IBC FAQ
Quick answers to the most common questions about used IBC totes.
Have questions about IBC containers, our services, or working with us? This comprehensive FAQ covers the most common questions we receive from customers. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us directly and we'll be happy to help.
Buying reconditioned IBCs
What grades of IBCs do you offer?
We offer Grade A (like-new, clear bottles), Grade B (good condition with cosmetic wear), and single-trip containers. Each grade is inspected and cleaned. Grade selection depends on your application and budget.
What's included in the price?
All containers include inspection, cleaning appropriate to grade, valve testing, and documentation. Delivery can be arranged separately or included in bundled pricing for larger orders.
Do you have minimum order quantities?
No minimum for local pickup. For delivery, minimums vary by distance—typically 4-6 containers for local delivery, full truckloads (20+) for longer distances are most economical.
Can I see containers before buying?
Yes. You're welcome to visit our facility to inspect containers. For large orders, we can send photos of the specific lot you'll receive. We also offer satisfaction guarantees.
Do you offer warranties?
All containers are guaranteed to match their grade description at delivery. Structural and valve issues discovered within 30 days of delivery will be addressed. Terms vary by grade and application.
Can you match specific previous contents?
In many cases, yes. We track previous contents and can often source containers with specific product history. This is particularly useful for food-grade and chemical applications where compatibility matters.
Selling your used IBCs
Do you buy totes with residue?
Yes, as long as the product history is disclosed and the tote passes basic inspection. We need to know what was in the container to handle and clean it properly. Some hazardous residues may require special arrangements.
How do you determine prices for used IBCs?
Prices depend on condition, age, previous contents, configuration (pallet type, valve), and quantity. Food-grade containers with clean history typically command higher prices. We provide quotes based on photos or inspection.
Can you pick up across state lines?
Yes. We operate multi-state routes and coordinate with approved carriers for longer distances. Pickup costs depend on location and quantity. Large quantities often justify longer pickup distances.
What information do you need for a quote?
Quantity, approximate condition, previous contents, container age (if known), pallet type, and your location. Photos are helpful but not required for initial quotes.
Do you buy damaged containers?
We buy containers with minor damage that can be repaired economically. Severely damaged containers may only have salvage value. We can assess during pickup or from photos.
How quickly can you pick up?
Typical pickup scheduling is within 1-2 weeks. Rush pickup may be available for additional fees. We work with your schedule and can coordinate around your operations.
Reconditioning process
What is included in reconditioning?
Standard reconditioning includes 47-point inspection, appropriate cleaning (industrial or food-grade), valve testing and gasket replacement as needed, cage straightening, and pallet repair. Additional services like rebottling are available.
How do you clean containers?
We use automated wash systems with heated water and appropriate cleaning agents. Food-grade containers use FDA-approved agents on dedicated equipment. Every wash is documented with temperature, time, and agent records.
Can you recondition containers I provide?
Yes. We offer contract reconditioning where you send us your containers and we clean, inspect, and repair them to your specifications. Contact us for pricing based on your needs.
What happens if a container can't be reconditioned?
Containers with damage beyond economical repair are recycled. We recover value from materials (HDPE plastic, steel) and ensure responsible disposal of any residue or non-recyclable components.
How long does reconditioning take?
Standard processing takes 1-3 business days depending on cleaning requirements and repair needs. Large quantities may take longer. Rush processing is available for urgent needs.
Do reconditioned containers maintain UN certification?
Properly reconditioned containers can maintain their UN certification for hazmat use when cleaned and inspected according to regulations. We verify and document UN status for applicable containers.
Food-grade containers
What makes a container "food-grade"?
Food-grade containers are cleaned with FDA-approved agents on dedicated equipment, have acceptable previous content history (food products only), and come with documentation supporting food safety compliance.
Do you track allergens?
Yes. We track containers with allergen-containing previous contents and process them separately. Allergen-free containers are available for sensitive applications. Documentation includes allergen status.
Can you provide documentation for audits?
