Tank4Swap is an online platform that facilitates the eTank4Swap of empty tank containers between businesses in the global chemical and food industries.

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Tank4Swap collaborates with carefully chosen partners from the chemical and food industries, as well as ISO & FLEXI tank operators/producers and freight forwarding networks, to ensure that their platform is populated by high-quality members. These networks consist of vetted members who operate according to Tank4Swap’s established standards, creating new business opportunities and promoting and supporting each other in BULK LIQUID logistics, customs brokerage, and related services.

If you’re looking to ease your bulk liquid transport and to find reliable experts and customers, to expand your business and improve profitability, partnering with one of Tank4Swap’s network member’s associates could be a wise decision. Joining a network can help chemical producers/users and traders as well as ISO & FLEXI Tank operators / forwarders to   improve their ability to create new business opportunities with other trusted members, in a secure and supportive environment. The benefits of partnering with a network are numerous and include:

Global presence:

When looking for available units as a user or forwarder also when looking for available ready loads as an operator or forwarder to expand your approach, it often involves entering new territories or increasing visibility in territories where you already operate. Such market approach generally provides global coverage, with a presence in major trade lanes worldwide and coverage of most ports across most continents.

Working with professionals:

One of the biggest challenges of engaging in new business ventures with new partners is the uncertainty and trust when it comes proficiency as well as payments and transactions. However, working within Tank4swap minimizes these risks. Each member agent is thoroughly screened before acceptance, reducing the risk of dealing with new agents on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, we also offer payment insurance policies and claim settlement services through smart contracts and insurance coverages.

With over 2000 ports dispersed across all continents, Tank4Swap provides worldwide coverage. When searching for containers on Tank4Swap, you may search for certain ports, nations, or even whole areas.

If you operate sites that are not among the available options, please contact an Tank4Swap representative.

Chemical Grade

A chemical grade ISO/FLEXI tank is a type of tank container designed for the transportation of various chemicals in bulk quantities. These tanks are built according to specific international standards set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and are commonly referred to as ISO tanks.

Chemical grade ISO/FLEXI tanks are made of stainless steel / Polyethylene material. They are designed to handle hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals, and are typically used to transport liquids such as acids, solvents, and petroleum products and various kinds of chemicals.

These tanks are commonly used in the chemical and petrochemical industries for the safe and efficient transport of bulk liquids. They have a capacity of between 14,000 and 26,000 liters and are designed to be stacked on top of one another to maximize storage space during transportation.

Food Grade

A food grade ISO/FLEXI tank is a specialized type of ISO/FLEXI tank container used for transporting food-grade products such as edible oils, fruit juices, sweeteners, and other liquid food products. These tanks are made of materials that are safe for storing and transporting food products and are designed to maintain the quality and integrity of the food products during transit. They are made of stainless steel / Polyethylene or other food-grade materials and have specialized valves and fittings that are easy to clean and sanitize to prevent contamination of the products being transported. Additionally, food grade tanks may undergo specific certifications or inspections to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

Gas iso tanks

Gas ISO tanks are specialized containers designed for the transportation of liquefied gases such as propane, butane, and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). These tanks are built to withstand the high pressures and extreme temperatures required to transport these types of gases. Gas ISO tanks come in various sizes, from small portable tanks to large tanks that can carry up to 26,000 liters of gas. They are commonly used in the gas industry for the transportation of gas from refineries to distribution centers or for long-distance transportation of gas for industrial and commercial purposes. Gas ISO tanks are also subject to strict safety regulations and must meet specific standards for their design, construction, and maintenance to ensure the safe transportation of their contents.

Brand New

A brand new ISO/FLEXI tank refers to a tank that has never been used for the transportation of any cargo. These tanks are manufactured according to international standards set by organizations such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). They are designed and constructed to withstand the stresses and strains of transportation, including the weight of the cargo, the movements of the transport vehicle, and the environmental conditions during transit. Brand new ISO tanks are typically used for the transportation of sensitive or valuable cargo that requires a high level of safety and security, such as food, chemicals, or pharmaceuticals.

