USD 14.77 billion
Intermediate Bulk Container Market Size, Share, and Growth Analysis
Intermediate Bulk Container Market By Material (Plastic, Metal), By Capacity (RIBC, Up to 1,000 L), By Content (Liquid, Solid & Semi-solids), By Type (Rigid, Flexible), By End Use Industry, By Region - Industry Forecast 2025-2032
Report ID:
SQMIG15A2247 |
Region:
Global |
Published Date: February, 2025
Pages:
184
|Tables:
64
|Figures:
75
Format -
Intermediate Bulk Container Market Insights
Intermediate Bulk Container Market size was valued at USD 14.77 billion in 2023 and is poised to grow from USD 15.58 billion in 2024 to USD 23.91 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period (2025-2032).
Factors contributing to intermediate bulk container market growth include the widespread adoption across various industries and the expansion of global trade. Nevertheless, the market's growth might be somewhat hindered by the fluctuating prices of raw materials used in intermediate bulk containers (IBCs). An intermediate bulk container, recognized for its innovative container design, presents numerous potential applications across a range of industries. These containers, which are pallet-mounted and environmentally sustainable, serve as industrial-grade reusable vessels for transporting and storing bulk liquids, powders, and other materials. Their ability to stack efficiently for space optimization and easy movement via pallet jacks or forklifts has led to an increasing demand for shipping purposes.
In the pharmaceutical sector, the application of IBCs is projected to experience substantial growth during the forecast period, displaying a significant CAGR. This momentum can be attributed to the presence of numerous pharmaceutical manufacturers in the U.S., coupled with the intermediate bulk container industry's rapid growth due to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Consequently, the pharmaceutical industry is expected to drive an elevated demand for intermediate bulk containers over the forecast period. It's worth noting that IBCs also find extensive use in flood control activities across the country.
US Intermediate Bulk Container Market is poised to grow at a sustainable CAGR for the next forecast year.
Market snapshot - 2025-2032
Global Market Size
Largest Segment
Plastic
Fastest Growth
Plastic
Growth Rate
5.5% CAGR
Global Intermediate Bulk Container Market ($ Bn)
Country Share for Asia Pacific Region (%)
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Intermediate Bulk Container Market Segments Analysis
Global Intermediate Bulk Container Market is segmented by Material, Capacity, Content, Type, End Use Industry and region. Based on Material, the market is segmented into Plastic, Metal, Paper & paperboard and Others. Based on Capacity, the market is segmented into RIBC, Up to 1,000 L, 1,000 to 1,500 L, Above 1,500 L, FIBC, Up to 500 KG, 500 to 1,000 KG, 1,000 to 1,500 KG and Above 1,500 KG. Based on Content, the market is segmented into Liquid, Solid & Semi-solids and Others. Based on Type, the market is segmented into Rigid and Flexible. Based on End Use Industry, the market is segmented into Food and beverage, Chemicals, Pharmaceuticals, Oil and gas, Building & construction and Others. Based on region, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East & Africa.
Intermediate Bulk Container Market Analysis By Material
In terms of revenue distribution, plastic dominated the market, holding a substantial share of 67.5% in 2023. The composition of intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) predominantly revolves around materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and propylene. Plastic-based IBCs, notably crafted from high-density polyethylene and propylene, possess several key advantages. These containers are known for their lightweight nature, visually appealing design, and robust barrier properties. They boast high tensile strength and are notably more cost-effective than their metal counterparts.
Among the various plastic options available, intermediate bulk containers fashioned from HDPE materials stand out as a popular choice within the market. These particular IBCs exhibit exceptional resilience against diverse weather conditions, rendering them well-suited for applications involving hazardous chemicals and delicate ingredients. This strength and durability make them particularly attractive in manufacturing sectors where the need for secure storage is paramount. The cumulative effect of these attributes has facilitated the widespread adoption of plastic-based IBCs.
Anticipatedly, the demand for metal IBCs is poised to experience rapid growth in the upcoming year, primarily attributed to their reusability advantages. Metal IBCs find prominent utilization in the transportation of bulk liquids and powders. Additionally, their inherent stackability during transportation confers further advantages. This combination of features positions metal IBCs as a compelling choice within the industry.
Intermediate Bulk Container Market Analysis By End-Use
In the landscape of applications, the chemicals and petrochemicals segment took the lead in 2023, asserting its prominence as the largest contributor. This particular sector is projected to maintain its position at the forefront, with an anticipated market share of 37.4% by the year 2031. Within the chemicals and petrochemicals domain, intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) have secured a pivotal role as extensively employed storage units. Their versatility and suitability for the transportation and storage of petrochemicals and hazardous chemicals make them a preferred choice in this industry.