Yes. Food-grade containers include wash certificates, material documentation, previous content history, and chain of custody. We support SQF, BRC, FSSC 22000, and other audit requirements.
How long are food-grade containers good after cleaning?
We recommend using food-grade cleaned containers within 90 days. Longer storage may require recleaning depending on storage conditions and your quality requirements.
Chemical and industrial use
Can I use reconditioned IBCs for hazmat?
Yes, with proper matching. UN-certified containers can be reused for hazardous materials within their certification parameters. We verify UN status and help match containers to your requirements.
How do I know if HDPE is compatible with my product?
HDPE is compatible with most chemicals, but some require verification. We can advise on general compatibility, but recommend consulting chemical resistance charts or your product supplier for specific products.
Do you offer grounding lugs for flammable products?
Many IBC cages have grounding provisions. We verify and document grounding lug presence for containers intended for flammable materials. Grounding is the user's responsibility to implement.
Can you handle my hazmat containers?
In most cases, yes, with proper documentation of previous contents. Some particularly hazardous materials may require special handling arrangements. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.
Delivery and logistics
What's your delivery area?
We deliver throughout the region with our own trucks and partner with carriers for longer distances. Delivery costs depend on location and quantity. Contact us for specific delivery quotes.
Can you stack IBCs on delivery trucks?
Yes. Empty and properly secured full IBCs can be stacked on trucks. This maximizes delivery efficiency and reduces per-unit shipping costs. Driver will use appropriate securing methods.
What unloading equipment do I need?
A forklift capable of handling full IBC weight (up to 3,000 lbs for dense products) with forks at least 42" long. We can discuss alternative arrangements if you don't have a forklift.
Do you offer scheduled delivery programs?
Yes. For customers with regular needs, we can set up weekly or bi-weekly delivery schedules. This ensures consistent supply and can include return pickup for empties.
Pricing and payment
How do your prices compare to new IBCs?
Reconditioned IBCs typically cost 40-70% less than new containers depending on grade. Single-trip containers fall between reconditioned and new pricing. Volume discounts improve savings further.
Do you offer volume discounts?
Yes. Pricing improves with quantity. Truckload quantities (20+ containers) receive the best per-unit pricing. We also offer contract pricing for customers with regular, ongoing needs.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept business checks, credit cards, ACH transfers, and wire transfers. Net terms available for qualified business accounts with credit application.
Do you offer net terms?
Yes, for qualified business accounts. New customers typically start COD or prepay, with net terms available after establishing account history. Credit application required.
Sustainability
How does using reconditioned IBCs help the environment?
Each reused IBC saves approximately 80 lbs of plastic from production, reduces carbon emissions versus new manufacturing, and keeps containers out of landfills. Most IBCs can be reused multiple times.
What happens to containers that can't be reused?
We recycle materials—HDPE bottles are chipped for recycled plastic markets, steel cages go to metal recyclers. We maintain high recycling rates and partner with certified facilities.
Can you provide sustainability documentation?
Yes. We can provide recycling certificates and sustainability reports for customers tracking environmental metrics or reporting for ESG programs.
What's your water usage in cleaning?
Our closed-loop wash systems recover 95% of wash water through filtration and treatment. We continuously work to minimize water and energy use in our operations.
General questions
How long have you been in business?
We've been reconditioning and trading IBCs since 2011. Our team brings decades of combined experience in the IBC and industrial container industry.
Can I tour your facility?
Yes. We welcome customers to tour our operations. Please contact us to schedule a visit. Tours typically take 30-45 minutes and can include discussion of your specific needs.
Do you have inventory available for immediate purchase?
Yes. We maintain regular inventory of common grades and configurations. Specialty requirements or large quantities may require lead time. Contact us to check current availability.
How do I get started?
Contact us by email or through our website form. Tell us what you need (buying, selling, or services) and we'll respond promptly with information and pricing.
Still have questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our team is ready to help with your specific questions about IBCs, our services, or how we can meet your container needs.