Shipping regulated liquids in IBCs
Plain-English orientation to the shipper's duties under 49 CFR. Not legal advice — a map of what you need to have established before a regulated liquid goes into a container and onto a truck.
Ask about a specific container's status
Send the UN marking or a photo of the plate and we will tell you what the unit is marked for and what tests it has on record.
Tell us what you have.
We will tell you what it is worth.
Buying, selling, washing, hauling or recycling — one form covers all of it. Replies come from a specialist in York, PA, by email, inside one business day.
Prefer plain email? Write to info@ibctotesreco.com — include your ZIP, quantity and what the totes last held.
To ship a hazardous material in an IBC you must establish, as the shipper: that the material is properly classified; that the container is an authorised packaging for that material and packing group; that its UN marking is valid and legible; that its periodic inspection and leakproofness test are current under 49 CFR 180.352; that filling limits are respected; that marking, labelling and papers are correct; and that your hazmat employees are trained under 172 Subpart H. The container supplier can evidence the middle items. The duty is yours.
Who is the shipper, and why it matters
In the regulatory sense the shipper is whoever offers the material for transportation. That is almost always you — the person filling the container — not your carrier and not the company that sold you the container. The practical consequence is that no amount of assurance from a supplier transfers the obligation. What a good supplier can do is make your job evidenceable: tell you the design type, show you the marking, and hand over the test records. What they cannot do is decide for you that a given packaging suits a given material.
The seven things to establish, in order
Classify the material properly
Proper shipping name, hazard class and division, identification number and packing group. This comes from the hazardous materials table in 49 CFR 172.101 read against your product's actual composition, not from a trade name. Everything downstream depends on getting this right, and getting it wrong invalidates every subsequent decision.
Confirm the packaging is authorised for it
The packaging authorisations in 49 CFR 173 state which packagings may be used for each entry. An IBC is not automatically acceptable for every liquid: some entries exclude IBCs, some restrict them by capacity, and some require specific design types. Read the authorisation for your entry rather than assuming.
Read the marking and match the design type
A composite IBC for liquids is marked 31-series — for example 31HA1 for a plastic inner receptacle in a steel outer. The packing group letter matters: X covers PG I, II and III; Y covers II and III; Z covers III only. A Y-marked container cannot be used for a PG I material. Our decoder page walks through every element of the plate.
Check the periodic test and inspection dates
49 CFR 180.352 requires an external visual inspection at least every 2.5 years and a leakproofness test plus full inspection at least every 5 years, with records retained and available. A container whose interval has lapsed is not authorised until it has been re-tested, however sound it is.
Respect the filling limits
Filling limits are prescribed and account for thermal expansion. For liquids this generally means leaving ullage so that the container is not completely full at the highest temperature it will see in transit. Brim-filling is both a violation and the cause of most hydraulic deformation we see on inbound containers.
Mark, label and document the shipment
Proper shipping name and identification number on the package, correct hazard labels, orientation and handling markings where required, and shipping papers with the required description sequence and emergency response information. For IBCs the markings are large and the surface is textured — use the right media or they will not survive the trip.
Train your people and keep the records
Anyone who classifies, packages, marks, labels, loads or offers hazardous materials is a hazmat employee under 49 CFR 172 Subpart H and requires general awareness, function-specific, safety, security awareness and driver training as applicable — with records and recurrent training at least every three years. This is the single most commonly missing piece in smaller operations.
The parts of 49 CFR you will actually open
Bookmark these five and you have covered most of the ground.
| Reference | Subject | Why you need it |
|---|---|---|
| 49 CFR 172.101 | Hazardous materials table | Classification and the authorised packaging reference |
| 49 CFR 172 Subpart H | Training | Who must be trained, in what, how often, with records |
| 49 CFR 173 | Shippers — general requirements by class | Whether an IBC is authorised for your entry |
| 49 CFR 178 Subpart N | IBC design types, testing and marking | What the plate means and how it was earned |
| 49 CFR 180.352 | Periodic inspection, testing, repair & remanufacture | The 2.5-year and 5-year intervals |
| 40 CFR 261.7 | RCRA empty containers | When a container counts as empty for disposal purposes |
| 29 CFR 1910.1200 | Hazard communication | Workplace labelling and SDS obligations |
Six mistakes that produce violations
In rough order of how often we hear about them.
| Mistake | Consequence |
|---|---|
| No training records for hazmat employees | The easiest violation for an inspector to find |
| Lapsed 2.5-year or 5-year periodic test | Container not authorised, shipment non-compliant |
| Y-marked container used for a PG I material | Packaging not authorised for the material |
| Illegible marking treated as acceptable | No evidence of authorisation at all |
| Brim-filled liquid with no ullage | Violation plus hydraulic deformation in transit |
| 11-series (solids) container used for a liquid | Wrong design type entirely |
| Markings applied with unsuitable media | Illegible on arrival; failed inspection |
| Assuming the supplier carries the duty | The duty is the shipper's, always |
Hazmat shipping FAQ
Can I ship hazardous materials in a used IBC tote?