UCIRC

UCIRC (Uniform Conditions for the Inspection and Repair of Containers) is an international guide for the in-service inspection, repair, and maintenance of intermodal shipping containers. It was first introduced in 1975 by the International Container Bureau (BIC) and has since been widely adopted as the industry standard for container maintenance and repair. The aim of UCIRC is to establish consistent criteria and procedures for the inspection, repair, and maintenance of containers to ensure their safe transportation and to extend their useful life. The guidelines cover a wide range of topics, including the inspection and repair of structural components, flooring, doors, and seals, as well as the identification and marking of containers. The UCIRC guidelines are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in industry standards and best practices.

IICL-5 and IICL-6

IICL stands for “International Institute of Container Lessors,” an organization that provides technical services and advice to the container leasing and shipping industries. IICL-5 and IICL-6 are both standards developed by the organization for the condition of shipping containers.

IICL-5 refers to a standard that applies to used containers suitable for continued service in international shipping, provided that maintenance and repairs are performed in accordance with IICL guidelines. These guidelines outline specific criteria for the condition of the container, such as the condition of the flooring, walls, and roof, and any damage that must be repaired.

IICL-6, on the other hand, refers to a standard for the condition of new or near-new containers that have not been previously used for international shipping. These containers should be free of significant defects and should meet all the requirements of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).

Overall, these standards serve as guidelines for ensuring the quality and safety of containers used in international shipping.

ISO tank T grades refer to the types of tank containers designed for the transport of specific liquid products. There are several different T grades, with each grade being assigned a specific code:

T1 – Tank containers for gases (pressurized tanks)

T2 – Tank containers for liquids, non-dangerous goods (unpressurized tanks)

T3 – Tank containers for liquids, dangerous goods (unpressurized tanks)

T4 – Tank containers for powders and granular materials (unpressurized tanks)

T5 – Tank containers for non-dangerous liquids with a heating arrangement

T6 – Tank containers for liquids, dangerous goods with a heating arrangement

T7 – Tank containers for gases, non-dangerous goods (pressurized tanks)

T8 – Tank containers for gases, dangerous goods (pressurized tanks)

T9 – Tank containers for liquids, cryogenic temperature (unpressurized tanks)

T10 – Tank containers for non-dangerous liquids, insulated with a heating arrangement

T11 – Tank containers for liquids, dangerous goods, insulated with a heating arrangement

T12 – Tank containers for non-dangerous liquids, insulated without a heating arrangement

T13 – Tank containers for powders and granular materials, insulated or heated

T14 – Tank containers for liquids, dangerous goods, Type TC (tanks with a test pressure of at least 4 bar)

T15 – Tank containers for liquids, dangerous goods, Type U (tanks with a test pressure of at least 1.5 bar)

T16 – Tank containers for liquids, non-dangerous goods, Type TC (tanks with a test pressure of at least 4 bar)

T17 – Tank containers for liquids, non-dangerous goods, Type U (tanks with a test pressure of at least 1.5 bar)

T18 – Tank containers for liquids, refrigerated (unpressurized tanks)

T19 – Tank containers for non-dangerous gases (pressurized tanks)

T20 – Tank containers for non-dangerous liquids (unpressurized tanks)

T21 – Tank containers are also known as IMO Type 1 tanks and are used for the transportation of hazardous and non-hazardous liquids. These tanks are designed for a maximum allowable working pressure (MAWP) of 4 bar and have a cylindrical shape with a capacity ranging from 17,500 liters to 26,000 liters.

T22: A tank container for hazardous chemicals, such as acids, alkalis, and salts.

T23: The T23 ISO tank is designed for the transportation of liquids that have a lower flashpoint and a lower boiling point than those that can be transported in T22 and T21 tanks. It has a capacity of up to 26,000 liters and is commonly used for the transportation of solvents, gasoline, and other flammable liquids.

T24: This ISO tank is designed for the transportation of liquids that have a higher temperature than those that can be transported in T22 and T21 tanks. It has a capacity of up to 25,000 liters and is commonly used for the transportation of hot bitumen, asphalt, and other high-temperature liquids.

