National Machinery Hire Company Prevents Freezing Liquids with Insulated IBC Covers
Case Study: Furniture Manufacturer Reduces Plastic Waste with Reusable Stillage Wraps
Client: Mike Napthine
Region: UK, Europe, USA
Solution by: Palband – Reusable Solutions for Reliable Logistics
Overview
A national machinery hire company discovered that liquids stored in their intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) were regularly freezing during cold weather, disrupting operations and causing delays. With equipment and cleaning processes dependent on these liquids, downtime quickly became costly. The company approached Palband to develop a reliable, weatherproof solution that would keep their IBCs operational all year round.
- Excessive Plastic Waste: The sheer volume of shrink wrap used on every stillage—across thousands of deliveries—generated a significant amount of single-use plastic waste. This clashed with the company’s growing focus on sustainability and their commitment to reducing environmental impact.
- Inconsistent Application: Shrink wrap was often applied unevenly across sites and by different teams, leading to unpredictable levels of security.
- Product Damage: Inadequate or loose wrapping occasionally allowed heavy boxes to shift during transport. This led to goods arriving damaged or, in some cases, completely unsellable—impacting both customer satisfaction and financial performance.
Our Solution
Palband produced a range of custom insulated waterproof covers designed specifically for the company’s IBCs. Built from durable, weather-resistant materials, the covers included high-performance insulation to prevent freezing, even in prolonged low temperatures. To make daily use simple, we integrated flap openings into each design, allowing the IBCs to be emptied without removing the covers.
Each unit was finished in the company’s branding, providing a professional look alongside dependable thermal protection. The result was a robust, reusable system that delivered long-term performance and immediate peace of mind.
“Our insulated IBC covers allow clients to store liquids outdoors in any weather without concern,” said Mike Napthine, Client Solutions Lead at Palband. “They protect contents effectively while maintaining accessibility and a consistent, branded appearance.”
The Results
- Freezing of liquids in IBCs eliminated, ensuring year-round usability
- Easy access for emptying without removing the cover
- Durable, waterproof construction for reliable outdoor performance
- Branded design providing professional presentation and product protection
“Palband’s insulated covers gave this hire company total confidence to store IBCs outside through winter, knowing their liquids would stay fully usable,”
Mike Napthine, Client Solutions Lead, Palband.
