Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are essential for many businesses that require high-volume storage and transportation solutions, so opting to rent IBC tanks can be a cost-effective and flexible option for many.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about IBC tank rentals and discover how to make informed decisions on your supply chain packaging to support your storage and transportation needs.
Introduction to IBC Tanks
Known for their durability and efficiency, reusable IBC tanks are the ideal solution to store and transport liquids and granulated substances. Typically made from materials such as stainless-steel or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), they are easy to handle, making them a popular choice for industries like industrial chemicals, food and beverage, and pharmaceuticals.
Types of IBC Tanks
There are many types of IBC tanks, but the most common are rigid IBCs, which are made of plastic or metal and are suitable for liquids. There are also flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs), such as bulk bags, which are more suited for granulated substances. Some rigid IBCs have conical bottoms to support viscous liquids, whereas others are meant for one-way applications and are disposed of after each trip. Regardless of whether you are interested in renting or purchasing, choosing the right type of IBC is critical for operational success.
Capacity and Size Options
IBC tanks are available in many different sizes and capacities, typically ranging from 275- to 330-gallon for plastic models and 350- to 793-gallon for stainless-steel models. Specialty sizes also exist but aren’t as typical. When selecting a tank, consider storage volumes and transportation frequency, as it’s important to utilize the correct size IBC to optimize product volume delivery and keep transportation costs to a minimum.
Rental vs. Purchase
In the past, many businesses have chosen to purchase IBC totes, which can require a large amount of capital expenditure depending on operational needs. This not only reduces company cashflow but is often paired with long lead times due to the tank manufacturing process. Renting, on the other hand, is a highly cost-effective approach that can often lower your total packaging costs, providing financial flexibility as well as the ability to scale your operations—when needed, as needed—without spending valuable CAPEX up-front.
Cost Considerations
The cost of renting an IBC tank varies based on factors such as size, material of construction, transportation requirements, and rental duration. Most rental providers offer daily rates and, at times, even monthly and yearly rates. Providers that offer tank maintenance can also bundle services, such as tank cleaning, refurbishment, and recertification, into the total rental rate. Additional expenses like delivery and pickup should also be considered when evaluating costs.
Rental Duration and Flexibility
Rental contracts for IBC tanks can range from days to years, offering flexibility – and scalability – to suit different project scopes and timelines. Longer rental terms will produce lower daily rental rates and vice versa, making IBC rentals a viable solution for both short- and long-term business needs. When renting, it’s important to clearly understand the terms of the rental contract, including the rental period, extension options, penalties for late returns, and tank return policies.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular maintenance is crucial to maximizing the value and performance of your rented IBC tanks. Proper tank cleaning, inspections, recertifications, and repairs are essential and oftentimes required, especially for those storing and transporting hazardous materials and chemicals. IBC tank services are sometimes offered directly by rental providers or through a network of third-party partners.
Compliance and Regulations
Ensuring IBC tanks are in compliance with industry regulations and safety standards is of utmost importance. Per UN and DOT, stationary tanks must be tested and recertified every 2.5 years, while transport tanks require recertification every 2.5 and 5 years. Non-compliance can result in legal issues and safety risks, so it’s critical to verify that the rental provider adheres to all necessary standards. You can read more on IBC testing requirements here.
Delivery and Transportation
Safe, efficient, and on-time delivery is key to ensuring tank rentals integrate smoothly into your operations. When you own a fleet of IBC tanks, you’re responsible for coordinating transportation, dispatching drivers, and tracking assets—all of which can come with a hefty price tag and safety concerns. Contracting your rental provider to handle IBC transportation allows you to focus on other areas of your business.
Fleet Management
Understanding the movements of your IBC tanks can improve operations, especially for companies involved in chemical distribution that are moving large and frequent volumes of chemicals. Having access to tracking technologies, data, and reporting through your rental provider’s fleet management program, if available, will unlock the potential performance of your tank fleet.
Storage Considerations
When not in use, proper storage of IBC tanks is needed to maintain their condition and functional integrity while mitigating safety risks. Ensure that the storage area is compatible with the material of the tanks, particularly for sensitive substances or in varying environmental conditions. Consider the space required for storing the tanks, especially if renting multiple units or large-capacity tanks. Due to their square design and ability to be stacked, IBCs can be easily stored at any facility; however, if limited on space, speak with your rental provider about in-region storage and warehousing availability.
Safety and Handling
When handling IBC tanks, especially those containing hazardous materials, safety needs to be a top priority. Team members should be trained and certified in safe handling procedures, including loading, unloading, and moving the tanks. On-site personnel must know how to operate various IBC safety features (if applicable), such as spill containment and pressure relief valves, which are in place to reduce accidental environmental releases and spills. Your tank rental company can provide you with IBC handling guidelines.
Environmental Considerations
For companies looking to reduce their environmental impact, renting reusable IBC tanks provides a circular, long-term solution and positively reflects a company’s commitment to environmental responsibility. For example, stainless-steel IBCs can be reused for 25 years or longer with proper maintenance. Eliminating single-use and one-way totes from your supply chain will help your business achieve internal sustainability goals.
Selecting the Right Supplier
When selecting a supply chain bulk packaging supplier, consider the range of chemical storage containers offered along with any other services they can provide, such as IBC tank cleaning and transportation. A good tank rental partner will provide you with long-lasting container solutions, transparent pricing, clear rental terms, and excellent customer service. Also, be sure to have a clear understanding of their environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) policies and commitments—you can learn about ours here.
Evaluating Customer Service and Support
Receiving quality customer service and support from your IBC tank rental company is another factor to consider during your supplier evaluation. Having access to highly knowledgeable and responsive team members can greatly enhance your rental experience, providing peace of mind and swift resolution of any issues that may arise.
Now that you understand everything you need to know about IBC tote rentals, it should be clear that renting IBC tanks is a cost-effective, scalable, sustainable, and long-term storage and transportation solution, especially for the chemicals industry. By considering factors such as type, size, cost, compliance, and supplier ESG commitments, you can choose the right IBC tank rental partner that aligns with your business objectives and operational requirements. Remember, the right choice of IBC tank rental can enhance efficiency, ensure safety, and contribute to the overall success of your operations.
