If you are looking into the use of an ISO tank container, there are a range of factors you need to consider, including their capacity. You can use ISO tanks to transport a range of liquids and they have plenty of advantages that could benefit you. So, read on to find out more about the uses, specifications and capacity of standardised ISO task containers.
dimensions
When it comes to standard ISO tanks, the specifications for the cylindrical pressure vessel surrounded by steel framework are usually 20′ x 8′ x 8.6′. If you are transporting either hazardous or non-hazardous liquids in large quantities, then these are the standard international dimensions that you can expect an ISO tank to be.
Capacity
The capacity of the tank can vary depending on your needs, but you will find most standard size tanks have a capacity of around 21,000 litres to 27,000 litres. If you need greater capacities, choose a tank that has a longer length which extends past the normal frame – these are referred to as Swap Bodies, which can provide capacities of 29,000 – 35,000 litres.
| Capacity | Gross Weight | Tare Weight | Payload | Max. Cargo Temp | Test Pressure | Working Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21,000L | 36,000kg | 3,650kg | 32,350kg | 120⁰C | 6.00 BAR | 4.00 BAR |
| 24,000L | 36,000kg | 3,900kg | 32,100kg | 120⁰C | 6.00 BAR | 4.00 BAR |
| 25,000L | 36,000kg | 3,730kg | 32,270kg | 120⁰C | 6.00 BAR | 4.00 BAR |
| 26,000L | 36,000kg | 4,060kg | 31,940kg | 120⁰C | 6.00 BAR | 4.00 BAR |
Uses
ISO tanks are a great option due to their versatility. They can be used to carry a wide range of loads, including alcohol, various food items, hydrogen peroxide, mining chemicals, nitric acid and oils.
| Container type | Ideal usage |
|---|---|
| T1 ISO tank container | Wine and light liquids |
| T4 ISO tank container | Non-hazardous edible and non-edible oils |
| T11 ISO tank container | Non-hazardous chemicals |
| T14 ISO tank container | Hazardous chemicals and acids like HCI and zinc chloride |
| T50 ISO tank container | Gasses such as LPG and ammonia |
| T75 ISO tank container | Cryogenic gasses |
| Rubber-lined ISO tank container | Acid-based chemicals |
| Food-grade tank | Only loaded with food grade products |
| Reefer tank | Ideal for food and chemicals |
| Gas tank | Suitable for the transport of gasses |
| Silo | Suitable for transport of grains and powders |
| SWAP container tank | Transport of cargo between 26,000 and 35,000 metric tons, 25,600 and 31,500 long tons and 28,700 and 35,000 short tons |
| SWAP body tank | This container type is bigger than its frame, ideal for lightweight cargo and storage use |
Advantages
There are many advantages of using ISO tanks. From cost-savings to improved versatility, take a look at the benefits below:
1. Cost effective
For every 20ft shipping space, ISO tanks can hold over 40% more product than drums or similar methods of transportation. This results in much higher quantities of product transported at once, which in turn cuts down on the number of journeys required, saving on transportation costs.
ISO tanks are also durable and reliable, allowing them to last for up to 20 years, avoiding the need to buy replacements for the warranty’s lifetime.
2. Increased Safety
ISO tanks are globally approved for transportation and storage, and our Bitutainers™ have in-built crash protection and structural reinforcements to help mitigate risk of damage in the event of an accident. These features protect not only the tank and the product, but the safety operator too.
3. Environmentally Friendly
ISO tanks have the added benefit of reduced carbon footprint – approximately 50% less than other bitumen transportation solutions for some long-haul routes. The double-walled design of the Bitutainer™ also reduces risks of spills which can cause environmental damage. Overall, ISO tanks can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 70%.
4. Increased Flexibility
Finally, ISO tanks are intermodal which allows them to be transported by whichever route is the most convenient – road, rail or sea are all viable options. If there is any kind of delay during transportation, ISO tanks can simply stay in storage until the delay is resolved, with no impact on the internal product. This makes ISO tanks one of the most versatile options for a wide range of products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ISO tank container?
An ISO tank container is a stainless-steel cylindrical pressure vessel mounted in a standardised 20ft frame, built to ISO 1496/3. The inner vessel is typically 316L stainless steel to ASME VIII Div 1. ISO tanks transport bulk liquids; fuels, biofuel, HFO, chemicals and food-grade products, across road, rail and sea. They are not used for hot bitumen; see the Bitutainer™.
What size and capacity does an ISO tank container hold?
ISO tanks come in a standardised 20ft frame (6.06m long, 2.44m wide, 2.59m high). Standard ISO tanks carry 21,000 to 27,000 litres; swap-body variants extend the tank beyond the frame to carry up to 35,000 litres. TEC’s most common ISO tank holds 24,000–26,000 litres. Capacity choice depends on cargo density, route restrictions and weight limits.
What's the difference between T11, T14 and T22 ISO tanks?
T-codes classify ISO tanks by test pressure, shell thickness and venting setup. T11 tanks carry non-hazardous and low-toxicity chemicals at moderate pressure, TEC’s most common spec. T14 tanks handle corrosive and hazardous substances. T22 tanks are designed for high-pressure cargoes. Each T-code must match the intended cargo class; mismatch invalidates certification.
Can an ISO tank container carry hot bitumen?
No. Standard ISO tanks are rated to 130°C and lack the integrated heating systems and insulation needed to maintain bitumen at its 150–180°C working temperature. Hot bitumen requires TEC’s Bitutainer™, a purpose-built bitumen container with double-walled insulation, hot-bitumen valves and ADR/RID and IMDG certification (variant-dependent). The Bitutainer™ delivers up to 20% more capacity than a comparable ISO tank.
How long does an ISO tank container last?
A well-maintained ISO tank container lasts 20 to 25 years in active service. The 316L stainless steel inner vessel resists corrosion across a wide range of cargoes, and the 20ft frame is rated for thousands of stack-and-lift cycles. Periodic inspection and recertification under ISO and IMDG schedules, typically every 2.5 or 5 years, extends operational life further.
For any more questions or information on ISO tanks, make sure to get in touch with us at TEC Container Solutions. Our friendly team would be happy to help, so make sure to contact us today!