Thawing A Turkey

How long should I thaw a frozen turkey?

Size of Turkey Thawing in the refrigerator  Thawing in cold water
8 - 12 pounds  1 to 2 days  4 to 6 hours
 
12 - 16 pounds  2 to 3 days  6 to 8 hours 
16 - 20 pounds  3 to 4 days  8 to 10 hours 
 
20 - 24 pounds 4 to 5 days  10 to 12 hours 

Foods Thawed in the refrigerator can be refrozen without cooking but there may be some loss of quality.
Source: USDA