Why become a Tank Service Providers member of ITCO ?

1. Tank Service Providers have activities which include depot one stop shops, insurance specialist, tank lining, special equipment suppliers eg. Robotic grinding for tank interior and tank cleaning equipment specialists.
2. Each member has their own reasons but common to all of us is the value of associating and networking at senior level with other members, particularly our contemporaries and customers who are largely the tank operators and leasing companies. Not forgetting Certification and Inspection companies. We are very vigilant on maintaining confidences and are careful not to contravene anti trust laws.
3. Of value are the pro-active safety initiatives as an example if my depot had a problem that I could help you avoid we would pass on the information.
4. Tank Service Providers working together have a voice to influence policy or introduce topics representing our Tank Service Providers interests to others in our industry who may not have fully understood the ramifications of their actions or plans e.g. tank ladder design for driver access.
5. We can make representation to all ITCO groups including those of our customers in a way that may not otherwise get heard by senior executives and this stands a chance of getting a result to mutual benefit. A good example of this is the way working at height safety had evolved / cascaded down to being the problem for the driver's employer..as a depot or trucking provider we are at the sharp end of safety on tanks and have employees working at chemical plants. The ITCO membership has taken this up and developed a protocol referring to tank design improving tanks at manufacture, policy on handrails and also decided to explain responsibilities of the plant owners via their trade associations.
6. We have the benefit of a marketing platform through the ITCO website. The website has recently been re-launched with specific new feature for companies seeking suppliers which will help them find Tank Service Providers supply by product type or location etc. using the 'search' feature. Listing on the new website is only open for members though anyone visiting the site can search. This will be of particular interest for Tank Service Providers as we are not global but services may be sought by overseas buyers. ITCO is not a commercial platform but this is a way of letting new people know of your products.
7. Legislation issues arise which have impact upon members. ITCO has status with countries making consultations as well as the international bodies such as UN. ITCO are currently involved in legislative process in Canada. Canadian draft laws for tanks transiting or operating in Canada are currently being considered. It has proven invaluable to have ITCO refer to existing laws and internationally approved protocols for depot testing to be brought to the attention of the legislators. ITCO are also currently making representation to the US railroads concerning the TIH restrictions.
8. ITCO is also working together with other Associations such as CEFIC, working at standardization of equipment
9. ITCO organize 2 meetings per annum of which one in Brussels (End January - early February) where all members are invited. This gives the opportunity to meet a large number of customers, suppliers with one single trip.
10. Last but not least, ITCO organize a Tank Container Village every two years at the Munich Transport Logistics Exhibition.