Yes, provided the container is an authorised packaging for your specific material and packing group, carries a valid and legible UN marking, and has a current periodic inspection and leakproofness test on record. The responsibility for establishing all of that sits with the shipper — the person offering the material for transport — not with the container supplier.
How often must an IBC be inspected and tested?
Under 49 CFR 180.352, an IBC used for hazardous materials requires an external visual inspection at least every 2.5 years, and a leakproofness test together with a full internal and external inspection at least every 5 years. Records must be kept and made available. Dates run from the date of manufacture or the most recent qualifying test.
Who is responsible if the packaging turns out not to be authorised?
The shipper. The regulations place the duty to select and use an authorised packaging on the person who offers the material for transportation. A supplier can tell you what the container is marked as and what tests it has passed — and we do, on every quote — but the selection decision and its consequences are yours.
Does a reconditioned tote lose its authorisation?
Not if it is reconditioned properly. A registered reconditioner restores the packaging and applies its own marking alongside the original design-type marking, showing the reconditioner's code and the date. What does destroy authorisation is an illegible or missing marking, a lapsed periodic test, or a repair that changes the design type without re-qualification.
What about filling limits?
They are prescribed rather than discretionary. Filling limits in 49 CFR take account of thermal expansion and the material's properties, and for liquids they generally require ullage so the container is not completely full at the maximum temperature it will encounter. Brim-filling a tote with a regulated liquid is a violation as well as a bad idea.
Do I need training?
Yes. Hazmat employees — which includes anyone who prepares, loads, or offers hazardous materials for transport — require training under 49 CFR 172 Subpart H, with records, and recurrent training at least every three years. This is the requirement most often overlooked by smaller shippers, and it is the easiest one for an inspector to check.
This page is orientation, not legal advice, and the regulations change. Verify against the current text of 49 CFR and your own counsel or consultant. What we commit to is telling you exactly what a container is marked as and what tests it has on record — see certifications and compliance.
Related pages
Eighteen references, and who each one binds
Bookmark the five you will actually open. The rest are here so you know they exist before somebody cites one at you.
| Reference | Title | What it covers | Who it binds |
|---|---|---|---|
| 49 CFR 172.101 | Hazardous materials table | Classification and authorised packaging reference | Shippers |
| 49 CFR 172 Subpart H | Training | Who must be trained, in what, how often, with records | Any hazmat employer |
| 49 CFR 173 | Shippers — general requirements by class | Whether an IBC is authorised for your entry | Shippers |
| 49 CFR 178 Subpart N | IBC design types, testing and marking | What the plate means and how it was earned | Makers, reconditioners |
| 49 CFR 180.352 | Periodic inspection, testing, repair & remanufacture | 2.5-year visual, 5-year leakproofness + full inspection | Owners, shippers |
| 40 CFR 261.7 | RCRA empty containers | When a container counts as empty; P-list triple rinse | Generators |
| 40 CFR 262 | Generator standards | Waste determination, manifesting, accumulation | Generators |
| 21 CFR 177.1520 | Olefin polymers | HDPE compliance for food contact | Food users |
| 21 CFR 177.2600 | Rubber articles for repeated use | Gasket and seal compliance for food contact | Food users |
| 21 CFR 110 / 117 | Good manufacturing practice | Handling, storage, sanitation programmes | Food users |
| NSF/ANSI 61 | Drinking water system components | Potable-contact material evaluation | Water utilities |
| 29 CFR 1910.1200 | Hazard communication | Workplace labelling and safety data sheets | Everyone |
| 29 CFR 1910.146 | Permit-required confined spaces | Entry into tanks and vessels | Anyone cleaning containers |
| 29 CFR 1910.178 | Powered industrial trucks | Forklift operation and certification | Yards and docks |
| ANSI/ITSDF B56.1 | Low-lift and high-lift trucks | Capacity ratings and load centres | Yards and docks |
| ANSI MH16.1 | Steel storage racking | Beam capacity, deflection, inspection | Warehouses |
| PA Title 25 Ch. 95 | Wastewater treatment requirements | Industrial discharge standards in Pennsylvania | Wash lines |
| ISPM-15 | Wood packaging in international trade | Heat treatment and marking of timber pallets | Exporters |
The seven things to establish, as a checklist
Each one depends on the one before it. Getting the first wrong invalidates everything downstream.
