It’s a familiar scene in many manufacturing facilities. A production run has wrapped up, an intermediate bulk container (IBC) or drum looks empty, and it’s moved to the staging area for pickup. From the outside, everything appears ready. But looks can be deceiving.

What feels like a “completed task” can quickly turn into a logistical nightmare. Residual product remains in the container, critical product labels are missing or illegible, caps are only loosely on, and a dangerously stacked trailer is putting employees in harm’s way.

This situation is far more common than you think and leads to rejected pickups, wasted shipping costs, and potential fines for your facility.

Here are the 4 most common reasons your containers aren’t actually ready to hit the road – and how to fix them.

1. There is more product left than you think. Before an IBC or drum can be returned, it must be in “drip dry” condition, meaning it should be as empty as possible using normal emptying methods like pouring, pumping or aspirating. Residual material trapped in the bottom may not be obvious at first glance, but it matters. Ensuring containers are properly emptied helps recover valuable product and, just as importantly, protect both your employees and those handling the container downstream.
2. The original content and hazard labels are missing or illegible. All original content labels showing the product name, manufacturer, and associated health hazards must be intact and legible. These labels aren’t just helpful, they’re required for regulatory compliance. Missing labels creates risk for anyone handling the container and can prevent it from being accepted for return.
3. Openings aren’t properly secured. Filling and vent openings (plugs, closing rings, covers, caps, etc.) must have their closures in place and secured in the same manner as if the container were shipping full of product. Use of proper closures reduces the risk of leaks during handling and transport and helps ensure safe collection.
4. Containers aren’t stacked safely for transport. Improperly loaded trailers create a major safety hazard for your employees and ours. Drums and IBCs that aren’t stacked correctly increase the risk of shifting, tipping, or damage during transit and unloading. Safe stacking protects people, equipment, and the containers themselves.
   

How to Avoid Rejected Pickups and Unexpected Costs

A container that looks empty isn’t always return-ready. Taking a few extra minutes to ensure the container is in drip-dry condition, labels are present, closures are secured, and containers are stacked safely can help prevent rejected pickups, enhance safety, and keep your operation running smoothly.

Watch and Learn

Don’t let a simple mistake stall your operations. We’ve created a short video that walks you through the steps for the safe, compliant return of IBCs and Drums – watch it here.

Need a visual reminder in your facilities? Download our “Ready for Return” poster.

Learn more about our empty packaging collection program, Recover Syst-M, or schedule your pick up here