As we look ahead, the pharmaceutical segment is poised for remarkable expansion, poised to demonstrate the fastest growth rate during the forecast period. The driving force behind this surge is the escalating demand for heightened hygiene standards within the pharmaceutical sector. Over time, there has been a growing imperative to employ industrial bulk containers, such as IBCs, to ensure the preservation of sanitary conditions. Recognizing the escalating need for these specialized containers within the pharmaceutical industry, prominent industry players are directing their efforts towards providing medical-grade IBCs. This strategic focus on delivering containers that meet stringent medical standards underscores the increasing convergence of the IBC market with the pharmaceutical sector's exacting requirements.
Global Intermediate Bulk Container Market By Material
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Intermediate Bulk Container Market Regional Insights
In the dynamics of intermedia bulk container, the Asia Pacific region took center stage, securing a significant market share of 43.7%. Within this expansive region, major players include Japan, China, and India, each contributing to the vibrant market landscape. The catalyst behind this robust growth has been the upward trajectory of industrial expenditure. As the region witnesses an upsurge in investment within various industrial sectors, the industrial bulk containers market for has experienced a corresponding boost.
A compelling aspect of the Asia Pacific market is its facilitation of entry for small- and medium-sized industries. This favorable environment is fostered by a combination of factors, including the availability of economical land and a skilled labor force. The convergence of these conditions not only entices industrial players but also fortifies the overall market expansion throughout the Asia Pacific region.
Turning our gaze to Europe, it stands as the second-largest intermediate bulk container (IBC) market. The impetus for growth in this region stems from the flourishing pharmaceutical industry. This sector's consistent upward trajectory has played a pivotal role in driving demand for effective bulk packaging solutions. Beyond this, Europe's demographic makeup, with a substantial geriatric population, holds the promise of attractive growth prospects. This is notably due to the anticipated rise in the production and consumption of pharmaceutical products, in response to the evolving healthcare needs of an aging populace. These factors collectively position Europe as a significant contender in the industrial bulk container (IBC) market.
Global Intermediate Bulk Container Market By Geography
- Largest
- Fastest
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Intermediate Bulk Container Market Dynamics
Intermediate Bulk Container Market Drivers
Increased Industrialization and Global Trade
- The expanding industrial sector and the growth of global trade have heightened the demand for efficient and reliable bulk packaging solutions like IBCs. Industries such as chemicals, petrochemicals, food and beverages, and pharmaceuticals extensively rely on IBCs for transportation and storage.
Focus on Sustainable Packaging
- With a growing emphasis on sustainability, IBCs made from recyclable and eco-friendly materials are gaining traction. Companies are seeking packaging solutions that align with environmental regulations and consumer preferences, boosting the adoption of sustainable IBCs.
Intermediate Bulk Container Market Restraints
Fluctuating Raw Material Prices
- The IBC market is sensitive to fluctuations in the prices of raw materials like plastics and metals. Unpredictable material costs can impact the overall profitability and pricing strategies of IBC manufacturers.
Limited Compatibility with Certain Products
- Some products, especially those requiring specialized handling or those with specific temperature and moisture requirements, might not be suitable for transportation or storage in standard IBCs, limiting their application.
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Intermediate Bulk Container Market Competitive Landscape
The global Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) market presents a competitive landscape characterized by a blend of established industry giants and emerging players striving for market share. Key market participants, such as SCHÜTZ GmbH & Co. KGaA and Mauser Packaging Solutions, have demonstrated their prowess with innovation and strategic expansion. These companies, headquartered in Germany and the United States respectively, leverage their extensive experience to offer a comprehensive range of IBC solutions to various industries.
Greif, Inc. and Snyder Industries, Inc., also hailing from the United States, contribute significantly to the competitive dynamics. Their diverse product portfolios cater to different market segments, bolstered by their commitment to sustainability and regulatory compliance. Meanwhile, the Hoover Ferguson Group, Inc., Berry Global, Inc., and TranPak, Inc., all based in the United States, exhibit resilience through their innovative designs and technological integration.