- Classify the material properly. Proper shipping name, hazard class and division, identification number and packing group, from 49 CFR 172.101 read against your actual composition.
- Confirm the packaging is authorised for it. The authorisations in 49 CFR 173 state which packagings may be used for each entry; some exclude IBCs entirely.
- Read the marking and match the design type. 31-series for liquids; the packing group letter X, Y or Z has to cover your material.
- Check the periodic test and inspection dates. 2.5-year visual, 5-year leakproofness plus full inspection, with records retained and available.
- Respect the filling limits. Prescribed rather than discretionary, and they account for thermal expansion. Brim-filling is a violation.
- Mark, label and document the shipment. Proper shipping name, ID number, hazard labels, orientation markings, and shipping papers with emergency response information.
- Train your people and keep the records. General awareness, function-specific, safety and security awareness training as applicable, recurrent at least every three years.
Formats and the design types they carry
| Format | Nominal | Usable | L × W × H | Tare (steel base) | Gross, water | Outlet | Stack filled | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 275 gal standard | 275 gal / 1,041 L | 265 gal | 48 × 40 × 46" | 137 lb | 2,347 lb | 2" S60x6 | 2 high | Ex-stock |
| 275 gal tall | 275 gal / 1,041 L | 264 gal | 48 × 40 × 53" | 141 lb | 2,342 lb | 2" S60x6 | 2 high | Regular |
| 330 gal standard | 330 gal / 1,249 L | 320 gal | 48 × 40 × 53" | 165 lb | 2,834 lb | 2" S60x6 | 2 high | Ex-stock |
| 350 gal | 350 gal / 1,325 L | 338 gal | 48 × 40 × 58" | 172 lb | 2,991 lb | 2" or 3" | 2 high | Occasional |
| 400 gal | 400 gal / 1,514 L | 386 gal | 48 × 46 × 60" | 198 lb | 3,417 lb | 3" buttress | 1 high | Order |
| 550 gal | 550 gal / 2,082 L | 532 gal | 48 × 48 × 72" | 251 lb | 4,688 lb | 3" buttress | 1 high | Occasional |
| 120 gal mini | 120 gal / 454 L | 115 gal | 32 × 32 × 36" | 71 lb | 1,030 lb | 2" S60x6 | 2 high | Occasional |
| 180 gal | 180 gal / 681 L | 174 gal | 40 × 40 × 42" | 98 lb | 1,549 lb | 2" S60x6 | 2 high | Order |
| Stainless 265 gal | 265 gal / 1,003 L | 258 gal | 48 × 40 × 50" | 285 lb | 2,436 lb | 2" tri-clamp | 2 high | Occasional |
| Stainless 330 gal | 330 gal / 1,249 L | 322 gal | 48 × 40 × 56" | 330 lb | 3,015 lb | 2" tri-clamp | 2 high | Occasional |
| Stainless 400 gal | 400 gal / 1,514 L | 390 gal | 48 × 46 × 62" | 385 lb | 3,637 lb | 3" tri-clamp | 1 high | Order |
| Stainless 500 gal | 500 gal / 1,893 L | 488 gal | 48 × 48 × 68" | 430 lb | 4,600 lb | 3" tri-clamp | 1 high | Order |
Filled weights against maximum gross mass
| Product | SG | 275 gal filled | 330 gal filled | 550 gal filled |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acetone | 0.79 | 1,883 lb | 2,273 lb | 3,756 lb |
| Ethanol | 0.79 | 1,883 lb | 2,273 lb | 3,756 lb |
| Kerosene | 0.81 | 1,927 lb | 2,327 lb | 3,845 lb |
| Citrus terpene oil | 0.84 | 1,993 lb | 2,407 lb | 3,978 lb |
| Diesel fuel | 0.85 | 2,016 lb | 2,433 lb | 4,022 lb |
| Mineral oil, hydraulic | 0.88 | 2,082 lb | 2,514 lb | 4,155 lb |
| Biodiesel B100 | 0.88 | 2,082 lb | 2,514 lb | 4,155 lb |
| Concrete release agent | 0.89 | 2,104 lb | 2,540 lb | 4,200 lb |
| Gear oil | 0.90 | 2,126 lb | 2,567 lb | 4,244 lb |
| Canola oil | 0.91 | 2,148 lb | 2,594 lb | 4,289 lb |
| Soybean / olive oil | 0.92 | 2,170 lb | 2,620 lb | 4,333 lb |
| Flavour concentrate | 0.95 | 2,237 lb | 2,700 lb | 4,466 lb |
| Amine corrosion inhibitor | 0.98 | 2,303 lb | 2,780 lb | 4,599 lb |
| Water | 1.00 | 2,347 lb | 2,834 lb | 4,688 lb |
| Antifoam emulsion | 1.00 | 2,347 lb | 2,834 lb | 4,688 lb |
| Quaternary sanitiser | 1.01 | 2,369 lb | 2,860 lb | 4,732 lb |
| Asphalt emulsion | 1.01 | 2,369 lb | 2,860 lb | 4,732 lb |
| Maple sap | 1.02 | 2,391 lb | 2,887 lb | 4,777 lb |
| Non-ionic surfactant | 1.03 | 2,413 lb | 2,914 lb | 4,821 lb |
