Thermal Boxes

Thermal boxes are indispensable equipment for every HoReCa business where food transport is an integral part of daily operations. A properly selected thermal box ensures HACCP compliant temperature maintenance throughout the entire transport period, protects food from contamination and mechanical damage, and guarantees the fresh quality of the food that reaches the end consumer or is served in a canteen.

Types and construction of thermal boxes

Thermal boxes are available in various designs to suit transport needs and service formats. Polystyrene (styrofoam) thermal boxes are lightweight and economical, ideal for one-time or low-intensity use with good insulation efficiency. Plastic thermal boxes are durable, sealable and feature a hermetic closure, making them suitable for intensive daily use cycles in canteens and catering. Stainless steel thermal boxes are a premium solution with excellent hygiene and durability for intensive professional use. CAMBRO thermal boxes are an internationally recognised brand for HoReCa professionals, offering outstanding temperature retention; explore CAMBRO THERMAL BOXES. Foldable thermal boxes are more compact for storage when not in active transport. Also explore cooling and heating elements for thermal boxes.

Temperature maintenance and HACCP compliance

The main function of thermal boxes is to keep food at the temperature required by HACCP standards throughout the entire transport period. Hot food must be maintained above +63°C for the entire transport period in accordance with food safety regulations. Cold food must be kept below +8°C during transport. Cooling and heating elements can be used for additional efficiency, helping to maintain the temperature in thermal boxes. Temperature retention time depends on the thermal box’s construction, material, thickness and the initial temperature of the food. Contact the BHS team for specific temperature retention parameters. Also explore food thermoses.

Capacities and sizes for HoReCa needs

The choice of thermal box capacity depends on the volume of food to be transported and container standards. Small thermal boxes (10–20 l) are suitable for individual meal sets or small-volume food delivery. Medium thermal boxes (20–50 l) are ideal for serving medium-sized groups or transporting food from the kitchen to the distribution point in a canteen. Large thermal boxes (50–100 l and more) are suitable for large catering events and bulk food transport between sites. Thermal boxes compatible with the GN (Gastronorm) standard make it easier to integrate with standardised GN containers. Also explore food delivery bags for smaller volume needs.

Hygiene and maintenance

Regular cleaning and disinfection of thermal boxes are essential to ensure HACCP compliance in food delivery and catering businesses. Inner surfaces must be washed with hot water and food-safe cleaning agents after each use. The hermetic seal and lid must be cleaned and checked for proper sealing to prevent heat loss. Plastic thermal boxes are easy to clean by hand or in a cleaning machine (depending on the model). Proper storage after cleaning ensures a hygienic condition for the next use.

HoReCa usage scenarios

A catering company with regular off-site event catering orders uses thermal boxes to safely transport hot food from the central kitchen to the event location, maintaining temperature and food quality. A canteen with multiple distribution points uses thermal boxes to transport food from the main kitchen to each distribution point at a HACCP compliant temperature. BHS supplies thermal boxes to HoReCa businesses.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a thermal box keep food warm? It depends on the model and construction—most professional thermal boxes maintain heat for 4–6 hours, and longer with heating elements. Contact the BHS team for specifications of specific models. Explore the range of thermoses for food transport.

Which containers are compatible with thermal boxes? Mostly GN standard containers, but this may vary by model. Contact the BHS team. Also explore container trolleys.

Why choose BHS?

BHS – Baltic HoReCa Solutions supplies professional equipment for restaurants, cafés, hotels and canteens: more than 20,000 products from many manufacturers. Our specialists help you choose the right equipment and spare parts for your kitchen or bar.

Delivery

We deliver across the European Union. Delivery time and cost depend on the order volume and destination — contact the BHS team for an exact price and lead time.