What Is Bulk vs. Non-Bulk Packaging in Chemical Manufacturing?

Nov 25, 2021
what is bulk vs non bulk packaging

Packaging for chemical manufacturing is vital to all chemical warehousing companies that specialise in large quantities of chemicals and products. It is especially important for warehouse companies that deal with dangerous goods and hazardous materials – such as those used in the chemical manufacturing process. If you're transporting vast amounts of goods and arranging for the appropriate packaging, developing safety measures under bulk packing standards are crucial. By following the proper steps and understanding the difference between bulk and non-bulk packaging, you can ensure that your products are packaged safely and shipped securely.

Why Do We Package Chemicals?

Packaging chemicals and products for bulk transportation is a critical part of the chemical manufacturing process. There are several reasons why companies package their chemicals, including:


  • For transporting the product to and from warehouses
  • For transporting goods between facilities or organisations
  • To support selling any size/quantity order
  • Packaging products in larger containers cuts down on transportation costs
  • Meeting safety protocols for hazardous waste transportation
  • For safe and proper dangerous goods distribution and chemical storage

What Is Bulk-Packaging?

Bulk packaging is a term used to describe the process of shipping goods in large quantities (in containers over 119 gallons). These containers are much larger than the average ones used in chemical manufacturing and have a net mass of over 882 pounds. Bulk packaging is a more efficient chemical warehousing solution to ship heavy objects because it requires less handling of individual units, reducing the risk of damage.

What Is Non-Bulk Packaging?

Non-bulk packaging is the term used to describe transporting and storing of chemicals in containers of 119 gallons or less. Companies opt for non-bulk packaging when shipping chemicals in smaller quantities so there is less risk of damage or spillage of the product during distribution. Non-bulk packaging may seem like an easier task, but it does have its own set of requirements.

What Are the Requirements for Chemical Packaging?

Packaging your chemicals correctly (and safely) is extremely important. This can be a complicated process depending on the type of chemical you're dealing with. Each chemical has its own requirements for packaging, so you'll need to check with your supplier or manufacturer before making any decisions. A few things that are commonly listed as requirements include:


  • Packing groups
  • Container type
  • Labelling requirements for chemicals shipped in bulk
  • Safety measures and hazards

What Are the Requirements for Chemical Shipments?

If you're shipping chemicals in bulk, there are also several requirements you'll need to follow to comply with packaging standards. These regulations involve:


  • The contents of each container
  • The net weight of the packaged contents
  • The gross weight and tare mass (if applicable)
  • The UN Identification Number (for hazardous materials)

What Are the Requirements for Labelling Chemicals?

Whether you're shipping chemicals in bulk or non-bulk packaging, it's important to label your goods properly. Labelling requirements vary depending on the type of chemical you're dealing with, but there are a few standards that apply to all chemicals, including:



  • Listing the proper name of the chemical formulation
  • Providing the name and address of the manufacturer or supplier
  • Including any special storage conditions, such as temperature requirements
  • Incorporating a signal word, such as "danger," which indicates the degree of hazard
  • Providing an indication if it is a flammable or combustible liquid
  • Labelling the date the chemical was packaged



By following the right warehousing solution steps and understanding the difference between bulk and non-bulk packaging, you can ensure that your products are packaged safely and shipped securely with the proper chemical supply chain management solutions. For all your supply chain management needs, contact the DGL Group for trusted and expert services.

 

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