Short answer: For full-container volumes, flexitanks are usually the cheapest way to ship edible oil. IBCs and drums cost more per litre but suit buyers without pumping or tank-intake equipment, and ISO tanks suit regular, high-volume contracts.
Flexitanks
A flexitank is a single-use bag fitted inside a standard 20-foot container, typically holding up to around 24,000 litres. It is usually the lowest cost per litre because there is no drum or carton cost and the container is used almost fully.
The buyer needs a pump and a tank or vessel to discharge into. Oils that thicken in cool weather, such as palm oil, may need a flexitank with heating pads.
ISO Tanks
An ISO tank is a stainless-steel tank inside a container frame, holding around 21,000 to 26,000 litres. It is reusable and well suited to regular contracts, but tank rental and return logistics add cost.
IBC Totes
An IBC (intermediate bulk container) holds around 1,000 litres and is moved by forklift. It suits factories that use oil steadily but have no bulk tank intake.
Drums
Steel or HDPE drums hold around 200 litres each. They cost more per litre than bulk formats, but suit smaller orders, mixed loads and buyers who repack locally.
Quick Comparison
| Format | Cost per litre | Buyer needs |
|---|---|---|
| Flexitank | Lowest for full loads | Pump and receiving tank |
| ISO tank | Low, plus tank rental | Tank intake; tank return |
| IBC | Medium | Forklift |
| Drums | Higher | Forklift or manual handling |
Key Takeaways for Buyers
- Choose flexitanks when you can take a full container and pump it out.
- Choose IBCs or drums when you need smaller quantities or have no tank intake.
- Always compare quotations on the same packaging format.
This guide gives general trade information, not legal or financial advice. Check terms with your freight forwarder, bank and customs broker.