IBC Tanks & Totes
Intermediate Bulk Containers for safe storage and transportation of liquids, chemicals, and bulk materials. Save up to 70% with quality used IBC tanks.
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What is an IBC Tank?
An Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC), also known as an IBC tote or IBC tank, is a reusable industrial container designed for the transport and storage of bulk liquid and granulated substances. These versatile containers bridge the gap between smaller drums and large tanker trucks, offering an efficient solution for medium-volume material handling.
The modern composite IBC consists of a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) inner bottle encased in a protective steel cage, all mounted on an integrated pallet base. This design provides exceptional strength-to-weight ratio while maintaining ease of handling with standard forklifts and pallet jacks.
IBCs were developed in the 1990s as a more efficient alternative to traditional drum packaging. A single 275-gallon IBC replaces approximately four 55-gallon drums, significantly reducing handling time, storage space requirements, and overall logistics costs.
Standard Specifications
- Capacity275-330 gallons
- Dimensions48" x 40" x 46"
- Empty Weight120-145 lbs
- Full WeightUp to 2,500 lbs
- Discharge Valve2" or 3" butterfly
- Top Opening6" or 8" screw cap
Our IBC Tank Inventory
Browse our selection of quality used IBC tanks and totes
IBC Tank Components
Understanding the parts of an IBC helps you select the right container for your application and identify components that may need replacement or repair.
Inner Bottle
The inner container is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a food-safe plastic that resists most chemicals, solvents, and acids. The bottle is blow-molded as a single piece to eliminate seams and potential leak points.
- • UV-stabilized for outdoor storage
- • Temperature range: -40°F to 140°F
- • Natural or black color options
Steel Cage
The protective cage is constructed from galvanized steel tubing welded into a rigid grid pattern. It protects the inner bottle during handling and shipping while allowing visibility of contents and fill level.
- • Galvanized for corrosion resistance
- • Stackable when full (2-3 high)
- • Lifting hooks at corners
Pallet Base
The integrated pallet allows the IBC to be moved with standard forklift equipment. Available in wood, steel, or composite plastic materials depending on application requirements.
- • Wood: Most economical
- • Plastic: Best for wet environments
- • Steel: Maximum durability
Discharge Valve
The bottom discharge valve allows controlled dispensing of contents. Common types include butterfly valves, ball valves, and cam-lock fittings. Valve selection depends on product viscosity and dispensing requirements.
- • 2" standard, 3" for viscous products
- • Butterfly valve most common
- • Easily replaceable component
Top Lid Assembly
The fill opening features a 6" or 8" screw cap with gasket for secure closure. Many IBCs include a vented cap option that allows air exchange while preventing contamination.
- • EPDM or Buna-N gaskets
- • Vented or solid cap options
- • Tamper-evident seals available
Label Plate
Most IBCs include a stainless steel or plastic label plate for permanent identification. This displays the UN rating, manufacturer information, and date of manufacture for compliance tracking.
- • UN/DOT certification info
- • Manufacturing date code
- • Maximum fill capacity
IBC Grades Available
We offer used IBC tanks in multiple grades to match your specific requirements and budget. All units are inspected and tested before sale.
Food Grade
Previously used for food-safe products only. Thoroughly cleaned and sanitized per FDA requirements. Suitable for food processing, beverages, and pharmaceutical applications.
- • Single-use or limited use history
- • FDA compliant materials
- • Complete documentation available
- • No chemical residue
Clean Chemical
Used for non-hazardous chemicals and industrial products. Clean condition with minimal cosmetic wear. Pressure washed and inspected for structural integrity.
- • Light chemical history
- • Pressure washed clean
- • Good structural integrity
- • Minor cosmetic wear acceptable
Industrial
General industrial use with visible wear including staining or cosmetic damage. Fully functional and leak-tested. Cost-effective for non-sensitive applications.
- • Visible cosmetic wear
- • May have staining
- • All units leak-tested
- • Best value option
Reconditioned
New inner bottle installed in a used steel cage with refurbished pallet. Combines cost savings with the cleanliness of new contact surfaces. New valve included.
