LNG ISO tanks are designed to transport gases. Looking for an LNG ISO tank? Get the full overview of their features and specifications as well as average prices on different types.
As the demand for international trade rises day by day, the need for good quality and reliable means of conveyance increases. To carry liquefied natural gas worldwide, the LNG ISO tank caters to this need with various customizable features.
In many countries, LNG ISO tanks are used to optimize energy supply chains and obtain Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) for use in cities and remote locations. LNG containers offer an effective solution to the LNG supply problem.
With that being said, there has been a lot of confusion circulating within the shipping industry regarding the 40ft LNG ISO tank and ISO VAC 40 LNG. Are they the same thing or do they have their own functions?
To clarify, 40ft LNG ISO Tank and ISO VAC 40 LNG are just the same but with variable names.
Now that we’ve cleared things up, do you want to skip right to buying or leasing an LNG ISO tank? Then click on the banner below to find LNG ISO tanks at the best rates possible in your preferred location.
If you’re keen to learn more about these special tanks, read on to get a complete overview of the LNG ISO Tank and its features.
What is an LNG ISO tank?
Generally, an ISO Tank is a tank container that is built according to the ISO standard (International Organisation for Standardization). And are used to transport various liquids and gasses. More specifically, LNG ISO tanks are designed to efficiently carry liquified natural gas (LNG) in bulk.
These tanks are made of stainless steel. Plus they have multi-layered vacuum-insulated pressure tanks, supported by double-walled transport tanks. Hence, allowing them to hold LNG at temperatures of -162 °C (-260 °F). The maximum pressure level of an LNG ISO tank container is 0.690 MPa.
An LNG ISO tank has two containers — an inner tank containing LNG and an outer tank with insulation materials. Full containment tanks are most common and vary in size based on their purpose. Transporting LNG in ISO tanks is an innovative and effective alternative to conventional natural gas distribution.
Here are other ways where LNG ISO Tank containers are useful 👇
What Can You Transport In LNG ISO Tank Containers?
LNG ISO tank containers are intermodal containers used to move liquids, gases, and powders. It is built in accordance with the ISO standards, making it suitable for different modes of transportation.
LNG tanks are typically constructed with 4 to 6 tanks arranged in a row down the center. The vessel has a double-hull design because two separate ballast tanks, cofferdams, and voids surround the tanks.
LNG or Liquified Natural Gas is natural gas (predominantly methane, CH4, with some mixture of ethane, C2H6) converted into liquid form for storage or transportation without the use of pressurized vessels or storage. LNG is odorless, colorless, non-toxic, and non-corrosive gas.
The market is full of companies providing LNG ISO tanks at standard rates. xChange helps you to find the right LNG ISO tank container as per your requirements from a pool of verified suppliers.
Market overview of LNG ISO tank containers
Now that we have an idea of what LNG ISO tanks can transport, here’s a quick wrap-up of what’s happening in the LNG ISO tank market:
- The global LNG ISO tank container market size was estimated at USD 159.1 million in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 264 million by 2028.
- Major players in the ISO tank container market are China International Marine Containers Co. Ltd, Nantong Tank Container CO. Ltd, CXIC Group Containers Company Limited, and Singamas Container, to name a few.
- Europe was the largest region in the ISO tank container market in 2021, with North America being the second.
To learn more about the latest LNG ISO tank market trends, read this report.
Know the difference: Types of ISO containers
There are various types of ISO tanks available in the market and each with its own purpose. So how do you know which one is best for your needs?
Don’t worry! Because here’s an overview of the common types of ISO tanks and the type of cargo they’re designed to carry:
Type |
Sizes |
Cargo type |
Food grade |
20ft, 40ft, 45ft |
Ideal for shipping/storing food such as beer, milk, and hot chocolate. |
Silo |
20ft, 40ft, 45ft |
These are used to transport powders or grains like wheat, oats, and flour. |
Swap body |
20ft, 23ft, 24ft |
An excellent option for when you need more storage space for chemicals. |
Reefer |
20ft, 40ft, 45ft |
Perfect for shipping temperature-sensitive liquids, powders, and gasses. |
Gas |
20ft, 40ft, 45ft |
Specifically designed to carry industrial, medical, and natural gasses. Examples: liquified petroleum gas and heliox. |
Multi-compartment |
20ft, 40ft |
Great if you’re looking to transport various types of liquids, powders, and gasses at the same time. |
LNG ISO tanks |
20ft, 40ft, 45ft |
Intended to ship liquified natural gas (LNG) such as methane and ethane. |
Let’s now zoom in on the features of the top ISO tank performers:
Food-grade tank container
These tanks are suited to transport temperature-sensitive cargo, such as milk. Its made of stainless steel with mineral wool insulation. As a result, superior thermal insulation maintains temperature for longer.
