Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container (FIBC)

The flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers, also referred to as, FIBCs bulk bags, jumbo bags, flexible intermediate bulk containers, are now the standard worldwide when it comes to transportation and storage of dry and flowable bulk materials.

They are the most preferred in industries in terms of strength, cost-effectiveness and versatility in sectors like agriculture, chemicals, construction, food processing and mining.

This is a full-fledged guide to history, manufacturing, types, applications, benefits, frequently asked questions, and why Pursuit is one of the reputable companies in the proposed solutions of the FIBC.

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container

History

The introduction of flexible intermediate bulk containers started in the 1940s, and became widely used by industrial application in the 1960s.

FIBCs are woven polypropylene based and thus soon substituted the traditional methods of packaging, such as drums, paper sacks, and rigid IBCs, because of the lightweight, strong, and malleable design.

Manufacturing

The production of modern FIBC is very accurate to provide the product with strength, safety and that it meets international standards.

Raw Material

Woven polypropylene (PP) is mostly used as the material of FIBCs. Good quality PP granules are melted and extrusion is done to create flat tapes.

Tape Extrusion

Polypropylene resin is melted and drawn into tapes and wrapped around bobbins. These are tapes that constitute the main framework of the bulk container.

Weaving

The tapes are woven by the circular or flat weaving machines in order to produce powerful and thick fabric that will sustain weight up to 500 kg to 2000+ kg.

Lamination (if applicable)

Certain flexible intermediate bulk containers are laminated against moisture in order to protect fine powders, chemicals and hygroscopic items – these are frequently used in the storage of hygroscopics.

Cutting and Printing

The branding, safety and handling instructions and the woven fabric are printed to the size.

Sewing and Assembly

Stitched patterns, panels, loops, filling spouts and discharge spouts, make up the entire bag of the FIBC.

Quality Control and Testing

Each FIBC undergoes:

• Load testing
• Drop testing
• UV resistance testing
• Safety factor testing (5:1 or 6:1)
• Anti-static performance testing (for Type B, C, and D FIBCs)

For a full overview of bulk packaging, you can also read our Ultimate Guide to FIBC Bags: Types, Uses, Benefits & Specifications.

What are flexible intermediate bulk containers?

A flexible intermediate bulk container is an industrial bulk bag that is comprised of woven polypropylene, which is used to hold and transport dry, flowable substances such as grains, powders, sand, chemicals, and minerals.

These bags have the capacity to hold a thousand times their weight hence being very efficient.

To know FIBC meaning and full form, check our dedicated guide: FIBC Full Form: Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container (Meaning, Types & Uses Explained).

What is the difference between IBC and FIBC?

Feature	IBC (Rigid)	FIBC (Flexible)
Structure	Hard plastic or metal	Flexible woven polypropylene
Weight	Heavy	Lightweight
Storage	Requires more space	Collapsible & compact
Cost	High	Cost-effective
Applications	Liquids & chemicals	Dry bulk products

What is an intermediate bulk container?

An intermediate bulk container (IBC) is a container with large capacity that is used to store or transport bulk material. These containers are of the flexible type, which are known as FIBEs.

What are the different types of FIBC bags?

FIBCs come in several structural variations:

• U-panel bags
• Circular bags
• 4-panel bags
• Baffled bags
• Single-loop & double-loop bags

Materials Used in FIBCs

• Polypropylene fabric
• Conductive threads (for Type C FIBCs)
• PE liners (for powders or food-grade material)
• UV-stabilizing additives

Types of FIBCs

Below are the industry-standard types:

Here are some common types of FIBCs:

• Type A FIBC
• Type B FIBC
• Type C (Conductive) FIBC
• Type D (Antistatic) FIBC

Flexible intermediate bulk container types

01. Type A flexible intermediate bulk containers (no electrostatic protection)

02. Type B FIBC bulk container bag (Surface breakdown voltage < 6 kV)

03. Type C flexible intermediate bulk container (Grounded & electrically conductive)

04. Type D bulk container bags (CROHMIQ static dissipative or antistatic)

Type D antistatic FIBCs uses:

• Highly combustible powders
• Locations where grounding is impractical

We have covered each bag type in detail here: Types of FIBC Bags: Complete Guide to FIBC Bag Types, Uses & Specifications.

Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers Manufacturers

Pursuit Industries, one of India’s trusted and professionally recognized FIBC manufacturers, brings years of real production experience, advanced polypropylene processing systems, and globally compliant quality standards.

With expertise across Type A, B, C, and D bulk bags, Pursuit ensures consistent strength, safety, and customization for industries like chemicals, agriculture, construction, food processing, and mining.

Our ISO-certified manufacturing environment, rigorous testing, and customer-focused approach make Pursuit a reliable partner for high-performance Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers.

If you want to explore the entire manufacturing process of jumbo bags, check our article: Jumbo Bags (FIBC Bags): Complete Guide, Types, Sizes & Manufacturing.

Benefits of using Pursuit as FIBC manufacturers

• Strict material quality control
• Advanced manufacturing environment
• Food-grade and pharmaceutical compliance
• Ability to customize bulk containers
• Global supply capability
• High durability and strength

For food-safe packaging solutions, refer to our guide: Food-Grade FIBC Manufacturers in India — Complete Guide.

Why Choose Pursuit As Your FIBC Bags Manufacturer?

Pursuit provides highly competitive and sustainable global compliant, flexible solutions to intermediate bulk container, which can be customized and environmentally friendly and sustainable to all industries.

How do flexible intermediate bulk containers compare to other solutions?

Replacing Paper Containers

FIBCs carry tons of product, replacing thousands of paper bags.

