At FGN Global Logistics, we urge our clients to adopt a holistic TCO perspective to reveal the genuine cost-efficiency of their supply chain. For non-hazardous liquids, this analysis consistently reveals the strategic and financial superiority of flexitank shipping.

The Cost of Empty Container Repositioning and Cleaning

The most significant hidden cost in bulk shipping lies in handling reusable assets: ISO Tanks and Tanker Vessels.

• Reusable Asset Penalty: ISO Tanks and Tanker Vessels require substantial capital investment and must be cleaned and repositioned after every delivery. This means you are constantly paying for the movement of an empty, specialized asset (return freight) and expensive, specialized cleaning to prevent cross-contamination.
• Tanker Logistics Constraint: Large Tanker Vessels are designed for massive volumes (millions of liters) and often require strict two-way trade. If a return cargo (backhaul) isn’t immediately available, the vessel sits idle, generating substantial demurrage that impacts freight costs globally.
• The Flexitank Advantage (TCO Winner): Single-use flexitanks completely eliminate both major burdens. They are disposed of or recycled at the destination, and the 20-foot dry container is immediately available for any cargo (dry or liquid) back to the origin, creating a seamless, cost-free solution for asset repositioning.

Labor, Payload Efficiency, and Operational Simplicity

Flexitanks provide superior efficiency by maximizing payload and simplifying loading procedures compared to unitized or specialized transport.

• The Payload Problem: Shipping in drums or IBCs results in significantly lower net liquid volume per container due to inefficient space utilization, forcing you to book more containers and increase your overall freight spend.
• Complex Loading (Tankers/ISO Tanks): Dedicated assets require specialized marine terminals and intricate pumping procedures, limiting flexibility and increasing port waiting times.
• The Flexitank Solution (TCO Winner): Flexitanks maximize the payload of a standard 20ft container by up to 40% compared to drums. Furthermore, they can be loaded quickly and easily at nearly any facility with standard loading equipment, drastically reducing labor costs and accelerating turnaround time.

Partner with FGN for True Value

A successful bulk liquid supply chain requires looking past the freight quote to calculate the true Total Cost of Ownership. For non-hazardous liquids, flexitanks offer a strategic advantage unmatched by reusable assets or less efficient packaging.

At FGN Global Logistics, we specialize in implementing flexitank solutions that maximize payload, eliminate costly repositioning, and minimize risk, allowing your business to thrive on genuine, long-term efficiency.

Ready to transition your bulk liquid logistics to the TCO-winning solution? Reach out to FGN Global Logistics today for a strategic flexitank consultation.