por Simin Xiang
An FIBC label must show manufacturer identity, safe working load, safety factor, and manufacture date under ISO 21898:2024. Miss any of these, and your shipment risks rejection at the port.
This guide explains mandatory label items, HS code classification, and UN transport markings. You will learn how to read each field, decode a UN string, and apply practices that keep freight moving.
ISO 21898:2024 requires every bulk bag to carry a durable label that stays readable after filling. The standard exists to protect both operators and cargo during handling and transport.
Each compliant FIBC label must include these fields:
Here is a plain text layout you can reference:
MANUFACTURER: [Name / Symbol / Address]
TYPE TEST CERT: [Number]
MFG DATE: [MM/YYYY]
SWL: [kg] SF: [5:1 or 6:1]
MAX STACK LOAD: [kg]
PRODUCT: [Material, if certified]
INSTRUCTIONS: [Fill / Empty / Ground if required]
These two numbers matter most, yet operators often misread them. Getting them right protects your load and your compliance record.
SWL is the maximum load the bag carries in normal use. It is a ceiling, not a target. SF shows the tested failure margin. A 5:1 bag rated at 1,000 kg was tested to 5,000 kg before failure.
A 5:1 safety factor signals a single fill-and-empty cycle. A 6:1 factor means the bag passed cyclic top-lift testing and suits multiple trips. Choosing the wrong factor invalidates safe reuse. Our guide on tipos de sacos FIBC breaks down each construction option.
Standard labels and UN markings are separate. A UN marking only appears on bags certified for dangerous goods through accredited testing.
Consider the sample string 13H3/Y/250/S/19/D/ABC123:
| Code | Meaning |
| 13 | Flexible intermediate bulk container |
| H | Woven plastic fabric |
| 3 | Design type code |
| Y | Packing Group II and III |
| 250 | Max gross mass (kg) |
| S | Solid/granular drop test passed |
| 19 | Year of manufacture |
| D | Country of authorization |
| ABC123 | Manufacturer identifier |
For bags moving regulated waste, our article on FIBC bulk bag storage for hazardous wastes offers practical handling advice.
Bags used near flammable vapors or combustible dust carry a Type A, B, C, or D marking under IEC 61340-4-4.
Case example: A chemical processor handling static-sensitive powder switched from Type A to Type D. This removed grounding checks and cut ignition risk during transfer.
Customs officers use classification codes to process freight. The fibc bags hs code typically falls under 6305.32 for flexible intermediate bulk containers of man-made textile materials.
Declaring the correct fibc hs code speeds clearance and reduces duty disputes. Meeting fibc export packaging requirements also means matching labels to shipping documents.
Case example: A shipment was held at port because the batch number and manufacture date were smudged. The importer could not verify certification, and the container waited days before release.
Sound FIBC bulk bag labeling best practices prevent this. Durable print, correct placement, and legible batch numbers keep goods moving. Proper handling hardware, like the stevedore straps on FIBC bags, also protects label integrity during lifting.
XIFA Group is a packaging manufacturer producing PP fabric, BOPP bags, FIBC big bags, and PE film bags. With about 25 years of experience, it operates a 72,000 square meter workshop and over 800 staff.
The company applies ISO9001, ISO14001, and OHSAS18001 management systems. It supports BRCGS, FDA, ISO22000, food-grade, and dangerous goods packaging on applicable orders. QR code tracking, drop tests, and sample retention give logistics managers verifiable records.
Following consistent FIBC bulk bag labeling best practices with scan-to-verify traceability helps reduce port detention risk during export.
Clear labeling keeps FIBC shipments compliant and moving. Verify SWL, SF, stacking load, and manufacture date before any bag ships. For dangerous goods, confirm the UN marking and anti-static type match your material.
Grupo XIFA combines strict quality control with global export experience to support these needs. Explore the full collection and find packaging built for cross-border compliance.
SWL is the maximum working load a bag carries. SF is the tested failure ratio. A 5:1 bag rated at 1,000 kg was tested to 5,000 kg. SF is a safety margin, not extra capacity.
No. UN markings appear only on bags certified for dangerous goods transport. Standard bags for non-hazardous materials carry an ISO 21898 label without a UN string.
FIBC bags usually classify under HS code 6305.32, covering flexible intermediate bulk containers of man-made textiles. Always confirm the current code with your customs authority before export.
Do not use the bag. An unreadable label means SWL, certification, and manufacture date cannot be verified. This can trigger port detention. Request a replacement with full documentation from your supplier.
