Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ hub brings together the most common questions we hear, from technical specifications and logistics to sustainability and support. Whether you’re just getting started or looking for in-depth product details, explore the answers or get in touch with our team for further insight.
What does TEC Container Solutions specialise in?
TEC designs and manufactures engineered containers and support equipment for the transport and storage of bitumen, fuel, and speciality liquids. Known for developing the original Bitutainer™, TEC offers a comprehensive range of containerised logistics solutions backed by engineering support and after-sales service.
How long has TEC been operating in the industry?
TEC has over 25 years of experience in the intermodal transport sector. This longstanding presence is built on continuous innovation, especially in the field of bitumen logistics, where TEC’s solutions are now widely adopted as industry standards.
What industries does TEC serve?
TEC’s equipment supports sectors including road construction, oil and gas, petrochemicals, infrastructure development, and industrial engineering. The range is designed to perform in demanding environments, from remote mining sites to large-scale shipping hubs.
Is TEC an international company?
Yes. TEC products are used in over 65 countries, with customers across Europe, Southeast Asia, North America, Africa, and the Middle East. Our tanks are designed to comply with global transport standards, enabling seamless operation across regions.
Where is TEC based?
TEC Container Solutions is headquartered in the United Kingdom, with an international network of clients and projects. While design and engineering are centralised, distribution and support are provided globally.
Does TEC offer support after a product is delivered?
Yes. TEC’s engineering team provides post-sale support, including training, documentation, spare parts supply, and servicing. Learn more about our support services on our Services page.
What materials can TEC containers transport and store?
TEC containers are purpose-built to handle bitumen, fuels, heavy fuel oils, crude oil, PMBs, emulsions, and a range of specialist liquids. Each tank is designed around the physical and thermal properties of the specific material to ensure safe, efficient handling.
How do TEC containers maintain heat during transport and storage?
Our bitumen and fuel containers feature high-performance insulation and integrated heating systems, such as coil heaters or heating tubes. These systems maintain optimal temperature during transit and support rapid reheating when required. Learn more about heating options in this blog post.
What certifications do TEC containers comply with?
Depending on the model, TEC tanks are certified to meet ADR/RID, IMDG, and ISO standards for intermodal transport. This enables safe movement of hazardous materials by road, rail, and sea. Not all containers meet every certification, so our team will advise based on your operation’s specific requirements.
What’s the difference between single-walled and double-walled containers?
Double-walled containers, which TEC specialises in, offer enhanced safety and thermal efficiency by encasing the product tank in a protective outer shell. This design supports better temperature retention and protects the internal tank from impact. Explore more in our comparison blog.
Can TEC containers be stacked or stored efficiently on site?
Yes. TEC’s transport tanks, including our bitumen and fuel models, are stackable up to 192,000 kg when empty. This reduces on-site storage space requirements and offers flexibility for container yards or mobile operations.
Are TEC containers compatible with global intermodal logistics systems?
Absolutely. All TEC tanks are designed in standard ISO 20ft or 40ft frames, ensuring they integrate seamlessly into existing shipping and transport systems, whether by truck, rail, or vessel.
What is the expected lifespan of a TEC container?
With proper maintenance, TEC containers offer long-term operational performance, often exceeding 15 years in active service. Their robust design and modular components allow for repairs and upgrades to extend usable life.
What types of ancillary equipment does TEC offer?
TEC supplies a full range of equipment to support bulk bitumen and fuel operations, including loading and unloading systems, pump sets, heating equipment, valves, hoses, and spare parts for all TEC container models.
Is the ancillary equipment compatible with all TEC tanks?
Yes. All equipment is either built into our tank design or fully compatible with TEC’s product range. We ensure seamless integration for heating, unloading, and monitoring across our transport and storage containers.
Can I purchase spare parts for an older TEC tank?
Absolutely. We offer spares packages and individual replacement parts for all models. Whether it’s valves, gaskets, heaters, or temperature gauges, our team can advise on exact-fit replacements.
What heating options are available for TEC tanks?
We offer both Direct Fire Burners and Electrical Element Heater Sets as efficient heating solutions for our containers. Each system is tailored to maintain or restore the correct material temperature with minimal energy use. Tank heating is also fully customisable to your needs, ensuring seamless integration into your logistics operations.
Do you supply pump systems for unloading bitumen or fuels?
Yes. We offer high-performance bitumen-grade pump systems that are compatible with our tanks. These support efficient, safe discharge operations on-site or during mobile unloading.
What are the benefits of using TEC’s loading and unloading systems?
