An increasing number of shippers recognise the perceived benefits of shipping their bulk liquid cargoes in flexitanks. The demand continues to grow globally, with the consequence that manufacturing and use proliferate.

In essence a flexitank is a large single use bladder with valves designed to fit inside a general purpose freight
container. The flexitank operates as part of a system which includes the container, flexitank, its fittings and
restraining system.

While there are potential advantages, the use of flexitanks as a form of packaging to contain and transport liquids does introduce additional considerations and risks at various stages of the supply chain. This StopLoss seeks to identify the applicable risks, highlight good practice and provide practical risk mitigation guidance for those in the supply chain who procure, fit, pack, unpack and handle cargoes being shipped in flexitanks.