A Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container (FIBC) — also known as bulk bags, is a large, durable industrial container made from flexible woven fabric. These containers are specifically designed for the storage and transport of dry, flowable materials such as sand, fertiliser, and plastic granules.

Bulk bags are not restricted to a standard size; they come in a variety of shapes, styles, and dimensions most commonly cubic. Industries often require custom designs tailored to their specific handling and storage needs.

The cost of bulk bags can vary depending on several factors, including design specifications, features, and custom requirements. At TerraBulk, we’re happy to discuss your needs and provide a free, no-obligation quote. Pricing is also influenced by order quantity. The more you order, the more cost-effective the price per unit becomes.

Lift loops are strong, woven polypropylene straps attached to the corners or sides of bulk bags, allowing them to be lifted safely using a forklift. Bulk bags are typically available with 1, 2, or 4 lift loops. In Australia, the most commonly used type is the 4-loop FIBC bulk bag, offering stability and ease of handling during transport and storage.

Baffles are internal fabric panels sewn into the corners of a bulk bag to help it retain a square or cube shape after filling. These panels have openings that allow the contents to flow evenly while preventing the bag from bulging outward. This design enables the bag to stand upright and maximises space efficiency during storage and transport.

It is recommended to store FIBCs in a covered, sheltered area to protect them from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions, which can degrade the fabric over time.

Yes, all of our bulk bags are UV treated. During the manufacturing process, a UV stabilising additive is incorporated into the fabric to protect the bags and their contents from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This treatment helps extend the lifespan of the bags when exposed to sunlight.

AS3668 is an Australian safety standard for Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs), tested and certified by independent laboratories. Known for its strict safety regulations, Australia upholds high standards in industrial packaging. The AS3668 standard was officially approved by the Council of Standards Australia on 10 January 1989 and published on 21 July 1989.

When materials move or rub against each other inside a bulk bag, static electricity can build up. To manage this risk, FIBCs are classified into four types based on their static protection:

• Type A: Made from plain-woven polypropylene and other non-conductive fabrics, Type A bags offer no static protection and should only be used for non-flammable products in non-combustible environments.

• Type B: Also made from non-conductive materials, Type B bags have a low breakdown voltage, which helps reduce the risk of dangerous brush discharges. However, they are not classified as anti-static and should not be used in flammable or explosive atmospheres.

• Type C: Constructed from non-conductive fabrics interwoven with conductive threads in a grid pattern, Type C bags must be grounded during filling and emptying. Proper grounding allows safe use in environments where flammable gases or dust are present.

• Type D: Made from antistatic fabrics, Type D bags are designed to safely dissipate static electricity without the need for grounding. They prevent sparks, brush discharges, and multiple brush discharges, making them suitable for use in combustible environments.