What the UN Marking Is
Many IBC totes carry a UN marking: a code stamped on a metal data plate on the cage or molded into the bottle. It shows that the container's design was tested to the United Nations recommendations for packaging used to transport dangerous goods, which many countries, including the United States, Canada and EU members, build into their own transport rules.
The marking is permanent rather than a sticker, and it identifies the container type, the level of performance it was tested to, when it was made and who made it. Reading it is useful whenever you buy a used tote, because it tells you a lot about the container's design and age.
Decoding the Marking
A marking starts with the UN symbol, followed by a type code. Composite totes, with a plastic inner bottle inside a steel frame, commonly carry codes in the 31HA group. Next comes a letter for the packing groups the design was tested for: 'X' covers packing groups I, II and III, 'Y' covers II and III, and 'Z' covers III only. Most composite totes are 'Y'.
The marking also shows the month and year of manufacture, the country that approved the design and a manufacturer or approval code. Additional figures often include the maximum gross mass, tare weight, stacking test load and the specific gravity the container was tested for. A product denser than the tested specific gravity should not go in that tote.
Rules for Regulated Materials
If you ship or store regulated hazardous materials in IBCs, transport and safety rules cover which designs may be used, how long plastic bottles may stay in that service, and how often containers must be inspected and tested. These requirements are detailed and change from time to time. Check current regulations with your local authorities or a qualified hazardous materials shipping professional before putting any tote into that service.
ABC IBC does not arrange totes for hazardous materials service. If that is your use, work directly with a qualified packaging supplier and confirm the marking, age and inspection history yourself.
Totes Without a Legible Rating
Not every tote has a UN marking, and on some used totes the marking has worn, corroded or been damaged until it cannot be read. A tote whose rating cannot be verified should not be used where a rated container is required, but it can still be perfectly serviceable for non-regulated uses such as water storage, rainwater harvesting, irrigation and general storage.
Why the Marking Helps Every Buyer
Even if you never handle regulated materials, the marking is informative. The manufacture date tells you how old the bottle is, which matters because HDPE ages, especially outdoors. The stacking load and tested specific gravity tell you what the container was designed to handle.
When you request a quote through ABC IBC, tell us what you plan to store and whether you need the marking to be legible. A partner supplier in your area follows up with what they have available.