Our systems are designed to minimise downtime and reduce residue. With features like low-level sump valves, discharge pipelines, and rapid-connect couplings, we help optimise on-site workflows and minimise product loss.
Can I purchase heating or unloading equipment separately from the tanks?
Yes, all ancillary equipment is available as standalone units, ideal for customers upgrading existing tanks or expanding their current operation.
What makes TEC’s ancillary equipment different from generic alternatives?
Unlike standard off-the-shelf parts, our equipment is designed specifically for bitumen, fuel, and hazardous liquid handling. Everything is engineered to meet the extreme conditions and temperatures these materials require.
Can TEC containers be shipped globally?
Yes. All TEC tanks are built to standard intermodal dimensions, making them suitable for seamless transport across road, rail, and sea. We regularly ship to markets across Asia, the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Oceania.
How are the containers delivered to site?
Containers are shipped either fully assembled or with minor on-site setup requirements. Our logistics team will coordinate delivery to your nearest port or location and provide documentation for local handling and customs clearance.
Do you offer support with on-site installation or integration?
Yes. We provide technical documentation and remote support to assist with integrating your tank into existing operations. For more complex setups, we can arrange for engineer-led consultations to ensure a seamless transition.
What’s included in the logistics support TEC provides?
From container loading/unloading advice to temperature control during transit, our logistics support ensures safe, efficient movement of your product. We can assist with custom routing, port handling, and ongoing shipping coordination.
Can TEC help with customs or export documentation?
Yes. Our experienced team can prepare or guide you through the necessary export certificates, inspection records, and material declarations to keep your shipments compliant and avoid delays.
What happens if a container is delayed in transit?
We support clients with ongoing shipment tracking and contingency planning. Our team is available to help with rerouting, documentation extensions, or working with port agents where delays occur.
What training or handover support is available?
We can provide onboarding materials and remote walkthroughs for your operations team. If needed, we’ll arrange custom training packages to support specific use cases or teams working with TEC equipment for the first time.
How are TEC’s containers designed to reduce environmental impact?
Our bitumen containers are engineered for longevity, reusability, and energy efficiency, from double-walled insulation that reduces heat loss to durable materials that extend lifespan and minimise replacement cycles.
Do TEC containers support low-emission logistics strategies?
Yes. Our intermodal designs optimise transport by road, rail, and sea, helping clients reduce emissions per tonne moved. We also support bulk shipping, which dramatically lowers emissions compared to drums or flexibags.
Does TEC offer guidance on sustainable bitumen transport practices?
Absolutely. We regularly publish articles on energy efficiency, emission reduction, and circular infrastructure practices in bitumen logistics. Explore our Information Hub for the latest insight.
Is TEC investing in future-proof tank designs?
Yes. Our R&D team is focused on continuous innovation, from temperature optimisation to smart monitoring integrations, ensuring our tanks evolve with shifting environmental standards and industry needs.
What role does TEC play in shaping sustainability standards in bitumen logistics?
As the original creators of the Bitutainer™, we work closely with industry stakeholders to help define modern benchmarks for safe, efficient, and sustainable containerised bitumen logistics.
How is TEC supporting carbon offsetting initiatives?
TEC partners with Trees4Travel to offset the carbon footprint . This initiative actively reduces our carbon footprint by measuring the greenhouse gas emissions from business travel, converting trips into trees, and supporting reforestation and renewable energy projects worldwide.
What after-sales support is available once my tank is delivered?
TEC offers comprehensive after-sales support, including spare part supply, remote technical advice, documentation, and engineering consultation, helping you get the most from your equipment long after delivery.
Can TEC supply spare parts for older or custom tank models?
Yes. Our team can supply spare parts for both legacy and bespoke units. We hold key components in stock and can advise on compatibility and timelines for dispatch.
What happens if I experience an issue with my tank in operation?
Simply contact our team. We’ll work quickly to understand the issue and either resolve it remotely or provide technical assistance where required
Does TEC offer maintenance guidance or training for on-site teams?
Yes. We offer guidance on best-practice maintenance procedures and can provide on-site training sessions or documentation to help your team stay confident in the equipment.
Is there ongoing technical support available after installation?
Absolutely. We’re available to assist with questions regarding usage, performance, and compliance throughout the tank’s lifecycle, not just at the point of sale.
Still have a question?
If you couldn’t find the answer you were looking for, our team is here to help. Submit your enquiry using the form and one of our experts will be in touch within 24 hours to provide guidance or technical insight tailored to your needs.
