Flexitank Shipping Containers

Container Projects manages the supply of equipment tailored for bulk liquid logistics. For businesses requiring bulk liquid transport, we offer container sales and flexible container hire options. You can request a container quote to confirm lead times for liquid-ready units at our regional depots. Our network ensures that every unit reaches your site in the United Kingdom, ready for immediate fitting.

A flexitank is a high-strength multilayer bladder that converts a standard box into a bulk liquid carrier. This system is ideal for food-grade liquids, non-hazardous chemicals, and industrial oils. We often supply one-trip containers as the base for flexitank installations. A one-trip unit is a new container that has made a single journey from the manufacturer to the UK. Every unit intended for international transport is fitted with a CSC plate. A CSC plate is a safety approval plate required for international shipping to certify structural integrity.

Choose the right container size and type

Flexitanks are almost exclusively used with 20ft units due to weight and volume stability. Selecting the correct base container is essential for the safety of the liquid payload.

20ft Flexitank Containers

The 20ft general purpose unit is the standard platform for flexitank systems. These units can carry between 16,000 and 24,000 litres of liquid. The internal walls must be clean and free of debris to prevent bladder punctures. The payload is the maximum weight of cargo the container can carry. For a 20ft flexitank setup, the liquid payload must not exceed the gross weight limit of the container or the road haulage limits.

Bulkhead and Lining

The flexitank system includes a bulkhead and a protective liner. The bulkhead is a reinforced barrier placed behind the doors to support the weight of the liquid during transit. If you require a rigid vessel for hazardous materials, you should consider an ISO tank instead. Container Projects provides technical data for various container types to ensure you choose the correct vessel for your cargo.

Hire or buy

Container Projects assists clients in selecting the best acquisition route for liquid logistics. Buying a container is a practical choice for companies with permanent liquid transport routes or those using units for static on-site storage. Hire is a flexible solution for short-term projects or seasonal production increases. We manage the supply and delivery of units for both commercial paths across the UK.

Condition grades and what they mean

For flexitank use, the container's internal condition is vital. We supply units that meet the IICL standard. IICL refers to a high standard of container repair and condition set by the Institute of International Container Lessors. This grading ensures the floor and walls are smooth and structurally sound. For static storage, we provide units that are wind- and watertight. A wind- and watertight unit is a condition grade that ensures the unit is sealed against weather and light. We confirm the tare of every unit before dispatch. The tare is the weight of the empty container.

Delivery access, siting, and placement

Container Projects coordinates container haulage using hiab crane vehicles. Proper placement is essential for the safe loading of liquids:

• Ground Conditions: The unit must sit on firm, level ground. Any tilt can cause the flexitank to shift, putting uneven pressure on the bulkhead and container walls.
• Access Width: Delivery vehicles require a minimum width of 10ft. More space is required for deploying stabiliser legs.
• Manoeuvring Space: A delivery vehicle requires approximately 100ft of straight approach to position the unit safely.
• Vertical Clearance: Check for low bridges or power cables. A truck carrying a container can exceed 15ft in height.

Security, condensation, and aftercare

Security is managed through heavy-duty locking bars and factory-fitted lock boxes. Because flexitank containers are fully enclosed, condensation can occur. We recommend moisture traps to protect the bladder and bulkhead materials. Container Projects provides aftercare advice, including the regular inspection of the door seals and the floor condition to ensure the unit remains suitable for liquid transport over multiple uses.

Export use and compliance

For international transit, the container must maintain a valid CSC plate status. Container Projects ensures all units sold for export meet maritime safety standards. Flexitanks are a single-use, disposable technology which simplifies the logistics of empty returns compared to traditional tanks. We provide the necessary documentation to ensure the unit is accepted by shipping lines and port authorities.

How Container Projects handles supply and delivery

1. Consultation: Contact our team with your liquid type and required container dimensions.
2. Preparation: We select a high-grade 20ft unit and ensure the interior is prepared for a liner.
3. Logistics: We confirm site access and provide a delivery date, usually within 5 to 10 working days.
4. Transport: A hiab vehicle delivers the unit and positions it on your prepared surface.
5. Handover: The driver confirms the unit is level and the doors operate correctly for the installation of the bulkhead.