One of the visitors to this site enquired about IBC expiration date and maximum capacity.

Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) mean rigid or flexible portable packagings which may be Metal IBCs, Flexible IBCs, Rigid plastics IBCs, Composite IBCs, Fibreboard IBCs or Wooden IBCs

IBC may have a maximum capacity

• not more than 3.0 m³ (3,000 litres) for solids and liquids of packing groups II and III;
• not more than 1.5 m³ for solids of packing group I when packed in flexible, rigid plastics, composite, fibreboard or wooden IBCs;
• not more than 3.0 m3 for solids of packing group I when packed in metal IBCs;
• not more than 3.0 m³ for radioactive material of class 7;

Refer to individual entries in IMDG code and respective IBC instructions and provisions for maximum quantity permitted.

Inspection and testing

Every metal, rigid plastics and composite IBC must be inspected

1. before it is put into service

2. at intervals of not more than two and a half years with regard to:

• external condition; and
• proper functioning of service equipment.

3. at intervals not exceeding five years, with regard to:

• conformity to the design type, including marks;
• internal and external condition; and
• proper functioning of service equipment.

Transport after date of expiry

An IBC must not be filled and offered for transport after the date of expiry of the last periodic test or inspection.

Filled before expiry

An IBC filled prior to the date of expiry of the last periodic test or inspection may be transported for a period not to exceed three months beyond the date of expiry of the last periodic test or inspection.

Return after expiry

An IBC may be transported after the date of expiry of the last periodic test or inspection:

1. after emptying but before cleaning, for purposes of performing the required test or inspection prior to refilling; and
2. unless otherwise approved by the competent authority, for a period not to exceed six months beyond the date of expiry of the last periodic test or inspection in order to allow the return of dangerous goods or residues for proper disposal or recycling. Reference to this exemption shall be entered in the transport document.

For full details refer to chapter 6.5 of IMDG Code “Provisions for the construction and testing of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs)”.

Except for salvage operations IBCs must not be filled or discharged while they remain on board ships.