Wooden Reefers

During the early to mid 1900’s, millions of tons of fresh produce was transported all over the US using wooden reefers to keep the food fresh during all seasons. Pacific Fruit Express (PFE) had the largest fleet of reefers cars with over XXX at it’s peak and while a majority of the cars operated on Western Railroads, they could often been seen all over Eastern Railroads delivering their good from coast to coast.

Design Shops has recreated these wooden cars in 1½” and 1” scale to closely match it’s full size companions using CNC wood routers and 3D modeling for accurate parts and easy to follow directions. The kits are designed with a ½” Baltic Birch skeleton with a simulated tongue and groove “skin” of ¼” MDF and multiple details pieces that are precut and ready to assemble. This allows the kits to be structurally sound and resist warping over time while still being light and easy to assembly. Please see the 1½” and 1” sections below for more information about the kits.

1½” Scale PFE Reefer Kit

Price range is $340-$663

Currently not available.

Multiple style options to fit steam/diesel era from 1920’s-1950’s (Wood/Steel Roofs & Grabirons/Ladders)

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1” Scale PFE Reefer Kit

Price range is $240-$426

Currently not available.

Multiple style options to fit steam/diesel era from 1920’s-1950’s (Wood/Steel Roofs & Grabirons/Ladders)

Quick Facts
2024 Pricing Tiers