ISO Tank Solutions
ISO Tank Containers — the certified intermodal standard for bulk liquid transport, capable of carrying the full range of hazardous and non-hazardous cargo by sea, road, and rail.
What you need to know
What is an ISO tank container? An ISO tank container is a cylindrical stainless steel pressure vessel mounted in a standard 20-foot intermodal frame — built to carry bulk liquids by sea, road, and rail without cargo transfer between modes. The shell is typically SS304, SS316, or SS316Ti, offering broad chemical resistance.
Capacity ranges from 17,500 to 26,000 litres depending on tank type.
Tank types and cargo suitability
Tank type selection is determined by the cargo’s UN number, IMDG classification, and the tank operator’s product approval list. Fides coordinates product compatibility verification with the relevant tank operator prior to any booking.
Tank Type
Designed For
Typical Pressure Rating
Examples
T11
Non-hazardous and low-hazard liquids — bottom discharge permitted
4 bar
Edible oils, non-DG chemicals, lubricants
T14
Hazardous liquids — top discharge only, no bottom openings
4 bar
Strong acids and corrosives, flammable and toxic liquids (IMDG Class 3 / 6.1 / 8)
T22
High-hazard liquids requiring maximum shell integrity
10 bar
Highly reactive chemicals
Cargo Compatibility
ISO tanks are suitable for a wide range of bulk liquid cargo including:
- Industrial and specialty chemicals (including hazardous DG cargoes under the IMDG Code)
- Lubricants, base oils, and mineral oils
- Edible oils and non-hazardous food-grade liquids (subject to tank operator approval)
- Resins, polymers, and adhesives
- Pharmaceutical intermediates and solvents
- Liquid fertilisers and agricultural chemicals
Each cargo must be assessed for compatibility with the tank shell material, valves, and seals. A valid Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS/SDS) is required before any booking confirmation.
Why ISO Tank?
Reusable infrastructure
Hazardous cargo capability
Multi-modal flexibility
Tank owner accountability
Cost efficiency at scale
No single-use waste; tanks are cleaned, tested, and repositioned after each move
The only bulk liquid container certified for the full range of DG cargo under IMDG, ADR, and RID
A single container moves by sea, road, and rail without cargo transfer
The tank operator maintains the asset, bears repair liability, and certifies the equipment — cargo owner works with a certified, professionally managed container
On established corridors, ISO tank rates are highly competitive versus drummed or IBC alternatives — with lower handling costs and less product loss
For non-hazardous cargo where cost and equipment availability are the primary drivers, a flexitank may be the more practical option. → Flexitank Solutions