IBC containers are an integral part of the logistics industry. They are used primarily in pooling services in which numerous businesses share a pool of containers to transport and store their products. Such pooling services prove helpful for companies to enhance the efficiency of their supply chain, lower their impact on the environment and lower their costs.
In the arrangement for pallet pooling, it is a third party that owns and maintains IBC containers. This party offers the logistics for the containers, such as pick-up, delivery and any maintenance or repairs required. Businesses that have joined pooling services have to pay only for using containers, rather than buy and care for them as if they were their own.
What Is An IBC Container?
They are industrial containers used for storing and transporting powders, liquids, and other substances. Made from a wide range of matter such as composite materials, plastic, and metal, IBC containers can carry vast quantities of commodities, such as 500 to 2000 litres.
The most common kinds of IBCs are made of plastic. They are easy to handle, lightweight and feature different levels of capacities. They are made of polypropylene (PP) materials or polyethylene (HDPE) of high density. They are suitable for storing and transporting chemicals, liquids and other substances.
IBCs made of metal are usually manufactured in stainless steel or steel. They are robust and durable, rendering them ideal for storing and transporting materials of heavy duty. Metal IBCs are best for transporting hazardous materials, especially in the petroleum and chemical industries.
Composite IBCs are made from a combination of metal and plastic materials. They incorporate the best qualities of both options, being lightweight and incredibly durable. These IBCs are ideal for transporting hazardous materials and are primarily used in the food and chemical industries.
What Are The Benefits of IBC Containers To Businesses?
IBC containers provide many benefits to companies that need to transport their commodities, such as:
● Cost-effective
These containers are highly cost-effective since they can be re-utilised multiple times, lowering the cost of storage and transport.
● Easy handling
They are designed such that they can be handled easily by forklifts, rendering them simple to unload and load.
● Durability
IBCs are fashioned to undergo harsh environments and are sufficiently durable to be used multiple times.
● Versatility
They are ideal for storing and transporting a wide range of materials, such as powders, liquids and other goods.
● Ease of stacking
IBCs are designed such that they can be easily stacked, making them easy to transport and store.
What Are The Most Common Uses of IBC Containers?
IBCs are used in different industries for storing and transporting powders, liquids and other materials. Their convenience and versatility have made these a popular choice for businesses that need safe and cost-effective transport and storage of materials. Let’s look at some of the most common applications in more detail:
● Chemicals
Some of the typical uses of IBCs are for storing and transporting chemicals. Several businesses depend on these containers to transport hazardous materials like solvents, alkalis and acids. These containers are so designed to endure harsh conditions while transporting and handling chemicals. They have a wide array of features that make them suitable for this, like sealable lids, robust construction and tamper-evident seals.
● Beverages and food
IBC containers are typically used in the beverages and food industry. They help transport food-grade materials with approval by regulatory bodies. Such containers are suitable for transporting and storing ingredients of foods like oils, syrups and liquids. They are also suited to storing and transporting beverages like wine and juices. The containers are designed to maintain the integrity and quality of the products, making them ideal for companies with a priority on food safety.
● Drugs and Pharmaceuticals
The containers can help transport various drugs and pharmaceuticals, such as granules, powders and liquids. The containers have to adhere to strict standards of hygiene. As per the procedures, these containers must be sterilised to protect the products from any environmental damage. Also, tamper-resistant seals in the containers ensure the products’ security during transportation.
● Waste Management
Waste management companies use IBC containers to transport non-hazardous and hazardous waste, such as sludge and liquid waste. The containers are leak-proof, ensuring the safe transport of goods. Moreover, they are suitable for handling and transporting heavy waste materials because of their sturdy construction.
● Agriculture
The agricultural sector uses IBC containers for storing and transporting agricultural chemicals like herbicides and fertilisers. The containers can withstand harsh conditions and can be moved easily using equipment like forklifts. They also suit the transport of bulk products of agriculture like seeds and grains.
● Automotive industry
Automotive fluids like brake fluids, coolants and oils can be transported by IBC containers in the automotive industry. Such fluids are kept secure during transport as they are leak-proof and durable. The containers can also be used to transport automotive parts such as transmissions and engines.
In sum, IBC containers are highly versatile, robust and cost-effective modes of transporting various materials. They are instrumental in the sector of pooling services in logistics and serve large sectors across many industries.
