ISO 15867:2003

Overview

ISO 15867:2003 - Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) for non-dangerous goods - Terminology provides the fundamental vocabulary for IBCs (also called GRV in French) used to transport non-dangerous liquids, pastes and solids. Published in 2003 and developed collaboratively by ISO/TC 122 and CEN/TC 261, this standard clarifies what is meant by an IBC, its key components and basic classifications to ensure consistent communication across design, testing, procurement and regulation.

Key Topics

• Scope and purpose: Terminology for all forms of IBCs intended for non-dangerous goods, covering size, handling and functional characteristics.
• Size limits: Defines an IBC as an intermediate bulk container with a maximum capacity of 3 m³ (3,000 L); notes that very small units (<0.25 m³ / 250 L) are atypical.
• Handling and performance: IBCs are expected to be amenable to mechanical handling and to resist stresses encountered during handling and transport as determined by testing.
• Main types of IBCs:
  • Metallic IBCs - self-supporting bodies of steel or aluminium.
  • Flexible IBCs (GRVS) - made from woven fabric, film or paper; foldable when empty.
  • Rigid plastic IBCs - self-supporting plastic bodies where the container carries distribution stresses (e.g., stacking).
  • Composite IBCs - rigid external structural envelope combined with an internal plastic receptacle that together form a single operational unit.
  • Wood and wood-fibre IBCs - bodies constructed from sawn timber, plywood or wood-fibre materials.
• Internal components:
  • Liners - removable internal tubes or bags inserted into the body.
  • Internal coatings - surface treatments applied inside the container to protect content or container material.

Applications

ISO 15867:2003 is a terminology reference used to:

• Standardize product specifications and procurement documents for IBCs carrying non-hazardous goods.
• Support manufacturers and designers in classifying IBC types during development and testing.
• Help testing laboratories, regulators and conformity assessment bodies interpret test scopes and results.
• Aid logistics, storage and quality teams in specifying suitable packaging for bulk non-dangerous materials.

Who uses this standard

• Packaging manufacturers and designers
• Quality and regulatory compliance teams
• Logistics, warehousing and procurement professionals
• Testing laboratories and certification bodies
• Standards committees and translators

Related standards

ISO 15867 was developed in cooperation with CEN (EN ISO 15867). For practical implementation, users typically refer to complementary ISO and national standards that address IBC design, testing and performance for specific materials and transport regimes.