Understanding FLEXI and ISO Tanks

In the shipping industry, the two major logistics services offered for bulk liquid transportation are Flexitanks and ISO tanks. One of the two solutions may be preferable over the other by the freight forwarders, depending on the destination, the point of origin, the type of product to be shipped, and many other factors.

Although both the Flexitank and Iso tanker serve the same objective, they are distinctly different. In this article, we will dive deep into the characteristics and benefits of these two different transportation methods to understand which one is the right choice for your business.

What is a Flexitank?

Flexitanks, as the name suggests, are flexible bags that are utilised to ship non-hazardous liquids over long distances, be it by any mode of transport: road, sea, or rail.

These flexible tanks are made of numerous layers of polyethylene and a woven polypropylene outer covering. Thus, flexitanks are collapsible bags, meaning they can be folded into a smaller size that can fit into a dry container. As the flexitanks carry liquid, they depend on the walls of the container for stability.

These flexible storage bags turn regular shipping containers into a safer, more affordable, and healthier alternative to custom tankers for transporting bulk liquids. By partnering with a reputed company like Total Transport, you can also load the flexitanks from a location of your choice.

What is an ISO tank?

The ISO tank container has been named after the ISO standard, meaning its size and design follow global transport rules, making it easy to move across ships, trucks, and trains.

ISO tankers are made up of stainless steel, and the inner walls of ISO tanks are treated with protective coating to prevent them from corroding or causing any liquid contamination. Thus, we can leverage their durable design to transport both hazardous and non-hazardous liquids safely.

ISO tanks can be easily recognized by their cylindrical shape and the manway located at the top. They are a safe and flexible way to transport all kinds of liquid cargo, including pressurized and refrigerated gases.

Differences between Flexitanks and ISO Tanks

We’ve understood the functions of flexitanks and ISO tank containers, but let’s dive into the key differences between them and how they’re used in shipping across different industries:
Size: Flexitanks come in various sizes, usually between 16,000 and 24,000 liters. ISO containers can carry between 5,500 and 11,600 gallons.
Duration: ISO tank containers can last up to 30 years with regular maintenance and cleaning to meet safety standards, while flexitanks are disposable after a single use.
Load capacity: One ISO tanker can carry large amounts of bulk liquid, reducing the need for multiple flexitanks.

Advantages of Flexitanks:

Cost-Efficiency: Flexitanks are cheaper than other storage options like tank containers and drums. Flexitanks also require less labor for easy handling, loading, and unloading. Also, being disposable, so no cleaning is needed after use.
Large Shipping Capacity: A single flexibag can hold up to 24,000 liters, shipping 50% more than bottled goods and 40% more than drummed shipments.
Global Availability: Flexitanks can be shipped worldwide and fit easily into 20-ft containers, with no prep required before use.
Eco-Friendly: They are recyclable, making them more environmentally friendly.

Disadvantages of Flexitanks:

Container Damage: Flexitanks can pressure freight container sidewalls, causing permanent bulging, which some carriers may avoid.
Risk of Leakage: Despite multiple layers, flexitanks can still leak if damaged or under excessive pressure.
Lack of Equipment: Not all facilities have the right loading/unloading equipment.

Advantages of ISO Tanks:

Economic Benefits: ISO tanks hold more liquid than a standard container, reducing transportation costs for both land and sea shipments.
Security: ISO tanks offer excellent protection, preventing contamination and leakage.
Easy and Quick: These tanks are simple to use, with quicker loading and unloading, making operations more efficient.

Disadvantages of ISO Tanks:

Space Constraints: ISO tanks take up significant space.
Cleaning: They require cleaning after each use, which adds costs and delays, especially when demand is high.
High Manufacturing Costs: ISO tanks are expensive to produce and replace, and their production uses significant energy, reducing some environmental benefits.

Conclusion:

Choosing between Flexitanks and ISO tanks depends on the cargo forwarder’s needs, shipment frequency, handling capabilities, and environmental factors. To find out which option is best for you, contact Total Transport, a leading logistics company in India. We’re ready to assist you and help find the right solution for your business.