Disadvantages of Flexitanks

Shippers are always looking for new options for transporting their cargo overseas. One type of container that is used in ocean freight shipping is the flexitank. Essentially, a flexitank is a special type of transportation shipment for bulk non-hazardous liquid. A traditional 20-foot container surrounds the liquid capacity. Some shippers approach their freight forwarder, with information about using a flexitank. These shippers see the flexitank as a possible less expensive alternative to a traditional 20” container.

There are some advantages of using a flexitank when shipping. However, these shippers do not see the cons of this method. There are numerous disadvantages to shipping with a flexitank. If there is a leak or breakage to the flexitank, this almost always results in a total loss for the shipper. Carriers will not allow a flexitank to be filled to capacity because of the strain it places on the walls of the container. Shippers cannot use a flexitank for any dangerous or hazardous goods. Pumps are going to be required for the flexitank. And there are environmental risks involved with using a flexitank. Financially, a shipper would have to determine how much volume is required in order to see a payoff for shipping with a flexitank.

The next time you receive a rate for shipping freight with a container, be glad that a traditional container has less risk and fewer disadvantages of a flexitank. A logistics provider can help you determine the best container that can be used for shipping your product overseas.