Replacing Plastic Carrying Containers

Lighter, safer, and eco-friendly.

Enhancing Shipping Containers

FIBCs maximize container space and reduce product handling.

Replacing or Enhancing Hoppers

Ideal for powders and granules.

Replacing or Enhancing Liquid Loaders

With liners, FIBCs can safely hold liquids.

Replacing or Enhancing Liquid Containers

Reduces cost and improves efficiency.

What Are the 5 Most Common Types of FIBC Bags?

Understanding FIBC Types

Different materials require different construction. The top 5 types include:

Top 5 Different Types of FIBC Bags

1. U-Panel Bulk Bags

Three-panel design with high strength.

2. Circular Bulk Bags

Seamless tubular body — excellent shape retention.

3. 4-Panel Bulk Bags

Offers maximum stability.

4. Baffled Bulk Bags

Perfect for space-saving & shape retention.

5. Single Loop and Double Loop Bags

Used in agriculture and fertilizer industries.

Other Considerations When Choosing a Flexible Bulk Container Type

Top Style

Open top, duffle top, spout top.

Coated vs Uncoated

Coated: prevents moisture.
Uncoated: breathable for agricultural use.

Lift Loops

Single-loop, double-loop, 4-loop.

Static Protection

Choose Type A, B, C, or D based on industry safety needs.

Which Type of Bulk Bag Is Right for You?

Industry-Specific FIBC Bulk Bag Use Cases

Benefits of Pursuit’s FIBC Containers

1. Superior Durability and Strength

Engineered with high-tensile PP fabric.

2. Compliance with Strict Standards

ISO, FSSC, and food-grade certifications.

Every bag is produced under ISO management systems, FSSC food-safety frameworks, and verified food-grade certifications, ensuring reliability for sensitive industries.

3. An Eco-Friendly Solution

Reusable, recyclable, and reduces packaging waste.

4. Versatility Across Different Applications

Suitable for dry, powdered, granular, and semi-flowable products.

Applications in Various Industries

1. Chemical Industry

Static-protected FIBCs for safe handling.

2. Construction

Cement, sand, aggregate transport.

3. Agriculture

Seeds, grains, fertilizers.

4. Food Industry

Food-grade bulk bags with liners.

5. Mining

Ore, minerals, and metal powders.

For detailed industry applications and FIBC solutions, read: Leading FIBC Bags Manufacturer in India — High-Quality Bulk Packaging Solutions.

How to Select the Right Pursuit FIBC Container for Your Industry

• Identify material behavior
• Check for static hazards
• Decide on loop and top/bottom styles
• Confirm environmental requirements

Benefits of FIBC :

Cost-Effective Transportation and Storage

Carries up to 2 tons at minimal cost.

Space Efficiency

Collapsible and stackable.

Customizable

Available in multiple sizes, coatings, and loop styles.

Environmentally Friendly

Reusable and recyclable.

Improved Safety

Reduces manual handling.

Versatility

Suitable for countless applications.

Ease of Handling

Forklift and crane-friendly.

Protection from Contamination

PE liners ensure hygiene.

Global Compliance

Meets ISO, UN, and industry standards.

Reduced Packaging Waste

Less disposal compared to sacks or boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container (FIBC)?

A Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container (FIBC) is a large, woven polypropylene bag designed for storing and transporting dry, flowable bulk materials such as grains, sand, fertilizers, chemicals, powders, and construction materials. It is also known as a bulk bag, jumbo bag, or super sack.

2. What is an Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC)?

An Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) is a rigid, reusable industrial container used for transporting liquids, semi-liquids, chemicals, oils, and other fluid-based materials. Most IBCs are made from HDPE plastic with a protective steel cage.

3. What is the difference between FIBC and IBC?

The principal distinction is the content and use:

• FIBC Flexible, woven polypropylene bag of dry material.
• IBC Rigid tank-like containers are containers of liquids and fluid materials.

FIBCs are able to fold when empty whereas IBCs do not.

4. What are the common sizes of FIBC bags?

FIBC bags are available in large sizes which are custom made, though most common dimensions are:

• 90 × 90 × 110 cm
• 95 × 95 × 125 cm
• 100 × 100 × 120 cm

Capacity ranges from 500 kg to 2000 kg, depending on the bag type.

5. What are the standard sizes of Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC)?

Common IBC tank sizes are:

• 1040 liters (275 gallons)
• 1250 liters (330 gallons)

They are very commonly applied in the field of chemicals, food and industries.

6. What materials are FIBC bags made of?

FIBC bags are made from woven polypropylene (PP) fabric.
They may consist of:

• Coating (lamination)
• Filling/discharge spouts
• Baffles
• Electrostatic protection (Type C / Type D)

7. What industries use FIBC bags?

FIBCs are commonly used in:

• Agriculture
• Chemicals
• Construction
• Food processing
• Mining
• Pharmaceuticals
• Fertilizers
• Plastic resins & powders

8. Are FIBC bags reusable?

Yes, it is possible to use some of the FIBC bags again, however, they should be:

• Multi-purpose (Multi-trip FIBC) certified.
• Handled properly
• Inspected for damage
• Cleaned as per standards

FIBs that have been used single time (one trip) are not reusable.

9. What are the different types of FIBC bags?

10. How much weight can an FIBC bag carry?

11. Can FIBC bags be customized?

12. Why are FIBC bags preferred in industries?

13. What is the lifespan of an FIBC bag?

An average one-time-use FIBC remains in service one cycle of handling, whereas reusable bags can be used in several trips, again, depending on maintenance and environmental factors.

14. Are FIBC bags safe for food products?

15. What certifications are important for FIBC manufacturers?