This equipment consists of a pillow type tank inside a 20' dry container, typically in the 21,000/25,000 liter range, which could be constructed from a nylon/polyurethane composite material (thermoplastic) or from rubber (elastomer). There are disposable versions of the thermoplastic tank but generally they are extensively re-used. Although they can be washed, dedicated service is highly recommended.

Flexible tanks cannot be used to transport hazardous materials.

Shippers are usually skeptical about using flexible tanks for permissible products, especially if they are potentially deleterious to the environment.

Flexitank recommends flexible tanks for products sensitive to air exposure, such as latex, and for long routes where the lower capital costs result in substantial savings.