Storage and shipping can often present a large cost to any company. Luckily, there are numerous options on the market today that can safely and securely store precious cargo and can also provide a cost-saving shipping option.
Where convenience is currency, it is essential to have an item that is versatile, functional and secure. The IBC tote is just one of these items, providing companies with safe and secure storage while making it easy to move from one point to another.
IBC Totes: The Basics
An Intermediate Bulk Container, or IBC for short, is a reusable industrial container designed for the transport and storage of bulk liquid and granulated substances, such as liquids, chemicals, food ingredients, solvents, pharmaceuticals, etc. They are also used in areas such as aquaponics, general bulk storage and the collecting of rainwater for drinking or harvesting.
IBCs are generally considered more durable than cardboard boxes or wood pallets and containers, yet smaller and easier to manage than shipping containers. The intermediate size makes them ideal for bulky or heavy items.
The three broad types of IBCs in use today can be categorized under rigid, folding and flexible. Rigid IBCs are the most durable, though folding and flexible IBCs can be broken down to save shipping space on the return journey.
Most cube-shaped rigid IBCs are made of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), a high strength-to-density ratio product. They also usually have metal cage housing for extra security.
There is a tap or valve at the base where a hose can be attached to allow easy transfer of contents into smaller containers for easy packaging, distribution and sale in your target location. This is important when certain packaging and legal requirements need to be ensured locally.
They are capable of stacking and can be moved by pallet jack or forklift, providing a great solution for both storage and shipping.
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Common Dimensions of IBC Totes
IBCs are sold in a variety of shapes and sizes but the two most popular volumes are 275 gallons and 330 gallons. This volume range is situated between drums and tanks, which is where the term “intermediate” comes from. The most common outer dimensions are 48” x 40” x 46”, making them ideal for shipping on a pallet.
Advantages of IBCs
There are numerous benefits to using Intermediate Bulk Containers. The biggest benefit is that they provide a cost-effective way to safely move a variety of products from one place to another. The cubic form allows them to transport more material in the same footprint compared to cylindrical-shaped containers.
IBCs are made out of extremely durable and strong materials, making them ideal for transporting a variety of materials, including chemicals. They are durable and have long lifespans, and they are compatible with a number of accessories, including manual hydraulic tilt tables.
Cube-shaped rigid IBCs often have a standard footprint of 48”x40”, which enables easy shipping, conveying and transport due to it being a common pallet size in North America and other countries. The manufacturer/processor of a product can bulk package a product in one place and ship to the other at a reasonably low cost.
Find High-Quality IBC Totes For Your Shipping Needs
Recent IBC Innovations
One new IBC option is attempting to carve out a niche in the IBC market. New IBC options are emerging that are collapsible, reusable and made of galvanized steel. They supply more durability and longevity over thousands of trips in closed or open loop systems. Fully collapsible, these containers can be erected or dismantled in less than a minute and require a fraction of the return storage space, reducing costs. The steel walls provide added strength so containers can be stacked up to four high and can deliver considerable cost savings — as well as a reduction in carbon footprint.
The Bottom Line
Intermediate bulk container totes are versatile, durable and functional, making them ideal for storing a variety of products. They can be easily shipped, and you can rest easy knowing that your product is being safely and securely stored. Air Sea Containers offers a wide range of IBC products and accessories, and it offers fast and secure shipping – all with a great price. If you have any questions or are in need of a particular size IBC, please contact our friendly team and we’ll be happy to help.