T25: The T25 ISO tank is designed for the transportation of gases, including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), butane, and propane. It has a capacity of up to 40,000 liters and is commonly used for the transportation of these gases in bulk.

T26: This ISO tank is designed for the transportation of non-hazardous chemicals, including food-grade products. It has a capacity of up to 26,000 liters and is commonly used for the transportation of liquid fertilizers, molasses, and other non-hazardous liquids.

T27: The T27 ISO tank is designed for the transportation of liquids that are corrosive, such as acids and alkalis. It has a capacity of up to 26,000 liters and is commonly used for the transportation of these types of liquids in bulk.

T28: This ISO tank is designed for the transportation of liquids that have a lower density, such as wines and spirits. It has a capacity of up to 26,000 liters and is commonly used for the transportation of these types of liquids in bulk.

T29: The T29 ISO tank is designed for the transportation of liquids that have a higher density than those that can be transported in T28 tanks. It has a capacity of up to 27,000 liters and is commonly used for the transportation of latex, vegetable oils, and other high-density liquids.

T50: A gas tank container for liquefied gases, such as propane, butane, and propylene.

T75: A gas tank container for cryogenic gases, such as nitrogen, oxygen, and argon.

T89: Intermediate bulk container (IBC) for non-hazardous liquids and solids

T96: Portable tank for liquids and gases

T99: Cryogenic ISO tank for carbon dioxide and other gases

There are various types of FlexiTank available for specific types of liquid cargo, here they are:

Top Loading/Discharging FlexiTank: These FlexiTank come with top loading and discharging capabilities, which make them ideal for products that require venting during the filling process.

Bottom Loading/Discharging FlexiTank: These FlexiTank are designed to be loaded and discharged through the bottom valve. This type of FlexiTank is often used for products that require aeration during loading.

Heat Pad FlexiTank: These FlexiTank come equipped with heat pads, which can be used to regulate the temperature of the product being transported. They are commonly used for products that are temperature-sensitive, such as food and pharmaceuticals.

Truck FlexiTank: These FlexiTank are designed to fit into a standard truck container, allowing for easy transportation of liquids by road.

Rail FlexiTank: Similar to truck FlexiTank, these are designed to fit into a standard rail container, making them ideal for transporting liquids by rail.

Reefer FlexiTank: These FlexiTank are designed to be used with refrigerated containers, allowing for the transportation of temperature-sensitive products in a temperature-controlled environment.

Wine FlexiTank: These FlexiTank are designed specifically for the transportation of wine, with features such as a special valve to prevent oxidation and a multi-layer design to protect the wine from light and heat.

Edible Oil FlexiTank: These FlexiTank are designed specifically for the transportation of edible oils, with features such as a food-grade liner and a valve with an anti-leakage mechanism to ensure the product’s safety and quality.

Hazardous Liquid FlexiTank: These FlexiTank are specially designed and tested to transport hazardous liquids such as chemicals and petroleum products in a safe and secure manner, meeting all relevant safety and environmental regulations.

Flexi tanks can also be classified based on the number of layers they have. The most common types are

Single-layer flexi tanks:

These are the simplest and most economical types of flexi tanks, consisting of a single layer of material. They are generally used for non-hazardous liquids and products that do not require high-level protection.

Multi-layer flexi tanks:

These types of flexi tanks have more than one layer, usually with a protective layer in the middle to prevent the liquid from coming into contact with the outer layer. They are ideal for transporting hazardous liquids, food-grade products, and high-value commodities.

Multi-layer FlexiTank are designed to have multiple layers of materials to improve the strength and durability of the tank, and provide extra protection for the cargo inside. The layers are typically made of different materials, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, or nylon, and each layer serves a specific purpose.

For example, the innermost layer of a multi-layer FlexiTank is usually made of food-grade polyethylene or nylon, which is approved for contact with food and helps protect the cargo from contamination. The middle layer may be made of a stronger material, such as woven polypropylene, to provide additional strength and durability, while the outer layer may be made of a protective material, such as polyester, to protect against external factors like UV light or abrasion.

