RFID and IoT tracking
• Inventory management systems
• Smart lighting and energy dashboards

These technologies increase accuracy, reduce labor costs, and improve safety in temperature-sensitive environments.

7. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Cold storage facilities consume large amounts of energy. APX is committed to sustainability and integrates green strategies such as:

• High-efficiency compressors and chillers
• LED lighting with motion sensors
• Solar panel-ready roofing
• Waste heat recovery
• Tight envelope construction to reduce thermal load

Sustainability isn’t just good for the environment—it also contributes to lower long-term operational costs and can qualify clients for tax incentives or LEED certification.

The APX Cold Storage Construction Process

1. Discovery and Design

APX starts every cold storage construction project by getting to know the client’s business, needs, and growth goals. This includes stakeholder interviews, site visits, and design charettes.

Using 3D modeling, APX creates detailed renderings and floor plans that allow clients to visualize every aspect of the facility, from pallet flow to mechanical rooms.

2. Permitting and Preconstruction

Navigating codes and permits for cold storage construction can be complicated. APX streamlines this process with in-house experts who ensure all state and federal regulations are met, including fire protection, sanitation, and ammonia safety standards.

Budgets and schedules are finalized with transparency and realistic contingencies.

3. Construction and Project Management

APX’s build team brings the project to life with a focus on quality, safety, and efficiency. Cold storage construction requires precision and coordination, particularly when installing refrigeration equipment or working in active facilities.

With strong project management and open communication, APX keeps clients informed and projects on schedule.

4. Commissioning and Handover

Before the handover, every cold storage system is tested for performance and compliance. APX provides operational training, documentation, and maintenance planning to ensure long-term success.

From ribbon cutting to the first shipment, clients are set up for smooth, uninterrupted operations.

Why Businesses Choose APX for Cold Storage Construction

✔ Industry Expertise: From food and beverage to agribusiness and biotech, APX understands the unique demands of each sector.
✔ End-to-End Services: One partner from design through construction and commissioning.
✔ Innovative Solutions: APX is at the forefront of building smarter, more efficient cold storage spaces.
✔ Midwestern Reliability: Based in Mankato and building across the region, APX combines national-level talent with small-town service.

Cold Storage Warehouse Construction

Ready to Build Smarter Cold Storage?

If your company is planning a new facility or seeking to expand an existing one, partner with a contractor who understands every detail of cold storage construction.

APX Construction Group is ready to bring your vision to life—with the performance, compliance, and flexibility you need to grow. From warehouses and food hubs to temperature-controlled fulfillment centers, APX builds cold storage that works as hard as you do.

Let’s build something cool.
Visit our website to get started.