In the transportation of liquid goods, the choice between ISO tank containers and flexibag containers has become a focal point for companies looking for efficient and sustainable transportation solutions. ISO tank containers offer many advantages over their flexibag counterparts.
ISO tank containers: a sustainable solution for the transportation of liquid goods
Often promoted as a convenient alternative to ISO tank containers, flexibags raise a number of environmental concerns. Weighing over 40 kilograms, a flexi-bag is made of polyethylene and polypropylene sleeves that are disposed of in a landfill after just one use - the equivalent of more than 7,500 disposable shopping bags. In contrast, ISO tank containers have a lifespan of more than 20 years and are approximately 90% recyclable at the end of their useful life, thus contributing to long-term sustainability.
In addition, unlike rigid plastics, which are easier to recycle, flexibags pose a significant recycling challenge due to the product residue left in the bag after use and its thin 0.25 mm polyethylene film. The misleading claim that flexibags do not require cleaning after use has been debunked because of the need to drain and clean bags containing liquids. Instead, ISO tank containers undergo controlled and monitored cleaning to ensure the safe reprocessing of quality and/or hazardous cargo.
Enhancing Environmental Responsibility in the Supply Chain with ISO Tank Containers
Environmental responsibility throughout the supply chain is an important consideration. ISO tank container operators retain responsibility for the overall environmental impact, ensuring that the process is controlled and audited from design through production to the end-of-life stage. In contrast, flexibags lack traceability and shift the responsibility for recycling and disposal to the consignee.
Safety issues: Flexibags and ISO tank containers
In addition to environmental concerns, ITCO has also emphasized the security risks associated with flexibags. In addition to not being allowed to carry hazardous substances, the removal and disposal of contaminated Flexibags poses a risk to handlers at global destinations because of the lack of global procedures and controls. Instead, ISO tank containers adhere to audited safety procedures that minimize risk and ensure the well-being of everyone involved or affected by the transport.
ISO tanks simplify the loading and unloading process by minimizing the risk of leakage and ensuring standardized connections. In contrast, due to the risk of breakage, flexible bags can lead to spills and challenges during the unloading process, especially if they are completely emptied at the end of the unloading process.
Road safety: ISO tank containers lead the way
Road safety is another important aspect that makes ISO tank containers superior to flexibags. Specialized training for drivers handling liquid cargo in tank containers ensures stability and reduces risk, a standard lacking in traditional dry box trucking companies used to transport flexibags. The potential for liquid surges can affect braking and stability in transportation and tank containers, making flexibags less safe for both drivers and the public.
Conclusion: The Case for ISO Tank Containers
In conclusion, the evidence provided by ITCO strongly supports ISO tank containers as a more sustainable, economical and safer option for the transportation of liquid goods.