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FAQ Stacking
This FAQ stacking contains frequently asked questions about stacking the VARIBOX. This FAQ explains important stacking rules on IBCs from the ADR regulation. Additionally, it provides guidance on how to stack and gives recommendations for any VARIBOX.
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Stacking the VARIBOX IBCs
How can I see if I am allowed stack a VARIBOX?
Every VARIBOX is UN and ADR approved for the transport of chemicals and detergents. This approval includes the stackability, marked with a stacking symbol. According to chapter 6.5.2.2.2 of the ADR regulation, the maximum permitted stacking load applicable when the IBC is in use, is displayed in a symbol. In other words: this symbol indicates the weight that can be put on top of the VARIBOX.
Where can I find the UN stacking symbol?
The stacking symbol is near the UN mark of the VARIBOX. The picture shows what the VARIBOX stacking symbol looks like. In this example the number in the symbol is 2080 kg – this is the maximum load that can be stacked on the VARIBOX. For every VARIBOX this stacking load may be different, check its marking to verify the correct stacking load.
On a UN marking on composite IBCs, what is important to look at in terms of stacking?
The UN marking consists of a range of numbers. The next to last number indicates “the stacking test load in kg”. This number will be higher than the stacking load indicated: during the UN test “the load to be placed on the IBC shall be 1.8 times the combined maximum permissible gross mass of similar IBCs that may be stacked on top of the IBC during carriage” (According to ADR 6.5.6.6.4). The multiplication by 1.8 is a safety factor: don’t put this load on a VARIBOX, although it has been tested with it. Limit the stacking load to the mass indicated in the stacking symbol.
On a UN marking, what does the last number mean?
The last number indicates “the maximum permissible gross mass in kg” (ADR 6.5.2.1.1 (h)). This is not to be read as the stacking load. The stacking load is the number indicated in the stacking symbol.
How can I know, only by reading the UN marking, if the IBC is stackable?
While only looking at the numbers in the UN marking, if you see that the next to last digit is not 0, then the IBC is stackable.
How many VARIBOX can I stack when dynamic?
The stacking load relevant for the dynamic load or storage is indicated in the UN marking as “stacking test load in kg”. When dynamic, stack no more than 2 VARIBOX i.e. 1 on 1. Make sure the maximum permitted stacking load applicable, as indicated on the UN stacking symbol is not reached.
Can another brand or type of IBC be stacked above a VARIBOX?
We would strongly advise stacking VARIBOX on VARIBOX as correct nesting will be fully effective in this case. Nonetheless, the permissible gross mass should be respected, no matter what IBC is stacked on the VARIBOX.
Can I stack a VARIBOX SC with a VARIBOX FC and vice versa?
Yes, you can stack a VARIBOX SC on a VARIBOX FC and vice versa. The pallet or cover has the same nesting, guarantying effectiveness of the nesting and safe stacking.
The dimensions of the IBCs when stacked
What are the dimensions of a VARIBOX, when stacked?
| Item | Volume | Length | Width | Height | Nett height (stacking) | Stacking height |
| VARIBOX SC | 1000 L | 1200 mm | 1000 mm | 1325 mm | 1310 mm | 2635 mm |
| VARIBOX SC | 800 L | 1200 mm | 1000 mm | 1135 mm | 1120 mm | 2245 mm |
| VARIBOX FC | 1000 L | 1200 mm | 1000 mm | 1325 mm | 1310 mm | 2635 mm |
| VARIBOX FC | 800 L | 1200 mm | 1000 mm | 1160 mm | 1145 mm | 2305 mm |
| VARIBOX CC | 250 L | 800 mm | 600 mm | 1200 mm | 1310 mm | 2635 mm |
Is my VARIBOX stackable during transport by sea and how many can I place in a shipping container?
Yes, the VARIBOX is stackable during transport, please be careful about the maximum weight permitted by the transport container. Please note that the door height may be less than two VARIBOX stacked. This means that the VARIBOX is stackable inside of a High cube container but possibly not on entering. Please see the below table for the maximum number of VARIBOX you can place in different types of shipping containers:
| Shipping container | Internal dimensions | Door opening | Max 1000 L VARIBOX per shipping container | Max 800 L VARIBOX per shipping container |
| (L x W x H) in mm | (W x H) in mm | |||
| 20 ft | 5090x 2350 x 2390 | 2290 x 2280 | 9 IBCs | 18 IBCs |
| 40 ft | 12032 x 2350 x 2390 | 2290 x 2280 | 22 IBCs | 44 IBCs |
| 40 ft HC | 12032 x 2350 x 2695 | 2340X2580 | 20 IBCs | 40 IBCs |
| 40 ft HC PW | 12100 x 2422 x 2695 | 2340X2580 | 24 IBCs | 48 IBCs |
| 45 ft HC | 13580 x 2350 x 2700 | 2340X2580 | 22 IBCs | 44 IBCs |
Couldn’t find your answer in the FAQ stacking?
We know that the safe and reusable VARIBOX IBCs are being used for many different applications in many different markets. Therefore it could be that your question/answer is not included in the support section. If so, please contact our Customer Service, they are glad to help further.