Ask X3What does 49 CFR 178.703 (Marking of IBCs) require?
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According to 49 CFR 178.703, manufacturers must mark every Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) in a durable and clearly visible manner. The markings can be in a single line or multiple lines using letters, numerals, and symbols at least 12 mm in height (for IBCs manufactured after October 1, 2001), following a strict required sequence:
1. UN Symbol or "UN": The United Nations symbol, or the capital letters "UN" if the IBC is a metal IBC with stamped or embossed markings.
2. Design Type Code: The code number designating the IBC design type, followed by the letter "W" if it differs from subpart N requirements or uses alternate testing approved by the Associate Administrator.
3. Performance Standard: A capital letter for the performance standard (X for Packing Groups I, II, and III; Y for Packing Groups II and III; Z for Packing Group III only).
4. Date of Manufacture: The month (numerically) and year (last two digits).
5. Country of Authorization: The letters "USA" for units manufactured and marked in the United States.
6. Manufacturer/Agency Info: The name, address, or registered symbol of the manufacturer or the approval agency certifying compliance.
7. Stacking Test Load: The stacking test load in kilograms (or "0" if not designed for stacking).
8. Gross Mass: The maximum permissible gross mass in kilograms.
Additional Required Markings:
IBCs must also feature readily accessible additional markings near the primary markings, using metric units where applicable:
* Rigid Plastic and Composite IBCs: Must show rated capacity in liters of water at 20 °C, tare mass in kg, gauge test pressure in kPa, date of last leakproofness test (month and year), and date of last inspection (month and year).
* Metal IBCs: Must include these details on a corrosion-resistant metal plate: rated capacity in liters, tare mass in kg, date of last leakproofness test, date of last inspection, maximum loading/discharge pressure in kPa (if applicable), body material with minimum thickness in mm, and the manufacturer's serial number.
* Fiberboard and Wooden IBCs: Must show the tare mass in kg.
* Flexible IBCs: May be marked with a pictogram showing recommended lifting methods.
* Composite IBC Inner Receptacles: Must be marked with the design type code, manufacturer name/address/symbol, date of manufacture, and authorizing country in a way that is visible from the outside or duplicated on the outer receptacle.
* Stacking Symbols: IBCs manufactured, repaired, or remanufactured after January 1, 2011, must display a square stacking symbol (at least 100 mm by 100 mm). For stackable IBCs, the maximum permitted stacking load in kg must be displayed above the symbol (calculated by dividing the design test load by 1.8), using letters and numbers at least 12 mm high.