We can trace the origin of FIBC bags back to the 1950s. First used in Japan and Europe, they quickly gained traction and later became popular in the United States during the 1960s. While they served a similar purpose, early bulk bags were markedly different from modern-day ones.
The material composition was markedly different, with these formative bulk bags made from welded sheets of materials like nylon and polyester. However, these early FIBCs did boast a few familiar hallmarks, including lift swings akin to modern lifting loops. While their impressive load-bearing capabilities and durable design allowed them to be used for similar purposes as FIBC bags of today, an expensive price tag limited their appeal. However, they would become far more accessible with the introduction of polypropylene, with this material quickly becoming the standard for FIBC bags.
Reduced costs led to an explosion in popularity, with bulk bags becoming a sought-after commodity in the United States during the 1970s. Elsewhere in the world, a boom in the construction industry led to increased demand for FIBCs. By the following decade, further applications for bulk bags were being explored, including the handling and transportation of hazardous materials.
Unsurprisingly, this led to a need for compliance for FIBC containers. Robust FIBC container safety standards became the norm, establishing strict rules on operational use and performance testing. FIBC container regulation continues to evolve, with regular amendments to safety rules.
In the years that followed, advancements in material technology and innovations in FIBC customization have broadened the appeal for bulk bags. Today, the FIBC market generates more than $7 billion annually, with bulk bags used across many industries. FIBC containers for agriculture serve as durable storage solutions for animal feed and perishables, while FIBC containers for construction can be used to protect high-value materials and transport heavy loads.
