Bulk potash and fertilizer move through a chain of filling, storage, lifting, transport and discharge steps. A flexible intermediate bulk container (FIBC) should be specified around that process—not selected by capacity alone. Before requesting supplier quotes, procurement teams can clarify seven points.
1. Describe the material and its condition
State the fertilizer product, whether it is granular or powder, and any handling concerns such as dust, moisture exposure or flow behavior. Share the information your technical team can verify. The name of a commodity by itself does not confirm chemical compatibility or the need for a liner.
2. Define the target fill
Give the requested net product weight per bag and, if known, bulk density and particle characteristics. These details affect the bag dimensions and filling behavior. Confirm how the target fill will be measured on the actual line.
3. Match the filling top to the equipment
Tell suppliers whether the line fills through an open top, a filling spout or a skirt. Include the dimensions and connection details needed to fit the filling head, plus how the top should close after filling.
4. Specify how the bag will empty
A flat base, discharge spout or another bottom arrangement may suit different receiving systems. Identify the outlet dimensions, closure method and discharge equipment. Where residue matters, describe the acceptable result and the process used to check it.
5. Draw the lifting and handling arrangement
Show the required loop positions, lifting method, pallet or forklift interface, and any stacking or warehouse constraints. State the safe working load and safety factor required for the application and destination market. Ask for evidence that applies to the proposed design; do not infer a rating from appearance or a similar bag.
6. Set storage and transport conditions
Describe expected storage duration, indoor or outdoor exposure, stacking, container loading and handling route. A coating or liner is a design choice to assess against those conditions; it is not a universal moisture-proofing guarantee. Confirm any protection claims against the exact specification and supporting evidence.
7. Make the RFQ comparable
Send one drawing or specification sheet with material, dimensions, construction, top and bottom, loops, target fill, printing, quantity, destination and required documents. Ask each supplier to identify deviations clearly. If a sample or trial is needed, agree what will be checked before approving production.
A supplier can use those details to discuss a configuration and identify open questions before quoting. For example, a fertilizer FIBC reference measuring 95 × 95 × 110 cm with skirt filling is only a starting point; the right dimensions, discharge, loops and material details depend on the buyer’s actual line and use.
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