| Milk / dairy intermediate | 1.03 | 2,413 lb | 2,914 lb | 4,821 lb |
| Car wash soap concentrate | 1.04 | 2,436 lb | 2,941 lb | 4,865 lb |
| Propylene glycol | 1.04 | 2,436 lb | 2,941 lb | 4,865 lb |
| Anionic surfactant | 1.05 | 2,458 lb | 2,967 lb | 4,910 lb |
| Apple cider | 1.05 | 2,458 lb | 2,967 lb | 4,910 lb |
| Spent grain slurry | 1.05 | 2,458 lb | 2,967 lb | 4,910 lb |
| Laundry detergent | 1.06 | 2,480 lb | 2,994 lb | 4,954 lb |
| Flexographic ink | 1.08 | 2,524 lb | 3,047 lb | 5,043 lb |
| Wine / must | 1.08 | 2,524 lb | 3,047 lb | 5,043 lb |
| Acrylic adhesive emulsion | 1.08 | 2,524 lb | 3,047 lb | 5,043 lb |
| Urea solution (DEF) | 1.09 | 2,546 lb | 3,074 lb | 5,087 lb |
| Alkaline degreaser | 1.10 | 2,568 lb | 3,101 lb | 5,132 lb |
| Humic acid | 1.10 | 2,568 lb | 3,101 lb | 5,132 lb |
| Tomato paste | 1.10 | 2,568 lb | 3,101 lb | 5,132 lb |
| Ethylene glycol | 1.11 | 2,590 lb | 3,127 lb | 5,176 lb |
| Peracetic acid sanitiser | 1.12 | 2,612 lb | 3,154 lb | 5,220 lb |
| Fruit purée | 1.12 | 2,612 lb | 3,154 lb | 5,220 lb |
| Hydrogen peroxide 35% | 1.13 | 2,634 lb | 3,181 lb | 5,265 lb |
| Acid descaler | 1.14 | 2,657 lb | 3,207 lb | 5,309 lb |
| Hydrochloric acid 31% | 1.16 | 2,701 lb | 3,261 lb | 5,398 lb |
| Glyphosate concentrate | 1.17 | 2,723 lb | 3,287 lb | 5,442 lb |
| Brine 23% / soy sauce | 1.20 | 2,789 lb | 3,368 lb | 5,575 lb |
| Sodium hypochlorite 12% | 1.21 | 2,811 lb | 3,394 lb | 5,620 lb |
| Phosphate coating | 1.22 | 2,833 lb | 3,421 lb | 5,664 lb |
| Pigment dispersion | 1.25 | 2,900 lb | 3,501 lb | 5,797 lb |
| Nickel plating solution | 1.25 | 2,900 lb | 3,501 lb | 5,797 lb |
| Foliar micronutrient | 1.25 | 2,900 lb | 3,501 lb | 5,797 lb |
| Glycerine | 1.26 | 2,922 lb | 3,528 lb | 5,841 lb |
| Sulphuric acid 35% | 1.26 | 2,922 lb | 3,528 lb | 5,841 lb |
| Sodium hydroxide 25% | 1.27 | 2,944 lb | 3,554 lb | 5,886 lb |
| UAN 28 | 1.28 | 2,966 lb | 3,581 lb | 5,930 lb |
| Potassium acetate de-icer | 1.28 | 2,966 lb | 3,581 lb | 5,930 lb |
| Latex paint | 1.30 | 3,010 lb | 3,634 lb | 6,019 lb |
| UAN 32 fertiliser | 1.32 | 3,054 lb | 3,688 lb | 6,108 lb |
| Magnesium chloride de-icer | 1.32 | 3,054 lb | 3,688 lb | 6,108 lb |
| Liquid sugar / maple syrup | 1.33 | 3,076 lb | 3,715 lb | 6,152 lb |
| Ammonium thiosulphate | 1.33 | 3,076 lb | 3,715 lb | 6,152 lb |
| Aluminium sulphate | 1.33 | 3,076 lb | 3,715 lb | 6,152 lb |
| Juice concentrate (70 Bx) | 1.35 | 3,121 lb | 3,768 lb | 6,241 lb |
| Polyaluminium chloride | 1.35 | 3,121 lb | 3,768 lb | 6,241 lb |
| Liquid starter 10-34-0 | 1.38 | 3,187 lb | 3,848 lb | 6,374 lb |
| High-fructose corn syrup | 1.38 | 3,187 lb | 3,848 lb | 6,374 lb |
| Calcium chloride brine | 1.38 | 3,187 lb | 3,848 lb | 6,374 lb |
| Sodium silicate | 1.39 | 3,209 lb | 3,875 lb | 6,418 lb |
| Molasses / honey | 1.42 | 3,275 lb | 3,955 lb | 6,551 lb |
| Ferric chloride 40% | 1.42 | 3,275 lb | 3,955 lb | 6,551 lb |
| Calcium nitrate solution | 1.43 | 3,297 lb | 3,981 lb | 6,596 lb |
| Potassium hydroxide 45% | 1.46 | 3,364 lb | 4,061 lb | 6,729 lb |
| Potassium thiosulphate | 1.47 | 3,386 lb | 4,088 lb | 6,773 lb |
| Sodium hydroxide 50% | 1.52 | 3,496 lb | 4,222 lb | 6,995 lb |
| Phosphoric acid 75% | 1.58 | 3,629 lb | 4,382 lb | 7,261 lb |
| Sulphuric acid 93% | 1.83 | 4,181 lb | 5,049 lb | 8,370 lb |
Prior products and which can be shipped regulated
| Prior product | Family | SG | Programme | Best grade | Food? | Seal | What to watch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple juice concentrate (70 Bx) | Food & beverage | 1.35 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Best inbound stock we see; sugars rinse clean |
| Orange juice concentrate | Food & beverage | 1.33 | PF | A | Yes | FDA Viton | Citrus oil fraction can scent the bottle |
| Grape juice concentrate | Food & beverage | 1.34 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Watch for tartrate scale at the outlet |
