Bulk Cooking Oil Suppliers

How bulk cooking oil purchasing works

Bulk cooking oil procurement operates at several volume tiers, each with distinct pricing, logistics, and supplier types: **ISO tank and flexitank (18–22 MT per 20ft container):** This is the standard unit for international bulk cooking oil trade. An ISO flexitank — a single-use food-grade flexible bladder fitted inside a standard 20ft dry container — holds approximately 20,000–22,000 litres of liquid oil. Food-grade stainless steel ISO tanks (reusable) hold approximately 20,000–21,000 litres. This is the entry point for most direct-from-refinery procurement and delivers the lowest per-litre cost. Suppliers in this tier are typically refineries, export traders, or large distributors operating internationally. **IBC totes (1,000-litre intermediate bulk containers):** IBCs are the mid-tier format — palletised plastic containers with a steel frame, holding 1,000 litres each. Minimum orders of 1–5 IBCs (1–5 MT) are available from regional distributors at a higher per-litre cost than ISO tank pricing but without the commitment of a full container. IBCs are practical for food manufacturers with limited tankage who need to top up stock frequently. **Drums (180–200 litre steel or plastic):** Drum orders suit smaller food businesses, restaurants, and catering operations. 200L steel drums are the standard industrial format; HDPE plastic drums are used for some refined grades. Drum pricing carries a significant premium over bulk pricing but offers maximum flexibility and shelf life management. For buyers comparing bulk cooking oil cost, the key price components are: ex-works or FOB commodity price; export levies and taxes (significant for Indonesia palm oil, Russia/Ukraine sunflower oil); freight (ocean + inland); customs duties; and handling charges at destination. Total landed cost per litre — not just the supplier's quoted FOB price — is the correct basis for comparing offers.