Abstract: A materials handling method includes the steps of closing and sealing a permanent reusable container to enclose a material in a fluid tight condition. The air in the container is then displaced with a substitute gas so that the material may be transported and stored in air free standard unit measures. The apparatus of the invention is directed to the generally rigid fluid tight container having at least one access opening and a door for closing and sealing the same. A valve mechanism on the container enables air to be removed from the container either by evacuation or substitution by another gas.