Everything you need to know about Big Bags

Big Bag or FIBC (Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container) are now widely used in the construction sector as well as in the industry. Its use is particularly appreciated for storage and transportation of various materials. It is also highly valued for handling various waste materials such as asbestos, construction materials, wood, sand, etc. Its use is even more valuable as this woven bag greatly facilitates the handling of all these products. Hesitating to take the leap? OTEXIO tells you all about Big Bags. Function, price, models, usage, reuse, and good handling practices: this bag is designed to adapt to the activity of your business, whatever it may be. From the type of filling to drainage, whether compatible or not with specific content: you will find on our website the Big Bag that will simplify your daily routine and that of your employees.

What is a Big Bag or FIBC?

A Big Bag or FIBC is actually a flexible container in the form of a bag designed to hold dry matter. Known as a Flexible Intermediate Bulk Container (FIBC) in English-speaking countries, it is made of a specific textile called polypropylene. On average, the capacity of a Big Bag is about a thousand liters. Offering great strength and sometimes reusability, this bag is equipped with straps compatible with the use of a forklift to facilitate its handling. The Big Bag is even used for heliporting to supply areas inaccessible by road. Economical and practical, it is found in various fields of activity. On construction sites, it is appreciated for debris removal. In the industry, it is widely used in the agricultural and agri-food sectors. To better meet the needs of these professionals, there are different filling and evacuation systems.

What are the prices of Big Bags?

On average, the price of a single-use Big Bag ranges between €5 and €15. The price varies depending on the dimensions of the bag, its storage capacity, its filling and drainage systems, and its intended use. The prices of reusable devices are around €140. Of course, the more you order a significant number of bags, the more the unit price tends to decrease.

The different models of Big Bags

Here are the different existing models of Big Bags. Adapted to many types of activities, they offer various functionalities.

The classic Big Bag

This is the most marketed FIBC in the world and the least expensive. It consists of 3 pieces of fabric. One is U-shaped, and the other two are sewn onto it to form the sides. It also has 4 lifting points (straps).

The open top Big Bag

This bag is widely used in construction for the disposal of heavy and bulky materials such as rubble. It is also favored by landscapers and gardeners for clearing green waste. Note that it does not have a closing system.

The Big Bag with filling skirt

This type of bag is highly appreciated for its skirt that allows directing goods to the bottom of the bag. This process prevents product losses during the filling of the Big Bag. This bag is also equipped with a closure system.

The Big Bag with filling spout

The filling spout allows guiding the flow of materials precisely to the bottom of the bag. It is widely used for the transport of powders or pasty products.

The Big Bag with discharge spout

Similarly, the discharge spout directs the flow of discharged product. The spout is positioned on the bottom of the bag, which must be suspended for discharge. This system allows partial emptying of the bag's contents and emptying the Big Bag.

The bottom-emptying Big Bag

This system allows for quick opening of the bottom of the bag during unloading using mechanical links. This process allows users to save a considerable amount of time.

The waterproof Big Bag

This is a bag designed for the transport or storage of products sensitive to air and humidity. Powders and foodstuffs are thus protected. It is also compatible with the use of liquid materials.

The asbestos Big Bag

The disposal of asbestos is regulated. That's why you will find specially designed Big Bags at OTEXIO for the transportation of these hazardous materials. We offer a range of 4 items of standard-sized Asbestos Big Bags.

How to use a Big Bag?

Attention, despite the apparent simplicity of this product, it is important to follow some rules to use it properly and ensure your safety.

Which industries use Big Bags?

Big Bags are widely used in:

• the agri-food sector;
• construction for waste disposal;
• construction for delivery of raw materials (sand, cement, etc.);
• in the agricultural sector (for storing seeds or fertilizers).

What rules should be followed during its use?

When using your Big Bags, we advise you to follow these few rules.

• When filling the bag, make sure it is positioned on a flat surface; it is important to know how to load a big bag correctly before any use.
• Use appropriate equipment: gloves, safety shoes.
• Respect the maximum load limits and the recommended lifting height.
• Distribute the loads evenly during transport to prevent any tilting of the bags.
• Use appropriate handling equipment (forklift or crane).

What rules should be followed when storing your bags?

Follow these tips that will help you protect your goods during storage.

• Store your bag on a pallet to prevent contact with the ground and facilitate handling.
• Make sure your load is protected from rain and frost.

Reuse of Big Bags: rules to follow

If you plan to recycle your Big Bags, make sure they are suitable for this purpose. To do this, you need to check the bag's class. Reusable Big Bags are all of class 6.1, it is still essential to follow some rules that will ensure your safety and that of your employees.

• Take note of the number of previous uses.
• Check the integrity of your bag. The straps, fabric, and threads must be in good condition.
• Ensure its compatibility with the stored materials. For this, you can consult the product's technical sheet or contact your supplier.

If you're wondering about the fate of this bag after use, you can read our article that explains how to proceed with the disposal of a used Big Bag while minimizing its ecological impact.

For any questions regarding the choice of a model or the quality of our products, consider contacting our customer service at +33 (0)4 78 52 06 51. You also have the option to submit a free online quote request.