Packaging is easy to overlook when you compare chemical prices, but it affects almost every cost that follows: how you unload, where you store, how much product is left in the container and how you dispose of empties.
Bags and small containers
Bags of 25 kg and jerrycans up to 25 L suit low consumption, trials and sites without forklifts. They are easy to handle by hand, but the cost per kilogram is higher and every unit has to be opened and emptied.
Drums
Steel or plastic drums of around 200 L are the standard for regular, moderate use. They stack on pallets, fit most chemical stores and can be decanted with a drum pump.
IBCs
Intermediate bulk containers hold about 1,000 L in a single unit with a bottom valve. One IBC replaces five drums, cuts handling time and leaves less residue. You will need a forklift and suitable bunded floor space.
Bulk tanker delivery
If you use several tonnes a month, a storage tank filled by road tanker usually gives the lowest cost per kilogram and removes packaging waste completely. It needs an upfront investment in a tank, bunding and an offloading point.
| Monthly use | Usually the best fit |
|---|---|
| Under 200 kg | Bags or jerrycans |
| 200 kg to 1 tonne | Drums |
| 1 to 5 tonnes | IBCs |
| Over 5 tonnes | Bulk tanker into your own tank |
Not sure where you sit? Tell us your monthly volumes and we will suggest the most economical option.
Questions about this topic?
Our chemists can advise on your specific process.
