IBC Stacking Limit & UN Stacking Symbol FAQ
This FAQ explains how to determine an IBC stacking limit, where to find the UN stacking symbol and how to distinguish the permitted stacking load from the stacking test load. Under ADR, the maximum permitted stacking load applicable while the IBC is in use is shown on the stacking symbol. Always check the marking on the individual IBC before stacking.
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Stacking the VARIBOX IBCs
How can I see if I am allowed to stack a VARIBOX?
For a VARIBOX used under the applicable UN/ADR approval, check the stacking symbol on the individual IBC. ADR 6.5.2.2.2 states that the maximum permitted stacking load applicable when the IBC is in use is displayed on this symbol. In practical terms, the mass shown on the stacking symbol is the maximum load permitted on top of that IBC; do not substitute the separate stacking test load from the UN marking.
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?
For stacking while the IBC is in use or during transport, use the maximum permitted stacking load shown on the UN stacking symbol, not the separate stacking test load in the UN marking. For dynamic transport, VARIBOX recommends stacking no more than two IBCs high (one on one), while also respecting the marked stacking load and the applicable transport and load-securing requirements.
Can another brand or type of IBC be stacked above a VARIBOX?
VARIBOX recommends stacking VARIBOX on VARIBOX so the containers nest as designed. If a different IBC type is placed above a VARIBOX, the maximum permitted stacking load shown on the VARIBOX stacking symbol must still be respected, together with the applicable load-securing and transport requirements.
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 FAQ Stacking. If so, please contact our Customer Service, they are glad to help further.