tanktainers

Tanktainers, or ISO tank containers, are standardized freight containers that carry liquids, gases, or powders in bulk. A rigid steel or stainless-steel tank is mounted inside a durable outer frame designed to fit standard intermodal shipping dimensions. The assembly is built for road, rail, and sea transport, enabling transfers between modes without unloading the cargo.

The tank Capacity typically ranges from about 16,000 to 26,000 liters (roughly 16 to 26 cubic meters). Most tanktainers are based on the 20-foot container footprint, with some 40-foot variants available. They can be uninsulated or insulated, and some include heating or cooling systems to maintain product temperature. The internal tank is usually corrosion-resistant and may be lined for compatibility with specific chemicals. Tanktainers are equipped with access fittings such as top manholes, discharge valves, and vents, and many include pressure-relief devices for safety. When used for hazardous materials, they must meet international regulations and be certified for dangerous goods transport.

Applications and operators span a range of industries, including chemicals, petrochemicals, edible oils, wines and other beverages, pharmaceutical ingredients, and specialty chemicals. The intermodal design reduces the need to unload during transfers between ships, trains, and trucks, improving efficiency and reducing contamination risks compared with bulk drums. Cleaning and maintenance are performed in dedicated facilities to ensure product integrity and cross-contamination prevention. Tanktainers are regulated under international standards, notably ISO 1496-3, and, for hazardous cargos, the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, along with regional road and rail rules.