Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right IBC tote depends on several factors: what you'll store, your budget, regulatory requirements, and how you'll use the container. This guide walks you through each decision point to help you make an informed choice.
Remember: the cheapest option isn't always the best value. A container that meets your actual needs will serve you better and longer than one that doesn't quite fit.
Step 1: Match Your Application
Start by identifying what you'll store. This determines most of your other requirements:
| Application | Recommended | Size | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water Storage & Irrigation | Used or Reconditioned | 330 gallon (max capacity) | $75-150 |
| Food & Beverage | Food-Grade (New preferred) | Either size | $150-350 |
| Agricultural Chemicals | Used or Reconditioned | 275 gallon (easier handling) | $75-150 |
| Industrial Chemicals (Hazmat) | New UN-Certified | Either size | $275-350 |
| Rainwater Collection | Used (clean) | 330 gallon | $75-125 |
| Fuel/Diesel Storage | Reconditioned | 330 gallon | $125-175 |
Not Sure About Chemical Compatibility?
HDPE (the plastic in IBCs) is compatible with most chemicals, but not all. Check your chemical's Safety Data Sheet (SDS) or contact us - we can help verify compatibility.
Step 2: Choose Your Size
The two standard sizes have the same footprint - only the height (and capacity) differs:
275 Gallon
Most Common Choice
- Fits under standard 8ft ceilings
- Lighter when full (~2,400 lbs)
- Easier to handle and move
- More available in used market
- Works with most forklifts
330 Gallon
Maximum Capacity
- 20% more capacity, same footprint
- Better value per gallon stored
- Ideal for bulk storage
- Requires higher ceiling (53")
- Heavier when full (~2,900 lbs)
| Feature | 275 Gallon | 330 Gallon |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 275 gallons (1,041 L) | 330 gallons (1,249 L) |
| Height | 46 inches | 53 inches |
| Footprint | 48" × 40" | 48" × 40" |
| Weight Empty | ~120 lbs | ~145 lbs |
| Weight Full (Water) | ~2,400 lbs | ~2,900 lbs |
| Price (Used) | $75-100 | $85-110 |
| Availability | Most common | Common |
| Best For | Standard warehouses, easier handling | Maximum capacity needs |
Step 3: New vs. Used vs. Reconditioned
This decision balances your budget with your requirements. Here's what each option offers:
New
$275-$350Factory-fresh, never used containers with full manufacturer warranty.
Best for: Food-grade, pharmaceutical, allergen-sensitive, hazmat transport, situations requiring documented virgin container
Pros:
- No contamination risk
- Full warranty
- UN certification valid
- Best appearance
Cons:
- Highest cost
- Not always necessary for non-critical uses
Reconditioned
$125-$175Used containers professionally cleaned, repaired, with new gaskets and verified integrity.
Best for: Food-grade (with history), general industrial, chemicals, best value for quality
Pros:
- Like-new quality
- Significant savings
- Documented cleaning
- New gaskets/parts
Cons:
- Not truly new
- Content history required for food use
- Limited warranty
Used Grade A
$95-$125Previously owned, inspected, tested containers in good condition. Not professionally cleaned.
Best for: Non-critical storage, water, general agricultural, DIY projects
Pros:
- Good value
- Functional
- Suitable for many uses
Cons:
- May have cosmetic issues
- Not food-safe
- No deep cleaning
Used Grade B/C
$75-$95Functional containers with cosmetic issues or minor damage. Still operational.
Best for: Budget projects, non-appearance critical, storage only
Pros:
- Lowest cost
- Still functional
- Good for practice/learning
Cons:
- Cosmetic issues
- May need minor repairs
- Limited uses
Step 4: Understand Certifications
Depending on your application, you may need specific certifications:
FDA Food-Grade
Materials meet FDA 21 CFR standards for food contact
Required for: Storing food ingredients, beverages, potable water
How to verify: Material compliance certificate, content history documentation
UN31HA1
UN-rated composite IBC approved for hazardous materials
Required for: Transporting hazardous chemicals (not just storing)
How to verify: UN marking on container, valid certification date (5 years)
Kosher/Halal
Containers meet religious dietary requirements
Required for: Certified food production facilities
How to verify: Certification documentation from approved agency
NSF/ANSI 61
Approved for potable water system components
Required for: Drinking water systems, municipal applications
How to verify: NSF certification mark and listing
Quick Decision Guide
| If You Need... | We Recommend... | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest possible cost | Used Grade B/C | Functional at minimum price |
| Food storage | New or Reconditioned Food-Grade | FDA compliance required |
| Chemical transport | New UN-Certified | DOT regulations require it |
| Best value | Reconditioned | Like-new quality, significant savings |
| Maximum capacity | 330 gallon | 20% more storage, same footprint |
| Easy handling | 275 gallon | Lighter, more maneuverable |
| Potable water | Food-grade (new preferred) | Safety first for drinking water |
| Agricultural use | Used or Reconditioned | Cost-effective for farm budgets |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Buying food-grade when not needed
Food-grade costs more and isn't necessary for most industrial/agricultural uses
Ignoring content history for food use
A "clean" tote that held chemicals is NOT food-safe regardless of cleaning
Choosing 330 gal without checking clearance
The extra 7" height may not fit your space or exceed forklift capacity when full
Assuming all used totes are equal
Grade, history, and condition vary widely - always ask about specifics
Skipping UN certification for hazmat
It's not optional for transporting hazardous materials - it's the law
Focusing only on price
A tote that doesn't meet your needs is no bargain at any price
Still Not Sure?
With 15+ years of experience, our team has helped thousands of Louisiana businesses find the right IBC solutions. We're happy to discuss your specific needs and recommend the best option for your application and budget.