Shipping tank container is a type of shipping container designed according to ISO standards to transport and distribute liquids or gases, both hazardous and non-hazardous, in large capacities.
Built with stainless steel and protective outer layers, shipping tanks are engineered for versatile cargo types like chemicals, food-grade liquid, petroleum, gases, and powdered materials.
Tanks are generally available in sizes 20’ and 40’. These two sizes differ in their length dimensions. The difference between the dimensions of the tank container size also affects the storage capacity. For example, the capacity of the ISO Tank Container 40’ is larger than the 20’ one.
For more knowledge about shipping tank containers and their dimensions, read this article until the end!
Contents
ISO Tank Container Specification Size 20’ and 40’
Here are 2 examples of types and sizes of shipping tank containers that you can use as a reference when purchasing:
20’ T14 Tank Container
| Specification | Measurement |
| Length x Width x Height | 20’ x 8’ x 8.6’ |
| Maximum Gross Weight | 79,366 lbs |
| Tare Mass | 7,892 lbs |
| Nominal Capacity | 26,000 L |
| Max Payload | 8,070 lbs |
40’ ISO Tank Container
| Specification | Measurement |
| Length x Width x Height | 40’ x 8’ x 8.6’ |
| Maximum Gross Weight | 85,980 lbs |
| Tare Mass | 12,260 lbs |
| Net Capacity | 73,720 lbs |
Types of ISO Tank Containers
ISO Tank Containers are useful for transporting liquids or gases, both hazardous and non-hazardous. ISO tanks are divided into several types based on the cargo transported. They are:
| ISO Tank Type | The Functions |
| T1 | Wine and light liquid |
| T4 |
|
| T11 | Non-hazardous chemicals |
| T14 | Hazardous chemicals and corrosive acids |
| T50 | Regular gas |
| T75 | Low temperature gas (cryogenic gas) |
| Rubber-Lined Tank | Acid-based chemicals |
| Food Grade Tank | Food products |
| Reefer Tank | Chemical food |
| Gas Tank | All gases at all temperatures |
| Silo | Grains and powders |
Benefits of Using ISO Tank Containers
The use of ISO Tank Containers in transportation provides many benefits. What are the benefits?
1. Cost-saving
ISO Tank Containers excel in their capacity to accommodate 40% more loads than drums. This large carrying capacity minimizes the frequency of trips required to transport loads from one location to another. This automatically saves transportation costs.
In addition, ISO Tanks have a high durability of up to 20 years. That means that long-term use of this transportation facility will be profitable.
2. Safe
ISO Tank Containers are guaranteed to be safe, especially since this type of container has been certified by ISO (International Organization for Standardization). They also feature pressure relief valves, manlids, and protective insulation to prevent leaks, spills, or explosions. So, don’t worry if you want to use ISO Tanks for transporting and sending loads.
3. Environmentally Friendly
ISO Tank Containers also have qualities that can minimize the risk of liquid spills or gas leaks from the tank. By this, pollution due to leaks can automatically be reduced. That is the reason why ISO Tank Containers are environmentally friendly.
Moreover, ISO tanks are reusable for many years, unlike single-use drums or IBC totes. This will reduce packaging waste and minimize environmental impact in supply chains.
4. Flexible
The use of ISO Tank Containers is not limited to transportation alone, but the model also supports them as storage facilities. If transportation is delayed, the load can still be stored safely in the tank.
5. Global Intermodal Compatibility
ISO standard dimensions, especially the 20’ one, allow tanks to be easily transported by ship, rail, and truck without unloading or transferring contents. This is what international shipping needs for delivery across long distances and various terrains.
6. Preserves Product Quality
Shipping tanks are designed to maintain the purity and consistency of contents like food-grade, pharmaceutical, or chemical. To make your tanks more functional, you can also add heating coils, insulation, refrigeration, or steam jackets.
7. Regulatory Compliance
ISO tanks meet international standards for hazardous and non-hazardous goods, including IMDG (International Maritime Dangerous Goods), ADR (European Road Transport), US DOT, TIR, and RID requirements.
8. Easier Cleaning & Maintenance
Tanks can be sterilized and cleaned quickly using steam or automated systems, ensuring fast turnover between loads. With this, you will have less downtime and a lower risk of contamination between uses.
Conclusion
Shipping tank containers are specialized intermodal containers designed for the safe, efficient transport and storage of liquids, gases, and powders in bulk. These containers conform to ISO standards, which ensures compatibility with global transport systems.
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Our experienced staff is ready to help you arrange the shipping of your container to your requested location. Fill out our quote form to buy or rent from us!
