When it comes to transporting or storing bulk materials, Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs) are one of the most versatile and cost-effective options available. But with so many different types, sizes, and specifications, how do you know which FIBC is right for your specific application?
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing an FIBC—from product type and safety requirements to environmental conditions and handling needs—so you can select the best solution for your operation.
Understand What You’re Storing or Transporting
The first step in choosing the right FIBC is understanding what kind of product it will hold.
Ask yourself:
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Is the product solid, powdery, or granular?
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Is it hazardous, flammable, or static-sensitive?
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Does it need to be protected from moisture or UV light?
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Is contamination a concern?
Different products require different levels of protection, material strength, and bag design.
Factor 1: FIBC Construction Types
There are four common types of FIBCs, each built for different environments and materials:
Type A:
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No electrostatic protection
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Suitable for non-flammable, non-combustible materials
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Should not be used near flammable gases or dust
Type B:
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Same as Type A but includes insulation to prevent sparks
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Safe for dry, flammable powders but not in explosive environments
Type C:
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Made from conductive fabric
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Must be grounded during filling and emptying
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Ideal for flammable environments and static-sensitive materials
Type D:
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Made from anti-static fabric that safely dissipates static without grounding
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Safe for flammable and combustible environments
If you’re not sure which type you need, Western Packaging Solutions can help you choose the safest and most cost-effective option.
Factor 2: Product Weight and Bag Capacity
FIBCs are available in a range of sizes and capacities. Standard sizes hold anywhere from 500 kg to 2,000 kg (1,100 to 4,400 lbs), but customization is also available.
Things to consider:
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Your product’s bulk density (weight per volume)
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How much material you typically move per batch
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Equipment limitations for lifting and transport
Always make sure the FIBC’s Safe Working Load (SWL) exceeds your maximum fill weight.
Factor 3: Filling and Discharging Options
How your FIBC is filled and emptied will also affect the design you need.
Filling Options:
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Open top: Ideal for quick filling by hand or conveyor
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Duffel top: Provides partial closure, good for loose fill
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Spout top: Helps contain dust and controls fill rate
Discharge Options:
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Plain bottom: For cutting open or one-time use
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Spout bottom: Controlled discharge, reusable
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Full drop bottom: For fast and complete emptying
If your operation requires dust control or precision filling, spout tops and bottoms are ideal.
Factor 4: Liners and Coatings
Some products require extra protection from contamination, moisture, or air exposure. Liners and coatings can help.
Common liner materials:
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Polyethylene (PE): Great for moisture-sensitive products
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Aluminum foil: Offers high-level moisture and oxygen barriers
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EVOH: Excellent gas barrier for chemical and food applications
You may also want coated or uncoated outer bags depending on whether you need:
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Moisture protection (coated)
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Breathability (uncoated)
Factor 5: UV Protection and Outdoor Storage
If your FIBCs will be stored outside or exposed to sunlight for extended periods, UV protection is critical.
UV-treated FIBCs help prevent:
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Fabric breakdown and weakening
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Color fading
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Compromised structural integrity
Keep in mind that even UV-protected bags should be stored in covered or shaded areas when possible.
Factor 6: Reusability vs. Single Use
Do you need the bag for one shipment—or do you want it to last for multiple uses?
Single-use bags are cost-effective for short-term or one-way transport.
Reusable bags (usually with a 6:1 Safety Factor Ratio) are ideal for operations that want to reduce costs and waste over time.
Not sure what’s right for your process? Our blog on FIBC reuse breaks down how to safely reuse your bulk bags and when to retire them.
Factor 7: Food-Grade or Pharmaceutical Requirements
If your product is food, feed, or a pharmaceutical-grade material, you’ll need a food-safe or pharma-grade FIBC.
These bags are made in clean-room environments with strict hygiene standards, including:
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FDA and BRC compliance
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ISO-certified facilities
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Traceable batch documentation
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Anti-contamination liners
Choosing a certified bag helps you stay compliant with health regulations and gives your customers peace of mind.
Working With the Right Supplier
At Western Packaging Solutions, we specialize in helping businesses choose and customize FIBCs based on their specific needs. We offer:
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Custom sizes and materials
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Food-grade and anti-static options
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Expert advice on safety, compliance, and reusability
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Fast delivery across North America
Whether you’re shipping chemicals, storing grains, or transporting construction materials, our team can match you with the best FIBC for your application.
Conclusion
Choosing the right FIBC isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision. By considering your product’s weight, composition, safety requirements, and handling conditions, you can find a solution that boosts efficiency, safety, and cost savings.
Ready to find the perfect bulk bag for your needs? Reach out to Western Packaging Solutions today and let us help you streamline your operations with the right packaging solution.
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