IBC Containers

Store and transport safely, securely and with complete peace of mind with an IBC container from Kingfisher Direct.

Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) offer a highly versatile and efficient solution for storing and transporting large volumes of liquids, fluids, and chemicals. 

Positioned between smaller drums or jerry cans and much larger static storage tanks, standard 1,000-litre IBCs allow businesses to handle significant capacities while remaining easy to manage safely. Their stackable design is ideal for demanding industrial environments and warehouses where maximising storage space is a priority.

At Kingfisher Direct, we supply a comprehensive range of IBC tanks and specialised accessories to suit diverse operational and business requirements:

• New IBC Containers: Manufactured to strict standards, these food-grade containers are ideal for storing drinking water, food ingredients, or chemicals where maximum hygiene and product safety are essential.

• Reconditioned IBC Containers: Offering a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative, these units are professionally washed, inspected, and pressure tested, making them perfect for rainwater harvesting, irrigation, and non-food industrial applications.

• IBC Fittings, Lids and Valve Adapters: Critical for securely sealing container openings to protect integrity, ensuring leak-free connections, and converting standard IBC outlets to commonly used fittings like BSP, Hoselock, or camlock.

• IBC Covers and Heater Jackets and IBC Tippers: Accessories engineered to protect your stored assets or automatically tip the unit toward its outlet as it decants, helping you safely collect nearly every drop of content.

Each container is built for long-term durability and heavy industrial use, consisting of a robust high-density polyethylene (HDPE) inner bottle securely encased in a galvanised steel cage. Mounted on a durable plastic, steel, or timber pallet base, they can be safely stacked and effortlessly transported across your yard or factory floor using a standard forklift or pallet truck.

Whether you are managing chemical storage, agricultural fertilisers, oils, or AdBlue®, our selection ensures your site remains safe and compliant. If you would like expert advice on choosing the correct container or configuration for your facility, please contact us, and our knowledgeable team will help you find what you need, when you need it. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does IBC stand for?

IBC stands for Intermediate Bulk Container. As the name implies, an IBC acts as a versatile middle ground for liquid storage and transport, sitting between smaller alternatives like jerry cans, drums and barrels, and significantly larger static storage tanks. 

What is an IBC?

An IBC is a highly versatile and durable industrial vessel designed for the safe storage and transportation of large volumes of liquids, fluids, and semi-liquids. 

They typically feature a standard 1,000-litre capacity and consist of a robust high-density polyethylene (HDPE) inner bottle securely encased within a protective galvanised steel cage. This entire structure is mounted on a durable plastic, steel, or timber pallet base, allowing the units to be safely stacked to maximise warehouse storage space and safely moved using a standard forklift or pallet truck.

Can you stack full IBC containers? 

Yes, standard 1,000-litre IBC containers feature a stackable design, making them ideal for demanding industrial environments and warehouses where maximising storage space is a priority.

To ensure safety and maximise the lifespan of your IBC containers during storage, it is recommended to store them on level, stable ground. Always follow the manufacturer's guidance and avoid overfilling the containers beyond their recommended capacity.

How to clean IBC containers. 

Cleaning an IBC properly is essential for maintaining safety, preventing cross-contamination, and extending the container's working life, especially if it is being prepared for reuse or reconditioning. The cleaning process involves several key stages to ensure all residues are completely removed:

• Pre-cleaning inspection and emptying: Ensure the container is fully decanted, using accessories like IBC Tippers to safely collect the majority of the remaining content. Use the recommended cleaning agents and safety protocols depending on the previous stored liquid. 

• Washing: Wash the inner bottle using high-pressure water jets and specialised cleaning solutions tailored to neutralise or dissolve the specific chemical or liquid residues previously stored.

• Rinsing and Drying: Thoroughly rinse the interior to remove all traces of cleaning products, followed by complete drying to prevent moisture build-up or bacterial growth.

• Inspection and Testing: Inspect the inner bottle, galvanised steel cage, and pallet base for any signs of structural damage. Reconditioned units must also undergo strict pressure testing to ensure they are completely leak-free before being returned to service.

• Component Replacement: Replace critical components such as IBC Fittings, Lids and Valve Adapters if they show signs of wear, ensuring the container openings can be securely sealed.