Flexitank shipping solutions are specialized bulk liquid transport systems that use flexible bladder containers installed inside standard shipping containers. These cost-efficient alternatives to traditional liquid shipping methods can hold up to 27,000 litres of non-hazardous liquids, offering businesses reliable and scalable transport options for bulk cargo worldwide.
What exactly are flexitank shipping solutions?
Flexitank shipping solutions are flexible bladder containers designed specifically for bulk liquid transport within standard 20-foot shipping containers. These innovative containers transform regular shipping containers into liquid transport vessels, providing a practical alternative to traditional liquid shipping methods.
Unlike rigid tank containers, flexitanks are collapsible bags made from multiple layers of polyethylene that expand to fill the container space when loaded with liquid cargo. This design allows you to use existing container shipping infrastructure while accessing specialized liquid transport capabilities.
The key difference from traditional liquid shipping methods lies in flexibility and cost-efficiency. Where conventional methods might require dedicated tank vessels or rigid containers, flexitank solutions work within the standard container shipping network, giving you access to more shipping routes and departure times for your bulk liquid cargo.
How much liquid can a flexitank actually hold?
A flexitank can hold up to 27,000 litres of liquid cargo, making it suitable for substantial bulk shipments. This capacity represents a significant volume that can accommodate most commercial liquid transport requirements efficiently.
This 27,000-litre capacity means you can transport large quantities of liquid products in a single shipment, whether you’re moving food-grade liquids, industrial chemicals, or other non-hazardous bulk liquids. The substantial volume helps optimize your shipping costs per litre while maintaining the flexibility to use standard container shipping services.
For perspective, this capacity allows you to transport enough liquid to fill multiple smaller containers or drums in one efficient shipment. This consolidation reduces handling complexity and can significantly improve your logistics efficiency compared to shipping the same volume in smaller containers.
What types of liquids can you transport in flexitanks?
Flexitanks are designed for transporting non-hazardous liquids including food-grade products, industrial liquids, and various chemical solutions that don’t require specialized handling. The reliability of this shipping method makes it suitable for temperature-sensitive and quality-critical cargo.
Common liquid types include food and beverage ingredients like oils, syrups, and liquid food products that require food-grade transport conditions. Industrial applications cover non-dangerous chemicals, lubricants, and other liquid products that benefit from bulk transport efficiency.
The reliability aspect is particularly important for businesses requiring consistent quality during transport. Flexitank solutions provide controlled environments that protect liquid cargo from contamination while maintaining product integrity throughout the shipping process. However, hazardous materials and gases require specialized ISO tank containers rather than flexitank solutions.
How do flexitanks compare to ISO tanks for liquid shipping?
Flexitanks and ISO tanks serve different cargo requirements and operational needs. Flexitanks excel for non-hazardous liquids requiring cost-efficient transport, while ISO tanks handle hazardous materials, gases, and liquids needing pressure or temperature control.
From an operational perspective, flexitanks offer greater flexibility since they work within standard container shipping networks. You can access more shipping routes and schedules without being limited to specialized tank container services. This flexibility often translates to more departure options and potentially shorter transit times.
ISO tanks provide advantages for complex cargo requiring precise temperature control, pressure management, or hazardous material handling. They’re reusable rigid containers that offer consistent specifications across shipments but require specialized handling equipment and dedicated shipping services.
The choice between these solutions depends on your specific cargo characteristics and operational requirements rather than purely technical specifications. Flexitanks suit businesses prioritizing cost-efficiency and scheduling flexibility for non-hazardous liquids, while ISO tanks serve specialized cargo requiring controlled environments.
Why choose flexitank solutions for your bulk liquid transport needs?
Flexitank solutions offer cost-efficiency, flexibility, and scalability for bulk liquid transport. These advantages stem from their compatibility with standard container shipping networks and the comprehensive service model that includes end-to-end handling and global operations.
Cost-efficiency comes from accessing regular container shipping rates rather than specialized tank container services. You benefit from competitive pricing while maintaining service quality, as flexitank solutions integrate seamlessly with existing shipping infrastructure worldwide.
The flexibility advantage means you’re not limited to scheduled tank container routes. Standard container services offer more frequent departures and routing options, allowing you to align shipments with your operational timeline rather than adapting to limited specialized services.
Scalability becomes important as your business grows. Flexitank solutions can accommodate varying shipment sizes and frequencies without requiring long-term equipment commitments. The end-to-end handling approach means you don’t need to coordinate multiple service providers or manage complex logistics arrangements yourself.
When you work with experienced flexitank providers, you gain access to global operations that ensure consistent service quality regardless of destination. This comprehensive approach includes technical support, documentation handling, and recycling programmes that address the complete shipping lifecycle while maintaining transparent, predictable costs aligned with the full-service model. To explore how flexitank solutions can benefit your specific requirements, contact us for detailed consultation.