IBC Totes
Intermediate Bulk Containers for liquid and granular materials. Cleaned, pressure tested, and ready for reuse in food, chemical, and industrial applications.
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What Are IBC Totes?
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), commonly called totes, tanks, or IBC tanks, are industrial containers designed for storing and transporting bulk liquids and granular materials. They typically hold 275-330 gallons and are built on integrated pallets for easy handling.
IBC totes feature a durable HDPE (high-density polyethylene) bottle surrounded by a galvanized steel cage for protection. This design allows for safe stacking, forklift handling, and efficient storage - making them ideal for manufacturing, distribution, and processing operations.
Our reconditioned IBC totes offer significant cost savings - up to 70% compared to new units - while providing the same functionality. Each tote is professionally cleaned, pressure tested, and inspected before resale.
Available Sizes
We offer the two most common IBC tote sizes to meet your liquid storage and transport needs.
The standard size for most industrial applications. Fits on a standard GMA pallet and is compatible with most forklift and pallet jack systems.
Larger capacity for high-volume operations. Taller profile provides 20% more storage than standard 275-gallon units.
Quality Features
All our IBC totes come with quality assurance features and are prepared for immediate use in your operations.
Food Grade Available
FDA compliant containers suitable for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical applications. Thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
Our food-grade IBC totes meet FDA 21 CFR requirements for food contact. Each container is triple-rinsed and inspected before resale.
Cleaned & Pressure Tested
All totes undergo professional cleaning and pressure testing to ensure they are ready for immediate use.
Our reconditioning process includes hot water wash, chemical sanitization, pressure testing at 7 PSI, and visual inspection.
Galvanized Steel Cage
Durable galvanized steel cage provides protection during handling and allows safe stacking up to 4 high.
The steel cage protects the inner bottle from damage and provides structural support for stacking. Cages are inspected for rust and damage.
UN Rated Options
Available UN/DOT rated containers for hazardous material transport in compliance with regulations.
UN rated totes are certified for transporting dangerous goods. Common ratings include UN31HA1 and UN31HH1 for various hazmat classes.
IBC Tote Components
Understanding the components of an IBC tote helps you choose the right container and know what to inspect.
HDPE Bottle
High-density polyethylene inner container that holds the liquid. UV stabilized and chemical resistant.
The bottle is the heart of the IBC. Made from blow-molded HDPE, it is lightweight yet durable, resistant to most chemicals, and can be replaced if damaged.
Steel Cage
Galvanized steel frame that surrounds and protects the bottle. Allows for safe stacking and forklift handling.
The tubular steel cage is welded together and hot-dip galvanized for corrosion resistance. Designed to support stacking loads up to 4 high when filled.
Pallet Base
Integrated pallet (steel, plastic, or wood composite) allows handling by forklift or pallet jack.
The base is permanently attached to the cage. Options include steel (most durable), plastic (lightweight, no splinters), or wood composite.
Discharge Valve
Bottom outlet for dispensing contents. Available in butterfly or ball valve configurations.
2" or 3" outlets with various valve types. Butterfly valves for viscous materials, ball valves for clean liquids. Camlock fittings standard.
Top Fill Opening
6" or 8" lid with gasket seal for filling and venting. Screw-on cap provides secure closure.
The fill opening includes a gasket for leak-proof seal. Some models include pressure relief vents or dust caps. Tamper-evident options available.
ID Plate
Metal plate showing manufacturing date, capacity, UN rating, and tare weight.
Required for UN rated containers. Shows manufacturer, date of manufacture, test pressure, and certifications. Important for compliance.
IBC Tote Grading System
Our reconditioned IBC totes are graded based on bottle and cage condition. Choose the grade that matches your application requirements.
Grade A - Like New
Bottles with minimal use, clean inside and out. Cage in excellent condition with no rust or damage.
Food industry, pharmaceuticals, customer-facing applications
Grade B - Good Condition
Bottles with normal wear, thoroughly cleaned. Cage may have minor surface rust but structurally sound.
Industrial chemicals, cleaning products, general manufacturing
Grade C - Economy
Bottles showing wear, may have staining. Functional but not suitable for food. Cages may need minor repairs.
Non-critical applications, waste collection, one-time use
Our Reconditioning Process
Every reconditioned IBC tote goes through our comprehensive cleaning and testing process.