| Liquid sugar / sucrose syrup | Food & beverage | 1.33 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Hot rinse only, no caustic needed |
| High-fructose corn syrup | Food & beverage | 1.38 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Viscous; 3" outlet helps decanting |
| Molasses | Food & beverage | 1.42 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Heated rinse; heavy heel |
| Honey | Food & beverage | 1.42 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Crystallises; heater jacket recommended |
| Maple sap | Food & beverage | 1.02 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Benign but sugars feed biofilm fast |
| Maple syrup | Food & beverage | 1.33 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Hot rinse; inspect lid seat |
| Apple cider | Food & beverage | 1.05 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Vented lid essential — ferments |
| Wine / must | Food & beverage | 1.08 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Tartrate scale; usually leased |
| Beer / wort | Food & beverage | 1.05 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Stainless preferred for repeat service |
| Brine (pickling liquor) | Food & beverage | 1.20 | PF | A | Yes | FDA Viton | Check cage for chloride attack |
| Vinegar, 10% | Food & beverage | 1.01 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Easy; acid-resistant seal needed |
| Soy sauce | Food & beverage | 1.20 | PF | A | Yes | FDA Viton | Salt plus colour; monitor ghosting |
| Edible soybean oil | Food & beverage | 0.92 | P2 | A | Yes | FDA Viton | 140°F minimum or fat re-deposits |
| Edible canola oil | Food & beverage | 0.91 | P2 | A | Yes | FDA Viton | As above |
| Olive oil | Food & beverage | 0.92 | P2 | A | Yes | FDA Viton | Polyphenols can tint the wall |
| Glycerine, USP | Food & beverage | 1.26 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Often effectively first-use stock |
| Propylene glycol, food grade | Food & beverage | 1.04 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Frequently single-product filler stock |
| Liquid egg | Food & beverage | 1.04 | PF | A | Case by case | FDA EPDM | Protein film needs verification |
| Milk / dairy intermediate | Food & beverage | 1.03 | PF | A | Case by case | FDA EPDM | Allergen changeover record required |
| Whey concentrate | Food & beverage | 1.06 | PF | A | Case by case | FDA EPDM | Protein scale; hot detergent |
| Tomato paste | Food & beverage | 1.10 | PF | A | Yes | FDA Viton | Acidic; stains but rinses |
| Fruit purée | Food & beverage | 1.12 | PF | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Pulp load; coarse settling matters |
| Flavour concentrate / essence | Food & beverage | 0.95 | Refused | Rebottle | No | PTFE | Permeates HDPE permanently — use stainless |
| Citrus terpene oil | Food & beverage | 0.84 | Refused | Recycle | Never | PTFE | One batch ends a poly bottle's usefulness |
| Spent grain slurry | Food & beverage | 1.05 | P2 | B | No | EPDM | By-product duty; 3" outlet strongly advised |
| Yeast slurry | Food & beverage | 1.08 | P2 | B | Case by case | EPDM | Vent — active fermentation |
| UAN 32 liquid nitrogen | Agricultural | 1.32 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Rinses readily; dense — check ratings |
| UAN 28 | Agricultural | 1.28 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | As above |
| Liquid starter 10-34-0 | Agricultural | 1.38 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Polyphosphate scale at the outlet |
| Ammonium thiosulphate | Agricultural | 1.33 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Sulphur odour persists faintly |
| Potassium thiosulphate | Agricultural | 1.47 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Very dense; 275 format only |
| Calcium nitrate solution | Agricultural | 1.43 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Crystallises when cold |
| Humic / fulvic acid | Agricultural | 1.10 | P2 | B | Never | EPDM | Dark staining, usually washes out |
