Glossary

Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC)

Definition

An Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) is a reusable, multi-use industrial container designed for the transport and storage of bulk liquid and granulated substances, such as chemicals, food ingredients, solvents, and pharmaceuticals. IBCs are made from various materials, including plastic, steel, or composite materials, and typically have a volume capacity ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 liters. In road freight logistics, IBCs are widely used to efficiently transport bulk goods while ensuring safety, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability.

— sennder Team

FAQ

Some advantages of using IBCs in road freight logistics include: - **Cost-effectiveness:** IBCs can be reused multiple times, reducing packaging costs. - **Space efficiency:** IBCs have a cubic design, allowing for optimal use of storage and transportation space. - **Safety:** IBCs are built with strong, durable materials, ensuring the safe transportation of hazardous and non-hazardous goods. - **Environmental sustainability:** Reusable IBCs reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of packaging materials.
There are several types of IBCs used in road freight logistics: - **Rigid IBCs:** Made of plastic, steel, or composite materials, rigid IBCs are durable and suitable for transporting a wide range of goods. - **Flexible IBCs:** Also known as bulk bags or big bags, flexible IBCs are made of woven fabric and designed to transport dry, flowable goods. - **Folding IBCs:** These IBCs can be folded when empty, saving space during storage and transportation.
IBCs are designed for easy handling during road freight logistics. They are often equipped with features like lifting loops or forklift pockets for efficient loading and unloading. Additionally, they can be stacked to optimize space usage in warehouses and transportation vehicles.
Example or usage in road freight logistics

A chemical manufacturer needs to transport a large quantity of liquid chemicals to various customers. The manufacturer opts for plastic IBCs to store and transport the chemicals safely and efficiently. The IBCs are loaded onto trucks using forklifts, and the cubic design allows for optimal utilization of the truck's space. Once the chemicals are delivered, the IBCs are returned to the manufacturer for cleaning and reuse in future shipments.

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