As we continue our educational series on IBC’s, available on the Case Studies and Guides section of our website, we now discuss the key considerations in relation to Storage and Transport of dangerous or hazardous solutions using IBCs .
The first general principle is that only UN approved and certified IBCs may be used, so it’s re-assuring to know that Industrial Packaging only supplies UN approved IBCs. And in relation to Storage, the key factors to consider include
- The management and impact of Heat
- The risk of Fire
- Stacking considerations
- Best Practice for Storage
Heat and Fire Considerations
Heat and fire risks are probably the most significant hazards associated with IBC storage, and this is especially true when dealing with flammable or hazardous goods. EU guidance requires businesses to ensure that storage conditions must minimise exposure to ignition sources and excessive temperatures.
For that purpose, holding times of the IBCs in heat chambers should be kept as short as possible and temperatures should be carefully managed. Don’t subject the IBCs to temperatures of over 70 ºC (158 ºF) for longer periods of time, with a fitted inliner not over 60ºC (140 ºF).
Watch out for possible reactions and these can include
- Stress cracks in the HDPE
- Increased vapour pressure, which could either result in deformation of the inner bottle, or if there’s a vent, flammable gasses could be released.
- Increased elasticity can also lead to deformation of the IBC and pallets etc
One advantage of Schutz IBC’s is that as the plastic melts, it reduces the internal pressure in the IBC, facilitating a more controlled burning of the filling product. The plastic content of the IBC should be considered when looking at fire load – a standard Schutz IBC is 13kg, a Hazardous Goods one is 14.5kg.
Stacking and Transport
Structurally, Schutz IBCs are designed to withstand stacking loads and mechanical stresses without failure. The stacking capability of each IBC is indicated on its marking plate, including the maximum permissible stacking load.
In general, when stacking IBS:
- The bottom IBC and the entire pallet need to be on an even surface
- The forklift being used needs to have the appropriate lifting capacity
- The forks need to be long enough to fit under the entire length of the pallet.
- Only stack IBC’s of the same type e.g. only stack the EcoBulk MX with other EcoBulk MX IBC’s. Incorrect stacking—such as mixing different models or sizes—can create uneven loads and increase the risk of failure.
- The upper IBC needs to be interlocked with the cage of the IBC underneath it.
Generally, only a maximum of 3 IBC’s should be stacked on a fourth, assuming the stack is completely stable. The stacking of IBC’s during storage (static condition) needs to consider
- The density of the product
- The type of IBC being used
With high-rack storage, bear in mind:
- The minimum beam thickness should be 50 mm and the clear centre between both beams should be approx. 930 mm
- Ensure that the skids of the pallet rest in the middle of the high-rack beams and with roughly the same length projecting to the front and to the back
- Mounting frames or plates could simplify the storage in high-racks.
Transport
During transport, IBCs must be secured to prevent movement, tipping, or damage. Usually a maximum of 2 IBC’s can be stacked during transportation.
Labelling and documentation are essential during transport. IBCs must carry hazard labels and UN identification markings. In accordance with the Transport Regulations, it is mandatory that the stacking load pictogram is visibly affixed to UN IBCs. The values are also not to be exceed with NON UN IBCs!
Conclusion
The storage and transport of IBCs in the EU are tightly regulated to ensure safety, environmental protection, and operational reliability. General storage practices emphasise certification, inspection, compatibility, and containment. Heat and fire considerations focus on minimising ignition risks and managing temperature-related hazards. Stacking and transport best practice ensures structural stability and safe handling throughout the logistics chain.
Together, these requirements form a comprehensive framework that reduces the risks associated with bulk storage and transport of hazardous and non-hazardous materials in IBCs.
Finally, general storage practices emphasise stability and containment. IBCs should be stored on level, load-bearing surfaces to prevent tipping or collapse.
For expert guidance on the best IBC products to suit your requirements, contact us.