| Fish hydrolysate fertiliser | Agricultural | 1.12 | P3 | C | Never | Viton | Odour frequently permanent |
| Foliar micronutrient blend | Agricultural | 1.25 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Metal salts can tint the wall |
| Glyphosate concentrate | Agricultural | 1.17 | P3 | C | Never | Viton | Labelled rinse programme governs |
| 2,4-D amine concentrate | Agricultural | 1.19 | Refused | Per label | Never | Viton | Label prescribes rinse-and-destroy |
| Crop oil adjuvant | Agricultural | 0.88 | P3 | C | Never | Viton | Attacks EPDM; permeates slowly |
| Surfactant adjuvant (NIS) | Agricultural | 1.03 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Foams heavily on transfer |
| Molluscicide suspension | Agricultural | 1.22 | Refused | Per label | Never | Viton | Refused — labelled destruction |
| Livestock drinking water | Water & inert | 1.00 | P1 | A | Yes | EPDM | Effectively first-use |
| Irrigation water | Water & inert | 1.00 | P1 | A | Yes | EPDM | May carry silt; coarse settling |
| Sodium hydroxide 50% | Industrial chemistry | 1.52 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | 3,497 lb filled — check every rating |
| Sodium hydroxide 25% | Industrial chemistry | 1.27 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Easy wash; dilute and drain |
| Potassium hydroxide 45% | Industrial chemistry | 1.46 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | As NaOH; dense |
| Sulphuric acid 93% | Industrial chemistry | 1.83 | Refused | Dedicated | Never | PTFE | 4,182 lb filled; dedicated service only |
| Sulphuric acid 35% | Industrial chemistry | 1.26 | P1 | C | Never | PTFE | Fume attack on cage galvanising |
| Hydrochloric acid 31% | Industrial chemistry | 1.16 | P1 | C | Never | PTFE | Cage usually the limiting factor |
| Phosphoric acid 75% | Industrial chemistry | 1.58 | P1 | B | Never | PTFE | Dense; viscous at low temperature |
| Nitric acid 42% | Industrial chemistry | 1.26 | Refused | Dedicated | Never | PTFE | Oxidiser — embrittles HDPE |
| Hydrogen peroxide 35% | Industrial chemistry | 1.13 | P1 | B | Case by case | PTFE | Vent; absolutely no contaminants |
| Sodium hypochlorite 12% | Industrial chemistry | 1.21 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Degasses; vent and shield from UV |
| Ferric chloride 40% | Industrial chemistry | 1.42 | P2 | C | Never | Viton | Heavy orange staining is permanent |
| Aluminium sulphate | Industrial chemistry | 1.33 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Scale at the outlet boss |
| Polyaluminium chloride | Industrial chemistry | 1.35 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Gels if allowed to dry out |
| Propylene glycol coolant | Industrial chemistry | 1.04 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Ideal duty; nothing to watch |
| Ethylene glycol | Industrial chemistry | 1.11 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Toxic — never re-grade for potable |
| Calcium chloride brine 32% | Industrial chemistry | 1.38 | P1 | B | Never | Viton | Chloride attack on lower cage |
| Magnesium chloride de-icer | Industrial chemistry | 1.32 | P1 | B | Never | Viton | As above; rinse frames each spring |
| Potassium acetate de-icer | Industrial chemistry | 1.28 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Benign; airport runway chemistry |
| Urea solution (DEF) | Industrial chemistry | 1.09 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Purity-critical next fill; usually dedicated |
| Nickel plating solution | Industrial chemistry | 1.25 | Refused | Recycle | Never | Viton | Metal-bearing; never re-used |
| Chromic acid solution | Refused | 1.30 | Refused | Refused | Never | PTFE | Not accepted at the gate |
| Cyanide plating bath | Refused | 1.15 | Refused | Refused | Never | PTFE | Acutely hazardous — licensed facility only |
| Phosphate conversion coating | Industrial chemistry | 1.22 | P2 | C | Never | Viton | Scale and staining |
| Amine corrosion inhibitor | Industrial chemistry | 0.98 | P2 | B | Never | Viton | Fish-like odour can persist |
