FIBCs (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers) can be a dependable, lightweight, portable option for many companies wishing to store or transport large amounts of material or goods from one place to another. These bags can be used across a wide range of industries, including agriculture, construction, and mining. But how do you know how much weight your FIBC bag can safely hold and transport? And how do you effectively calculate that weight?
Calculating Your FIBC Bags Weight
These flexible bulk bags generally can carry anywhere from 1,000 pounds of weight to over 4,000 pounds. The bags themselves are reported as weighing only a few kilograms when empty of any contents. So, knowing the weight of your FIBC bag when it is full relies largely on knowing the amount of weight that you will be placing into the bag itself.
Another way to weigh your bulk bags would be if you are using a pallet wrapper since many pallet wrappers are reported to have scales over them which allows for easy weighing of whatever may be in your bag(s). However, if you do not have access to a pallet wrapper or scale, just knowing the weight of what you are putting in should give you a clear picture of how much weight is in your bag.
What Might Affect Your FIBC Bags Weight
Bag capacity is definitely something that can affect the weight of FIBC bags. While some bags are larger and may be able to hold up to (if not more than) 4,000 pounds of weight, they may also have certain features included which could limit or maximize the end weight goal you have in mind for your bags.
One such feature on some bags may be the inlet type for your bag. If the inlet type is one of an open top, your bag may be able to flex a little bit on its capacity which, in turn, would mean possibly a bit more weight allowed. If your bag has lifting loops, this can also play a role in determining the weight/capacity of your bulk bag since the loop ultimately plays a determining part in how large your bag can actually be.
Material Density In Your FIBC Bag
Material density is another factor to keep in mind when loading or filling your bulk bags. Materials with a higher density will mean that you may not be able to fill the bag to its full capacity while still reaching its safe working load (SWL).
On the other hand, lower density materials can most likely be used to fill the bags completely to their rim and still remain within the safe weight limit for the bulk bag you are using. It is always smart to keep in mind the weight limits of the bags you are using and not to expect them to simply be able to be filled to capacity and still transport material in a safe and productive manner. Always obey and respect the safe working load.
Shop Smarter, Not Harder
When shopping for quality FIBCs, you want the best. Here at SHOPTOUGH, we are America’s leader in quality FIBC bags. They offer bags for agricultural needs, construction jobs, and even for disaster relief. They truly can and do outweigh the competition. Please contact our office for more information.