- • Brand new HDPE bottle
- • Refurbished cage
- • New valve assembly
- • Like-new performance
Common IBC Applications
IBC tanks are used across virtually every industry that handles bulk liquids or granulated materials. Here are the most common applications we serve.
Industrial Chemicals
- Solvents and degreasers
- Acids and bases
- Cleaning compounds
- Lubricants and oils
- Paint and coatings
Food & Beverage
- Fruit juices and concentrates
- Edible oils
- Syrups and sweeteners
- Wine and spirits
- Liquid flavorings
Agriculture
- Liquid fertilizers
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Animal feed supplements
- Irrigation additives
- Seed treatments
Pharmaceutical
- Active ingredients (APIs)
- Excipients and carriers
- Purified water (USP)
- Cleaning solutions
- Process intermediates
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Shampoos and conditioners
- Liquid soaps
- Lotions and creams
- Essential oils
- Fragrances
Water & Wastewater
- Treatment chemicals
- Potable water storage
- Rainwater collection
- Wastewater transport
- Pool chemicals
IBC Tank Sizes
While the 275-gallon IBC is the industry standard, we stock various sizes to meet different volume and space requirements.
Standard Size
The most common IBC size, designed to fit standard pallet footprints (48" x 40"). Optimal for truck loading and warehouse storage. Replaces 4-5 standard drums.
Extended Capacity
Taller version of the standard IBC with approximately 20% more capacity. Same footprint as 275-gallon, increased height. Popular for high-volume applications.
Double Capacity
Large-format IBC for maximum efficiency. Requires heavy-duty forklift. Reduces handling by 50% compared to standard IBCs. Limited availability.
Benefits of Used IBC Tanks
Significant Cost Savings
Save 50-70% compared to new IBC tanks. Used tanks provide the same functionality at a fraction of the cost, making them ideal for businesses managing packaging budgets.
Environmentally Responsible
Each reused IBC saves approximately 50 lbs of plastic from manufacturing and associated carbon emissions. Choose used packaging to reduce your environmental footprint.
Quality Inspected
Every IBC is inspected for leaks, structural integrity, valve function, and cage condition. We grade products honestly and provide accurate condition descriptions.
Immediate Availability
No waiting for manufacturing lead times. Our large inventory means you can get the IBCs you need quickly, often with same-week shipping available.
Multiple Grades Available
From food-grade containers to economical industrial units, we offer IBCs for every application and budget. Match the grade to your specific requirements.
Nationwide Delivery
We arrange delivery anywhere in the continental United States. Competitive freight rates based on our shipping volume help keep your total costs low.
IBC Tank FAQs
How many times can an IBC tank be reused?
A quality IBC can be reused 5-10 times or more depending on the contents and handling. The HDPE bottle typically has a 5-year service life from the date of manufacture, though this varies by application and regulatory requirements.
Can I use a used IBC for food-grade applications?
Yes, but only Grade A food-grade IBCs that have exclusively held food-safe products. These containers maintain FDA compliance and come with documentation of their storage history. Never use chemical-grade IBCs for food applications.
How should I clean a used IBC before use?
Cleaning requirements depend on the previous contents and your intended use. For general industrial applications, pressure washing is typically sufficient. Food-grade applications may require sanitization. We can provide triple-rinsed IBCs for sensitive applications.
What is the UN rating and why does it matter?
The UN rating (e.g., UN31HA1/Y) indicates the IBC meets United Nations standards for transporting hazardous materials. The rating specifies the container type, construction material, and maximum gross weight. Required for DOT-regulated shipments.
Do you offer IBC accessories?
Yes, we stock replacement valves, lids, gaskets, and other accessories. We also offer IBC heaters, mixers, and dispensing equipment. Contact us for specific accessory needs.
What is your minimum order for IBC tanks?
We have no minimum order requirement. You can purchase a single IBC or truckload quantities. However, larger orders qualify for volume discounts and better freight rates.
Ready to Order IBC Tanks?
Contact us for current inventory and competitive pricing on used IBC tanks and totes