Types of Bitumen Packaging – Complete Guide
A professional guide to bitumen packaging from Iran, including real photos and container loading capacity.
Choosing the right packaging method is essential for cost-effective importation of bitumen. At JANIS Business Group, we offer all standard packaging types used in international trade, optimized for different project sizes and infrastructure levels.
1. Steel Drums (Barrels)
The most widely used packaging for small to medium orders. Ideal for buyers without bulk storage or heating systems.
- Standard Size: 180 kg (~210 L) — Most Common
- Other Sizes: 150 kg, 200 kg
- Material: Galvanized steel with full-open top lid
- Palletized: Yes – 4 drums per pallet (EUR/EPAL size)
- Shrink-Wrapped: For moisture protection
- Best For: Roofing, waterproofing, small paving jobs, remote areas
✅ Advantages: Easy handling, no special equipment needed, ideal for non-industrial sites.
❌ Limitations: Higher cost per ton than bulk; requires labor to open and melt.
2. Jumbo Bags (FIBCs)
Heavy-duty woven polypropylene bags used for mid-volume shipments.
- Common Capacities: 800 kg, 1,000 kg, 1,200 kg
- Palletized: Yes – on wooden pallets (1,000×1,200 mm)
- Top Type: Open-top (for fast melting) or closed with spout
- Shrink-Wrapped: Yes – for moisture protection
- Best For: Medium-sized projects, asphalt plants, developing markets
✅ Advantages: Cost-effective vs. drums; space-efficient; compatible with most melting tanks.
❌ Limitations: Requires cutting and heating setup; not ideal for very cold climates.
3. Flexitank (20-Ton Capacity)
A flexible tank liner installed inside a standard 20ft ISO container. Used for liquid bitumen shipment under heated conditions.
- Capacity: 18–20 MT (depending on density)
- Tank Material: Multi-layer food-grade polymer
- Container Type: 20ft dry container
- Heating Required: Must be kept above 130°C during transit
- Unloading Method: Pumped out via valve at bottom
- Best For: Buyers with storage tanks and heating systems
✅ Advantages: No return cost; high volume per container; clean unloading.
❌ Limitations: Not reusable; requires proper temperature control.
4. Loose / In Bulk
For large-scale importers, bitumen can be shipped in bulk form directly into railway wagons or open vessels.
- Form: Solid slabs or hot liquid
- Port of Loading: Bandar Abbas, Iran
- Minimum Order: 5,000 MT+
- Incoterms: FOB, CIF, CFR
- Best For: Government tenders, highway authorities, asphalt producers
✅ Advantages: Lowest cost per ton; fastest delivery for mega projects.
❌ Limitations: Requires terminal with unloading cranes and storage tanks.
📦 Container Loading Capacity
| Packaging | 20ft (With Pallets) | 20ft (Without Pallets) | 40ft (With Pallets) | 40ft (Without Pallets) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drum (180 kg) | 80 drums (14.4 MT) | 110 drums (19.8 MT) | 137 drums (24.66 MT) | 150 drums (27.0 MT) |
| Jumbo Bag (1,000 kg) | 20 bags (20 MT) | N/A | 24 bags (24 MT) | N/A |
| Jumbo Bag (1,200 kg) | 18 bags (21.6 MT) | N/A | 20 bags (24.0 MT) | N/A |
| Flexitank (20 Ton) | 1 tank (18–20 MT) | N/A | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Bulk (Solid Slabs) | ~24 MT | ~24 MT | ~26 MT | ~26 MT |
Note: Actual capacity may vary based on port weight limits, product density, and container tare weight.
✅ How to Choose the Right Packaging?
Under 200 MT? → Use Drums (180 kg)
200–5,000 MT? → Choose Jumbo Bags (1,000/1,200 kg)
Over 5,000 MT? → Optimize with Flexitank or Bulk
At JANIS Business Group, we help you select the best packaging method based on your project needs, destination port, and available infrastructure.
© 2026 JANIS Business Group. All rights reserved. | This guide is for informational purposes only.