Top Players in Intermediate Bulk Container Market
- Greif, Inc. (USA)
- Mondi Group (UK)
- Mauser Packaging Solutions (USA)
- Time Technoplast Ltd. (India)
- Schutz Container Systems (Germany)
- Snyder Industries, Inc. (USA)
- International Paper Company (USA)
- Berry Global Group Inc. (USA)
- Hoover Container Solutions, Inc. (USA)
- DS Smith Plc (UK)
- Transtainer Pty Ltd (Australia)
- Schafer Werke GmbH (Germany)
- Thielmann - The Container Company (Germany)
- FlexiTuff Ventures International Ltd. (India)
- LC Packaging International BV (Netherlands)
- Plymouth Industries LLC (USA)
- Global-Pak LLC (USA)
Intermediate Bulk Container Market Recent Developments
- In June 2022, Allergan plc announced that it has acquired Ocular Therapeutix, Inc. for USD 1.8 billion.
- In May 2022, Oculis S.A. reported positive data from two clinical proof-of-concept Phase 2 trials with OCS-02, its novel, topical anti-TNF alpha antibody fragment candidate, in Dry Eye Disease (DED) and Acute Anterior Uveitis (AAU).
Intermediate Bulk Container Key Market Trends
- Customized and Specialty IBCs: As industries diversify and product requirements become more specific, there's intermediate bulk container market trend towards the development of customized and specialty IBCs. These containers are tailored to meet unique storage and transportation needs, expanding the market's versatility.
- E-commerce and Direct-to-Consumer Distribution: The rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer distribution models is influencing packaging requirements. IBCs are adapting to accommodate the changing demands of online sales and home deliveries.
Intermediate Bulk Container Market SkyQuest Analysis
SkyQuest's ABIRAW (Advanced Business Intelligence, Research & Analysis Wing) is our Business Information Product types team that Collects, Collates, Co-relates, and Analyses the Data collected by means of Primary Exploratory Research backed by robust Secondary Desk research.
According to our global intermediate bulk container market analysis, the global Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC) market is witnessing robust growth driven by factors like industrial expansion, sustainability demands, and technological innovations. The market is dominated by prominent players such as SCHÜTZ GmbH & Co. KGaA and Mauser Packaging Solutions, who lead with innovative product offerings and strategic global presence. The competitive landscape showcases a blend of established giants and emerging contenders, each vying to capture market share by addressing diverse industry needs.
Moreover, the emphasis on lightweight materials, customization, and technological integration is shaping the market's trajectory. However, challenges posed by fluctuating raw material costs and stringent regulations necessitate industry adaptation. As the market continues to expand across regions like Asia-Pacific and Europe, the demand for efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective IBC solutions remains the driving force. The evolving landscape underscores the sector's resilience and adaptability to cater to a spectrum of industries while contributing to the global logistics and packaging ecosystem.
| Report Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Market size value in 2023 | USD 14.77 billion |
| Market size value in 2032 | USD 23.91 billion |
| Growth Rate | 5.5% |
| Base year | 2024 |
| Forecast period | 2025-2032 |
| Forecast Unit (Value) | USD Billion |
| Segments covered |
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| Regions covered | North America (US, Canada), Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (China, India, Japan, Rest of Asia-Pacific), Latin America (Brazil, Rest of Latin America), Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC Countries, Rest of MEA) |
| Companies covered |
|
| Customization scope | Free report customization with purchase. Customization includes:-
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Table Of Content
Executive Summary
Market overview
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Overview
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Market Overview
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Intermediate Bulk Container Market Characteristics
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market by Geography
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Market Segmentation
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Incremental Growth
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Data Table on Incremental Growth
- Exhibit: Executive Summary – Chart on Vendor Market Positioning
Parent Market Analysis
Market overview
Market size
- Market Dynamics
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- Drivers
- Opportunities
- Restraints
- Challenges
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- SWOT Analysis
KEY MARKET INSIGHTS
- Technology Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and details)
- Pricing Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of technology and pricing details)
- Supply Chain Analysis
- (Exhibit: Detailed Supply Chain Presentation)
- Value Chain Analysis
- (Exhibit: Detailed Value Chain Presentation)
- Ecosystem Of the Market
- Exhibit: Parent Market Ecosystem Market Analysis
- Exhibit: Market Characteristics of Parent Market
- IP Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of product/technology, patents filed, inventor/company name, acquiring firm)
- Trade Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Import and Export data details)
- Startup Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Emerging startups details)
- Raw Material Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Mapping of key raw materials)
- Innovation Matrix
- (Exhibit: Positioning Matrix: Mapping of new and existing technologies)
- Pipeline product Analysis
- (Exhibit: Data Table: Name of companies and pipeline products, regional mapping)
- Macroeconomic Indicators
COVID IMPACT
- Introduction
- Impact On Economy—scenario Assessment
- Exhibit: Data on GDP - Year-over-year growth 2016-2022 (%)
- Revised Market Size
