Your tote containers hold the liquid lifeblood of your business; the key ingredients needed to develop that specific paint color, or even the building blocks of an essential new drug. Given the critical ingredients inside your totes, the question becomes, how can you preserve the outside during shipping and handling? Which measures are recommended for transporting tote containers without damage?

We’ve got some key handling techniques, but let’s recognize that you’ve already taken an initial step in the right direction by selecting IBCs over standard drums! After all, IBCs are a more durable and efficient alternative.

Metano IBC’s expert tips for transporting tote containers:

Tip 1: Moving: Proper fork lift positioning

Both stainless IBCs and poly totes can be moved by fork lift or pallet jack. Stainless totes have direct contact with the fork, but feature built-in lifting legs for easy positioning. Poly totes have a rigid pallet underneath. Anytime you move a poly container by fork, be aware of the real risk of puncture. Look for superior containers constructed of high-density poly enclosed in a galvanized tubular steel gird. Our poly totes feature four-way forklift entry for easy moving from virtually any position.

Tip 2: Sealing: Removing/replacing IBC lid covers

Covers should be opened slowly, to allow pressure to release. Nuts and clamp ring bolts should also be removed, then drum covers can be loosened to fully release the gasket from the tote. When replacing lids, all openings, including filling and vent holes, must be tightly closed per 49 CFR. When moving dangerous goods, it goes without saying that closures must be secure, since you are containing not only the liquids, but their chemical vapors as well. See the stainless steel lid installation procedure.  

Tip 3: Compatibility: Seals and gaskets

Whenever moving any type of chemical, compatibility between the solvent and the sealing/gasket material is critical. Corrosive chemical can weaken and deteriorate gaskets over time, which could lead to product contamination or even a disastrous chemical leak. For complete assurance, check with the chemical manufacturer and get you free stainless steel Chemical Compatibility support guide to explore requirements.

Tip 4: Filling & Stacking: Not too high

Our biggest tip for filling your tote container is to avoid overfilling it. Leave room for liquid expansion, and for contents to disperse. Filling can be done per you standard procedures. The same goal applies to stacking filled containers; not too high. Filled containers should be no more than three high for safety.

Once you have the right procedures in place, you’ll find that you can reduce risk with IBC tote containers. Need to supplement your tote container fleet? Connect with us for a custom rental quote – we’ll even help you transport them damage free!

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