| Sodium silicate | Industrial chemistry | 1.39 | P3 | C | Never | EPDM | Sets hard if dried; wash promptly |
| Polymer flocculant emulsion | Industrial chemistry | 1.02 | P3 | C | Never | EPDM | Extremely slippery; gels with water |
| Sodium bisulphite | Industrial chemistry | 1.33 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Sulphur odour; vent |
| Antifoam silicone emulsion | Industrial chemistry | 1.00 | P3 | C | Never | Viton | Film is very hard to remove |
| Latex paint, white | Coatings & inks | 1.30 | P3 | C | Never | EPDM | Heavy ghosting; often rebottle |
| Latex paint, tinted | Coatings & inks | 1.32 | P3 | C | Never | EPDM | Pigment ghosting permanent |
| Water-based pigment dispersion | Coatings & inks | 1.25 | P3 | C | Never | EPDM | Strong colour transfer into the wall |
| Flexographic ink | Coatings & inks | 1.08 | P3 | Rebottle | Never | Viton | Resin binder plasticises the surface |
| UV-curable coating | Coatings & inks | 1.10 | Refused | Recycle | Never | PTFE | Cures in the bottle; not washable |
| Acrylic adhesive emulsion | Coatings & inks | 1.08 | P3 | Rebottle | Never | EPDM | Caustic at 180°F, often still ghosts |
| PVA wood adhesive | Coatings & inks | 1.09 | P3 | C | Never | EPDM | Wash before it skins over |
| Polyurethane resin, 2-part | Coatings & inks | 1.12 | Refused | Recycle | Never | PTFE | Cross-linked; nothing shifts it |
| Asphalt emulsion | Coatings & inks | 1.01 | P3 | C | Never | Viton | Hot caustic plus long dwell |
| Concrete release agent | Coatings & inks | 0.89 | P2 | C | Never | Viton | Oily film; 140°F detergent |
| Mineral oil, hydraulic | Oils & fuels | 0.88 | P3 | B | Never | Viton | Permeation; faint odour often remains |
| Cutting fluid, soluble | Oils & fuels | 0.92 | P3 | B | Never | Viton | Bacterial odour is the real problem |
| Gear oil | Oils & fuels | 0.90 | P3 | C | Never | Viton | Heavy film; two cycles common |
| Used motor oil | Refused | 0.89 | Refused | Recycle | Never | Viton | Waste stream — not accepted for reuse |
| Diesel fuel | Oils & fuels | 0.85 | Refused | Recycle | Never | Viton | Permanent odour; bottle compromised |
| Kerosene | Oils & fuels | 0.81 | Refused | Recycle | Never | Viton | As diesel |
| Biodiesel B100 | Oils & fuels | 0.88 | P3 | C | Never | Viton | Solvency attacks some HDPE grades |
| Vegetable-based lubricant | Oils & fuels | 0.92 | P2 | B | Never | Viton | Oxidises to a varnish if left |
| Anionic surfactant concentrate | Cleaning & sanitation | 1.05 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | It is soap — rinses, but foams |
| Non-ionic surfactant | Cleaning & sanitation | 1.03 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Easy wash |
| Alkaline degreaser | Cleaning & sanitation | 1.10 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Compatible with our own loop |
| Acid descaler | Cleaning & sanitation | 1.14 | P1 | B | Never | PTFE | Segregate heel from caustic tanks |
| Quaternary ammonium sanitiser | Cleaning & sanitation | 1.01 | P1 | B | Case by case | EPDM | Residual actives need verification |
| Peracetic acid sanitiser | Cleaning & sanitation | 1.12 | P1 | B | Case by case | PTFE | Oxidiser; vent and shield |
| Hand sanitiser (ethanol 70%) | Cleaning & sanitation | 0.87 | P1 | B | Case by case | Viton | Alcohol flashes off; little residue |
| Laundry detergent, liquid | Cleaning & sanitation | 1.06 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Optical brighteners can tint |
| Car wash soap concentrate | Cleaning & sanitation | 1.04 | P1 | B | Never | EPDM | Very common inbound stock |
| Floor finish / wax emulsion | Cleaning & sanitation | 1.02 | P3 | C | Never | EPDM | Films hard; wash before it dries |
| Potable water | Water & inert | 1.00 | P1 | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Frequently first-use stock |
| Deionised water | Water & inert | 1.00 | P1 | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | Best-value first-use source |