- Exhibit: Data Table on Intermediate Bulk Container Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Impact Of COVID On Key Segments
- Exhibit: Data Table on Segment Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- COVID Strategies By Company
- Exhibit: Analysis on key strategies adopted by companies
MARKET DYNAMICS & OUTLOOK
- Market Dynamics
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- Drivers
- Opportunities
- Restraints
- Challenges
- Exhibit: Impact analysis of DROC, 2021
- Regulatory Landscape
- Exhibit: Data Table on regulation from different region
- SWOT Analysis
- Porters Analysis
- Competitive rivalry
- Exhibit: Competitive rivalry Impact of key factors, 2021
- Threat of substitute products
- Exhibit: Threat of Substitute Products Impact of key factors, 2021
- Bargaining power of buyers
- Exhibit: buyers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
- Threat of new entrants
- Exhibit: Threat of new entrants Impact of key factors, 2021
- Bargaining power of suppliers
- Exhibit: Threat of suppliers bargaining power Impact of key factors, 2021
- Competitive rivalry
- Skyquest special insights on future disruptions
- Political Impact
- Economic impact
- Social Impact
- Technical Impact
- Environmental Impact
- Legal Impact
Market Size by Region
- Chart on Market share by geography 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by geography 2021-2027(%)
- North America
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- USA
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Canada
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Europe
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- Germany
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Spain
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- France
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- UK
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of Europe
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Asia Pacific
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- China
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- India
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Japan
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- South Korea
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Latin America
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- Brazil
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of South America
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Middle East & Africa (MEA)
- Chart on Market share by country 2021-2027 (%)
- Data Table on Market share by country 2021-2027(%)
- GCC Countries
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- South Africa
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
- Rest of MEA
- Exhibit: Chart on Market share 2021-2027 (%)
- Exhibit: Market size and forecast 2021-2027 ($ million)
KEY COMPANY PROFILES
- Competitive Landscape
- Total number of companies covered
- Exhibit: companies covered in the report, 2021
- Top companies market positioning
- Exhibit: company positioning matrix, 2021
- Top companies market Share
- Exhibit: Pie chart analysis on company market share, 2021(%)
- Total number of companies covered
Methodology
For the Intermediate Bulk Container Market, our research methodology involved a mixture of primary and secondary data sources. Key steps involved in the research process are listed below:
1. Information Procurement: This stage involved the procurement of Market data or related information via primary and secondary sources. The various secondary sources used included various company websites, annual reports, trade databases, and paid databases such as Hoover's, Bloomberg Business, Factiva, and Avention. Our team did 45 primary interactions Globally which included several stakeholders such as manufacturers, customers, key opinion leaders, etc. Overall, information procurement was one of the most extensive stages in our research process.
2. Information Analysis: This step involved triangulation of data through bottom-up and top-down approaches to estimate and validate the total size and future estimate of the Intermediate Bulk Container Market.
3. Report Formulation: The final step entailed the placement of data points in appropriate Market spaces in an attempt to deduce viable conclusions.
4. Validation & Publishing: Validation is the most important step in the process. Validation & re-validation via an intricately designed process helped us finalize data points to be used for final calculations. The final Market estimates and forecasts were then aligned and sent to our panel of industry experts for validation of data. Once the validation was done the report was sent to our Quality Assurance team to ensure adherence to style guides, consistency & design.
Analyst Support
Customization Options
With the given market data, our dedicated team of analysts can offer you the following customization options are available for the Intermediate Bulk Container Market:
Product Analysis: Product matrix, which offers a detailed comparison of the product portfolio of companies.
Regional Analysis: Further analysis of the Intermediate Bulk Container Market for additional countries.
Competitive Analysis: Detailed analysis and profiling of additional Market players & comparative analysis of competitive products.
Go to Market Strategy: Find the high-growth channels to invest your marketing efforts and increase your customer base.
Innovation Mapping: Identify racial solutions and innovation, connected to deep ecosystems of innovators, start-ups, academics, and strategic partners.
Category Intelligence: Customized intelligence that is relevant to their supply Markets will enable them to make smarter sourcing decisions and improve their category management.
Public Company Transcript Analysis: To improve the investment performance by generating new alpha and making better-informed decisions.
Social Media Listening: To analyze the conversations and trends happening not just around your brand, but around your industry as a whole, and use those insights to make better Marketing decisions.
Intermediate Bulk Container Market Report Snapshots
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