Silo tank container
Silo tanks are made of high-grade steel and are known for shipping all sorts of grains and powders. Anything from maize and flour to cement, this is your go-to tank. They’re also coated with a UV-stabilized outer layer to protect the cargo from harsh climate conditions.
Swap body tank container
Swap body tanks are designed to transport hazardous and non-hazardous and food-grade bulk liquid cargo. These tanks allow for the transportation of larger volumes of up to 35,000 liters. Plus, it can hold a maximum cargo temperature of +130°C.
LNG ISO tank container
These tanks have a working pressure ranging from 100psi to 10 Bar and are ideal for the safe transport of LNG. LNG tanks also feature high vacuum insulation, stacking capability of 9 units high, a full set of decals, and various pipework options. All these features offer maximum versatility to the end user and operator.
Do any of these ISO tanks pique your interest? Then head over to xChange to find your ideal ISO Tank at a price you fancy.
Average prices of LNG ISO tank
The prices of LNG ISO tank containers vary depending on factors like which country it’s bought in, the country it’s sent to, or the type of LNG ISO container used. Here’s the price list of different LNG ISO tank containers:
Container Type |
Average Price |
20 ft LNG ISO Tank |
USD 10,000 |
40 ft Cryogenic LNG ISO Tank |
USD 50,000 – 52,000 |
10 ft Low Pressure LNG ISO Tank |
USD 8,000 – 42,000 |
40 ft LNG ISO Tank |
USD 54,000 – 56,000 |
45ft LNG ISO tank |
USD 33,000 |
Interested in the average prices and leasing rates of LNG ISO tanks in your location? Click here to find out today.
LNG ISO tank types and their specifications
By now we know that LNG ISO tank containers are the most effective vessels to transport liquified natural gases. There are 2 types of LNG ISO tanks commonly used in the shipping industry. These are cryogenic LNG tanks and the standard 20ft and 40ft LNG ISO containers. To optimally serve their purposes, each type and size has its own unique specification.
Let’s dive into each of their specifications and metrics:
Container Type |
Container Specification (L x B x H /mm) |
Loading Capacity (in L) |
Design Temperature (ºC) |
20 ft LNG ISO Container |
6058 x 2438 x 2591 |
22,000 L |
55 |
40 ft LNG ISO Container |
12460 x 2500 x 3980 |
25,000 L |
55 |
20 ft Standard Cryogenic LNG ISO |
6058 x 2438 x 2591 |
20,200 L |
55 |
LNG can be transported over longer distances using cryogenic ISO tank containers. This allows for a more cost-effective fuel supply to end-users that are further away from LNG supply sources. A 20ft cryogenic LNG ISO container offers a storage capacity of 22,000 liters starting at a 17 BARG working pressure.
Similarly, two 40ft LNG ISO containers can have different specifications, and they can be leveraged for different purposes. For instance, a 40ft cryogenic LNG ISO container provides an exceptional 45,000 liters of capacity with a total payload of up to 36,000 kg. The working pressures for a 40ft LNG ISO standard container range between 10 BARG to 22 BARG with and without pump options.
With specifications out the way, let’s now explore the safety considerations of LNG ISO tank containers.
Safety considerations of LNG ISO tank container
LNG ISO tanks must be handled with extra care since LNG is highly flammable. Here are some key safety pointers to consider when shipping LNG:
- When handling natural gas, there’s a possibility that gas will permeate clothing, so avoid smoking near the tank, especially while filling and discharging.
- In case of a leak, remove any ignition sources and cut off the gas supply. Further, shut off the leaky spot and electrical units and have ample ventilation.
- Another safety tip is to avoid sealing the vessel containing liquefied gas. If left in a sealed state, gas vaporization may result in pressure rise. This pressure rise can cause injury and damage to equipment.
Keen to learn more about the common safety issues with shipping LNG ISO tanks and their solutions? Then read this study to get a deeper understanding.
Lease, buy and sell tank containers on xChange without commission
The moment has arrived! You’ve discovered that an ISO tank is exactly what you’re looking for. But now, how do you find them? Sourcing ISO tanks, let alone LNG ISO tanks is a tedious and stressful process due to their scarcity in the market.
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Benefits of becoming a member of Container xChange
As a member of xChange, you get:
– 100% transparency on market prices and the complete leasing or buying process
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LNG Tank Container FAQ
Are LNG tanks pressurized?
Yes, LNG Tanks are pressurized. The maximum working pressure of a standard LNG ISO tank is 250 PSIG or lower, with the product stored at 50-120 PSIG.
What is a rollover in LNG tanks?
The rollover in LNG tanks occurs when the vapors from an LNG tank are rapidly released because of stratification.