The number of layers in a multi-layer FlexiTank can vary depending on the manufacturer and the requirements of the cargo being transported. Typically, multi-layer FlexiTank can have anywhere from 3 to 6 layers of materials, with each additional layer adding extra strength and protection.

When we say that multi-layer FlexiTank can have anywhere from 3 to 6 layers of materials, we mean that the FlexiTank is made up of multiple layers of different materials that are fused together to create a single unit. The number of layers can vary depending on the manufacturer and the intended use of the FlexiTank.

Each layer of the FlexiTank serves a specific purpose. For example, the outermost layer is typically made of a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) material that provides protection against abrasion, punctures, and UV light. The inner layers are made of food-grade polyethylene or polypropylene materials that are designed to be compatible with the product being transported.

The additional layers in multi-layer FlexiTank can provide extra strength, durability, and protection against leaks or contamination. The number of layers used in the construction of the FlexiTank can affect its cost, weight, and performance characteristics, so manufacturers may choose to use different numbers of layers depending on the requirements of the customer.

When we refer to a FlexiTank as “2+1”, “3+1”, or “4+1”, we are talking about the number of layers of materials that make up the FlexiTank. The first number represents the number of layers of Polyethylene (PE) film, and the second number represents the number of layers of Polypropylene (PP) woven fabric.

For example, a “2+1” FlexiTank has two layers of PE film and one layer of PP woven fabric, while a “3+1” FlexiTank has three layers of PE film and one layer of PP woven fabric. The additional layer of PP woven fabric provides extra strength and protection against punctures and tears.

The “plus one” in these configurations typically refers to an additional layer of barrier film, such as Ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) or Nylon, that is added to prevent the permeation of gases or liquids through the tank walls.

So a “4+1” FlexiTank would have four layers of PE film, one layer of PP woven fabric, and one layer of barrier film, providing even more protection and resistance to damage.

According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) established guidelines, there are certain requirements for the use of FlexiTank to transport hazardous goods by sea. These guidelines include testing and certification requirements for the flexitank and its components, as well as requirements for packing, marking, and labeling of the hazardous material.

Shipping lines and container owners’ association, also have their own regulations and requirements for the use of FlexiTank to transport hazardous goods which in most of the cases is not permitting movement of hazardous material by FlexiTank.

Ultimately, the use of FlexiTank to transport hazardous goods should be considered as NOT PERMITTED and in some cases can be determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account type of cargo as well as all relevant regulations and safety considerations.

In general, using a flexitank can be more cost-effective compared to using an ISO tank for shipping non-hazardous liquids. This is because FlexiTank are lightweight, easy to install and remove, and require less handling equipment compared to ISO tanks. Additionally, since FlexiTank are disposable, there are no costs associated with cleaning or returning the tank, which can be significant for ISO tanks.

However, the cost comparison between FlexiTank and ISO tanks can vary depending on factors such as the type of liquid being transported, the distance of transportation, and the availability of equipment and infrastructure. For hazardous liquids, ISO tanks are typically the preferred option due to their strength and safety features. It is important to carefully evaluate the specific requirements of your shipment and consider all the factors when deciding which type of tank to use for your cargo.

While there are many reputable transport companies that are capable of handling flexi tanks and ISO tanks safely, it is important to do your research and choose a company that has experience and expertise in handling these types of cargo.

It is also important to ensure that the transport company complies with all relevant regulations and has the necessary certifications and licenses to handle hazardous or sensitive cargo. Additionally, you should confirm that the transport company has appropriate insurance coverage to protect your cargo in case of any accidents or incidents during transit.

It is recommended to choose a transport company that has a good reputation in the industry and has positive reviews from previous customers. It is also advisable to communicate your specific requirements and concerns with the transport company and ensure that they have the necessary equipment and resources to handle your cargo safely and efficiently.

It is not recommended to use just ANY transport company to handle flexi tanks or ISO tanks. It is important to carefully choose a reputable and experienced transport company that has proper training and equipment to handle and transport these types of containers safely. Improper handling or transport can lead to damages or leaks, which can be dangerous and costly. It is also important to ensure that the transport company is familiar with and compliant with all relevant regulations and requirements for transporting flexi tanks or ISO tanks.