In the world of bulk liquid and powder transportation, it is always advantageous to look for and implement the most cost-effective and efficient solutions. This essentially means that traditional options such as drum containers are not always the most favourable choice.
This useful blog post reveals the benefits of switching from a drum solution to a collapsible intermediate bulk container (IBC) solution, used with quality liquid liners.
An Overview of IBCs
In the previous post, we compared IBC to BIC (bottle in cage) solutions. In case you missed it, here is an overview of an IBC container and its uses. An IBC is:
- A reusable container
- Much easier to clean after use than a drum
- Ideally produced from food-grade polypropylene
- Appreciated for its simplified filling and decanting processes
- Praised for its remarkable space efficiency (i.e. the collapsible ones)
- Typically known for its sustainability, simplicity, safety and cost-effectiveness
- Used for multiple products, including food-grade and petrochemical products
- A lightweight and environmentally sustainable alternative to non-reusable containers
- Economical when empty and collapsed, taking up to 60% less space compared to rigid containers
- Designed for storing and transporting bulk liquids, powders, semi-solids, pastes and some solids in liners
Here’s How a Collapsible IBC Compares to a Typical Shipping Drum
#1 Size and Capacity
A typical shipping drum can carry approximately 205 litres of liquid. IBCs, used with liquid liners, have a greater storage capacity. An IBC that takes up to 1 250 litres / 330 gallons on one pallet uses the same amount of space as four drums that can only store 800 litres / 220 gallons
#2 Transportation
Transporting IBCs is more efficient than transporting drums. One truckload of collapsed IBCs can accommodate what would require almost four and a half truckloads of empty drums.
#3 Handling
Maneuvering individual drums is cumbersome and comes with more risks than the process of handling IBCs which is smoother and less prone to accidents.
#4 Process
With IBCs, the process is streamlined and mess is minimised as the need for separate pallets, shrink wrap and strapping is eliminated.
#5 Usage
While drums are generally single-use only, IBCs can be used multiple times thanks to liquid liners, reducing packing waste from 96 kg to 2.5 kg.
#6 Product Retention
When used with liquid liners, collapsible IBC totes eliminate product waste by draining completely, while drums unfortunately tend to collect residual product.
#7 Time and Labour
Time and labour savings afforded by IBCs are significant advantages. Handling and filling just one container achieve the same volume as filling five drums.
#8 Stacking & Floor Space
IBCs can be safely stacked up to three-high, without the need for racking, which frees up 60% more floor space. Even better, when empty and collapsed, you can stack up to 15 IBCs which is equivalent to 18 pallets of drums. The result? An impressive 84% reduction in used floor space.
To Summarise
Compared to drums, collapsible IBCs are:
- Lighter
- Time-saving
- More durable
- More hygienic
- Storage efficient
- More cost-effective
- Better suited for stacking
- Guaranteed to save on labour costs
- More efficient for shipping and storing liquid products
- Superior when it comes to stackability, being easier and safer
When it comes to liquid liners, ALC’s rigorously tested bags have been specially tailored for collapsible intermediate bulk containers (IBCs). These excellent liners assist a growing number of companies globally to efficiently transport bulk liquids, powders and more in a cost-effective and sustainable manner.
Are You Ready?
Make the switch today to start benefiting from the many advantages of IBCs paired with liquid liners. Reach out to find out more about ALC’s efficient and reliable liquid liner solutions specially made for collapsible IBCs.
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