| Distilled water | Water & inert | 1.00 | P1 | A | Yes | FDA EPDM | As above |
| Glycerine, technical | Water & inert | 1.26 | P1 | B | No | EPDM | Technical grade is not food grade |
| Saline solution, industrial | Water & inert | 1.07 | P1 | B | Never | Viton | Chloride; inspect cage |
| Unknown or mixed residue | Refused | — | Refused | Refused | Never | — | Safety assessment, not a grading question |
| RCRA P-listed residue | Refused | — | Refused | Refused | Never | — | Licensed treatment facility only |
| Radiological material | Refused | — | Refused | Refused | Never | — | No testing, no discussion |
| Pesticide, labelled destruction | Refused | — | Refused | Refused | Never | — | Service life ended by regulation |
Documents we can supply towards your file
| Document | What it contains | When you get it |
|---|---|---|
| Written quotation | Unit price by grade, freight as its own line, validity, and the conditions that would change it | Before you order |
| Grade certificate | Assigned grade against our published definitions, per unit serial | With the order |
| Leak & pressure test record | Test pressure, hold time, outcome, per serial | With the order |
| Hydrostatic test certificate | 100% of food-line units, recorded against serial | Food-grade orders |
| Prior-contents declaration | Named last product, generating site, signature | Anything we collected |
| Wash programme record | Bay, programme, temperature, chemistry, cycle time | Reconditioned & contract work |
| Rinse verification | Final-rinse pH and conductivity | Reconditioned & contract work |
| Component specification | Valve, gasket, lid materials with compliance references | Food-grade orders |
| Photograph set | The actual units on the rack before loading | Every order |
| Weight ticket | Certified-scale gross weight and count | Collections and cleanouts |
| Diversion certificate | Unit counts, weights by stream, destination routes, dates | End-of-life batches |
| Certificate of insurance | GL, auto, cargo, workers' comp; additional insured | Before a crew arrives |
| Reconditioner marking detail | Code, date, design type | Re-marked units |
| Lease schedule | Count, grade, dates, weekly rate, return condition, replacement charge | Leases |
Seal selection for regulated service
| Medium | EPDM | Viton (FKM) | Silicone | PTFE | We would fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water, potable & process | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | EPDM |
| Dilute acids (<10%) | Good | Excellent | Fair | Excellent | EPDM |
| Concentrated acids | Poor | Good | Poor | Excellent | PTFE |
| Caustic soda, alkalis | Excellent | Fair | Fair | Excellent | EPDM |
| Liquid fertiliser, UAN | Excellent | Good | Fair | Excellent | EPDM |
| Glycols, coolants, de-icer | Excellent | Good | Good | Excellent | EPDM |
| Surfactants, detergents | Excellent | Good | Good | Excellent | EPDM |
| Edible oils, fats | Poor | Excellent | Poor | Excellent | Viton |
| Mineral oils | Poor | Excellent | Poor | Excellent | Viton |
| Aromatic solvents | Poor | Excellent | Poor | Excellent | Viton |
| Chlorinated solvents | Poor | Good | Poor | Excellent | Viton / PTFE |
| Ketones (acetone, MEK) | Fair | Poor | Poor | Excellent | PTFE |
| Alcohols | Good | Good | Good | Excellent | EPDM |
| Fuels, diesel, kerosene | Poor | Excellent | Poor | Excellent | Viton |
| Juice & syrup concentrate | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | FDA EPDM |
| Brine, pickling liquor | Good | Excellent | Fair | Excellent | Viton |
| Hot fill 140–180°F | Fair | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Viton / silicone |
| Hydrogen peroxide (dilute) | Good | Fair | Fair | Excellent | EPDM / PTFE |
| Sodium hypochlorite | Good | Good | Fair | Excellent | EPDM |
| Steam / CIP chemistry | Excellent | Fair | Good | Excellent | EPDM |
| Outdoor weathering & ozone | Excellent | Good | Excellent | Excellent | EPDM |