Types of FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container) and How to Choose the Right One

Overview

Selecting the right FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container) is one of the most practical decisions a business handling bulk materials will make. The correct bag improves safety, efficiency, and product quality. This article walks through the common FIBC types and explains how to choose one that fits your needs.

Classification by safety type

One of the first distinctions buyers encounter is FIBC safety types, which relate to electrostatic behavior and are critical when handling flammable dusts or powders

• Type A: Made from non-conductive materials and not designed to dissipate static charge. Suitable for non-flammable products in non-hazardous environments.
• Type B: Has a limited ability to dissipate static but cannot prevent propagating brush discharges. Rare and less commonly used.
• Type C: Uses conductive yarns or linings that create a continuous conductive path, requiring bonding/earthing during handling. Common where static control is necessary and bonding is feasible.
• Type D: Uses static dissipative materials that safely reduce charges without needing grounding. Preferred where bonding isn't practical but electrostatic hazards exist.

Top and bottom closure options

Choice of top and bottom affects filling, discharge control, dust containment, and stacking

• Tops: Open top for quick access; duffle top for added dust protection; spout top for controlled filling; flap top to protect contents from moisture.
• Bottoms: Flat bottom for stability; spout bottom for precise discharge into hoppers or containers; discharge panels to speed emptying; discharge closures with clips or ties for flow control.

Construction and reinforcement

FIBCs vary in their weave, fabric weight, and reinforcement. Heavy-duty fabrics and cross-corner seams increase load capacity. Lift loop designs (four-panel, cross-corner, or full-body) affect how the load distributes when lifted. Baffle FIBCs include internal panels to maintain square shape and improve stacking efficiency.

Liners and coatings

Liners dramatically expand FIBC usefulness. A sealed PE liner can protect hygroscopic or food-grade products from moisture, while vented liners are used for products that need air circulation. Coatings on the exterior can reduce dusting or improve abrasion resistance. For food, pharmaceutical, or sensitive chemical applications, look for FDA-compliant liners and clean-room manufacturing practices.

Regulatory and quality certifications

Many industries require specific certifications

• UN certification: Required when transporting dangerous goods. UN-tested FIBCs meet strict performance standards for stacking, lifting, and impact.
• Food-grade certification: Ensures materials and manufacturing avoid contamination risks and meet regulatory standards.
• ISO and manufacturer quality marks: Indicate consistent production and traceability, useful for supply chain assurance.

Specialized designs

Beyond the general categories, some FIBCs are built for niche needs

• Ventilated or breathable FIBCs: Used for fresh produce to allow airflow and reduce spoilage.
• Coated or laminated bags: For very fine powders or abrasive materials to reduce particle escape and increase abrasion resistance.
• Double-walled or multi-wall FIBCs: Offer extra protection and can be useful when contamination risk is high.
• Super sack or jumbo bag: Marketing terms often used interchangeably with FIBC, but they can signify larger capacities or specific features.

How to choose the right FIBC: practical checklist

Choosing an appropriate FIBC requires combining product knowledge with handling realities. Use this checklist:

1. Know your product: Is it free-flowing, dusty, hygroscopic, abrasive, fine, or food-grade? This guides liner and fabric choices.
2. Determine required capacity and dimensions: Consider pallet sizes and handling equipment. Standard bags might be more economical than bespoke dimensions.
3. Assess static risk: If the product forms explosive dust clouds or is flammable, choose Type C or D FIBCs with appropriate grounding or dissipative properties.
4. Consider filling and discharge needs: If you require controlled dosing, spout tops and bottoms may be vital.
5. Check regulatory requirements: UN certification for hazardous materials, food-grade certifications where applicable.
6. Account for environmental exposure: For outdoor storage, choose UV-stabilized materials and consider moisture protection.
7. Decide on reuse vs single-use: Reusable bags often require durable fabrics and certified cleaning if returning through supply chains.

Real-world example

A fertilizer company shipping product to farms chooses a UV-stabilized, baffle FIBC with a spout bottom and PE liner. The UV protection allows outdoor staging, baffles keep bags square for pallet stacking, the spout bottom helps farmers pour fertilizer directly into spreaders, and the liner reduces moisture pickup. For a chemical that is potentially explosive in powdered form, the same company might instead select a Type D static-dissipative FIBC with a spout top and earthing procedures during transfer.

Conclusion



There is no one-size-fits-all FIBC. By matching product properties, handling methods, safety requirements, and regulatory needs to the bag's construction and features, you can select an FIBC that minimizes cost while maximizing safety and performance. For complex or hazardous products, consult suppliers and safety experts to ensure compliance and optimal operational results.