Receiving
Used totes collected and inventoried
Pre-Inspection
Initial assessment of bottle and cage condition
Draining
Remaining contents safely removed and disposed
Hot Wash
Interior cleaned with hot water and detergent
Rinse
Multiple rinse cycles to remove all residue
Pressure Test
Bottle tested at 7 PSI for leaks
Final Inspection
Visual inspection and grading assignment
Valve Replacement
New valves and gaskets installed as needed
Industries We Serve
Our IBC totes support a wide range of industries with specialized requirements.
Food & Beverage
Food-grade, triple-rinsed
- Syrups & flavorings
- Oils & fats
- Juices & concentrates
- Wine & spirits
Chemical Manufacturing
Chemical resistant, UN rated
- Industrial chemicals
- Cleaning products
- Solvents
- Lubricants
Pharmaceutical
Clean room compatible
- Raw ingredients
- Process chemicals
- Water for injection
- APIs
Agriculture
UN rated for hazmat
- Fertilizers
- Pesticides
- Seed treatments
- Animal feed additives
Cosmetics & Personal Care
Food-grade, clean
- Lotions & creams base
- Fragrances
- Surfactants
- Glycerin
Water Treatment
Chemical resistant
- Treatment chemicals
- Chlorine solutions
- pH adjusters
- Coagulants
Paints & Coatings
Solvent compatible
- Base materials
- Resins
- Solvents
- Additives
Fuel & Petroleum
UN rated, flame retardant
- Biodiesel
- Lubricants
- Additives
- Waste oil collection
New vs. Reconditioned IBC Totes
Compare the benefits of new and reconditioned totes to make the right choice for your application.
| Feature | New IBC Totes | Reconditioned |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | $200-400+ | $75-150 |
| Availability | Lead time 2-4 weeks | Immediate from stock |
| Environmental Impact | New plastics & steel | Extends product life |
| Food Grade | Always compliant | Available (certified) |
| UN Rating | Full certification | Varies by condition |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty | Condition guaranteed |
| Best For | Critical applications | Cost savings, sustainability |
Not sure which option is right for you? Our team can help you choose the best solution.
Get Expert AdviceFrequently Asked Questions
Have questions about IBC totes? Find answers to common questions below.
What does IBC stand for?
IBC stands for Intermediate Bulk Container. These are industrial-grade containers designed for storing and transporting bulk liquids and granular materials. They bridge the gap between drums (55 gallons) and tank trucks (thousands of gallons).
Can reconditioned IBC totes be used for food products?
Yes, but only if they are certified food-grade and have been properly cleaned and sanitized. We offer food-grade reconditioned totes that meet FDA requirements. Always verify the certification and previous contents before use.
How long do IBC totes last?
With proper care, an IBC tote can last 5-10 years or more. The HDPE bottle may eventually need replacement due to UV degradation or chemical damage, but the steel cage and pallet can last much longer.
What is the difference between 275 and 330 gallon totes?
The 275-gallon tote is the standard size (48x40x46"), while the 330-gallon is a taller version (48x40x53") that holds 20% more liquid. Both have the same footprint and pallet compatibility.
Can IBC totes be stacked?
Yes, IBC totes are designed for stacking up to 4 high when filled. The steel cage provides structural support for safe stacking. Empty totes may be stackable or nestable depending on the design.
What is a UN rated IBC tote?
UN rated totes are certified by the UN (United Nations) for transporting dangerous goods. The rating (like UN31HA1) indicates the container meets specific requirements for containing and transporting hazardous materials.
Do you buy used IBC totes?
Yes! We purchase used IBC totes in all conditions. We pay competitive prices for clean food-grade totes and also accept contaminated units for proper disposal. Contact us for a quote.
Can the bottle be replaced if damaged?
Yes, the HDPE bottle inside an IBC tote can be replaced, which is often more economical than buying a new complete unit. This is called "rebottling" and extends the cage and pallet life.
IBC Tote Services
Beyond sales, we offer comprehensive IBC tote services.
Ready to Order IBC Totes?
Contact us today for pricing on new and reconditioned IBC totes. We offer competitive rates, fast delivery, and can help you find the right solution for your liquid storage needs.
Have Used Totes to Sell?
We buy used IBC totes in all conditions. Clean food-grade totes command premium prices. Even contaminated units can be responsibly recycled.
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Need IBC Totes in Bulk?
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