Types of Containers

Dangerous goods may be transported in a variety of container types. In some cases, the good is transported directly in a specified container without additional packaging. Some goods must be placed in several different packagings before they are considered properly packaged. Three primary types of containers are referred to, as follows:

• Tank - A receptacle to contain solids, liquids, or liquefied gases. This can refer to a portable tank, a road tank-vehicle, or a rail tank-wagon.
• Intermediate bulk container (IBC) - A rigid or flexible portable packaging designed for mechanical handling and resistant to the stresses of handling during transport.
• Bulk containers - Containment systems intended for the transport of solid substances and articles that are carried in direct contact with the container.

Bulk containers are permanent, reusable containers designed for multimodal transport without intermediate packing and unpacking. Despite the similarity in the terms, IBCs are not considered a type of bulk container.

To learn more about Multimodal Shipping visit our Multimodal DOT, IATA & IMDG HAZMAT Shipping Online Training web page.