Buy Used IBC Totes in Santa Monica

How to Buy Used IBC Totes in Santa Monica - Save Money and Help the Environment

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to buy quality used IBC totes for 80% less than new ones, avoid common mistakes, and find reliable sellers in Santa Monica.

What Are IBC Totes and Why Buy Used?

IBC totes are large plastic containers that hold 275-330 gallons of liquid. Think of them as industrial-sized water tanks with metal cages around them for protection. They're perfect for storing water, chemicals, or other liquids.

Why buy used instead of new?

• Save $200-400 per container
• Help reduce plastic waste
• Get containers that often work just as well as new ones
• Many used totes are already cleaned and certified

For example, a new food-grade IBC tote costs $200-300. A used one in good condition costs $35-60.

What You Need to Know Before Buying

Step 1: Know What You'll Store

Different liquids need different types of containers:

• Drinking water or food: Buy only food-grade containers
• Rainwater for gardens: Regular containers work fine
• Chemicals: Check what was stored before to avoid dangerous reactions

Step 2: Check the Container's History

Always ask: "What was stored in this container before?"

• Avoid containers that held toxic chemicals if you're storing food or water
• Containers that held soap or fertilizer can often be cleaned for non-food use

Step 3: Inspect Before You Buy

Look for these problems:

• Cracks in the plastic tank
• Rust on the metal cage
• Broken discharge valve at the bottom
• Bad smells inside
• Bent or damaged base

Where to Find Used IBC Totes in Santa Monica

Online Options

RePackify has 295 containers available in Santa Monica (ZIP code 90405). You can see photos, prices, and delivery options online. Prices range from $10-60 depending on condition.

Local Suppliers

Check these types of businesses:

• Industrial supply stores
• Packaging companies
• Chemical distributors
• Food processing facilities (they often sell used containers)

Call ahead to ask about inventory. Many places don't advertise IBC totes but have them available.

Current Prices in Santa Monica (2025)

Here's what you can expect to pay:

• Basic industrial containers: $10-25 each
• Food-grade containers: $35-60 each
• Bulk orders (50+ units): 10-20% discount
• Delivery within Santa Monica: Usually $50-100

Prices dropped 28% in the past year due to increased supply in Los Angeles area.

Safety and Inspection Checklist

Before using any used container:

Check the plastic tank:

• Run your hand inside to feel for cracks
• Look for discoloration or stains
• Smell inside - it should not have strong odors

Check the metal cage:

• Look for rust, especially at joints
• Make sure bars aren't bent
• Check that the cage sits evenly

Test the valve:

• Open and close the bottom spigot several times
• Check for leaks when closed
• Make sure it turns smoothly

For food or drinking water:

• Only buy containers marked "food grade"
• Ask for cleaning certificates
• Consider having them professionally cleaned again

Moving and Installing Your Containers

Delivery options:

• Flatbed truck can bring 60 containers at once
• Smaller trucks for 1-10 containers
• Some suppliers offer free delivery in Santa Monica

What you need to unload:

• Forklift or pallet jack
• Flat, solid ground
• Space for truck to maneuver

Setting up:

• Place on level ground to prevent tipping
• Leave space between containers for maintenance
• Install proper connections for your intended use

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not checking container history - Could lead to contamination

Buying without seeing the container - Photos don't show everything

Forgetting about delivery costs - Can add $50-200 to your total

Not testing the valve - Replacement valves cost $20-40

Buying the wrong grade - Food-grade costs more but may be required

Getting the Best Deal

Buy in bulk: Order 10+ containers for better prices and delivery rates.

Time your purchase: Prices are often lower in winter when demand drops.

Negotiate: Ask about discounts for cash payment or pickup instead of delivery.

Consider condition carefully: A $15 container that needs a $40 valve replacement isn't a good deal.

When to Choose New Instead of Used

Buy new containers if:

• You're storing pharmaceuticals or chemicals requiring certification
• You need containers that match exactly
• You're storing food and can't verify the container's history
• The price difference is less than $50

Summary

Used IBC totes offer huge savings and environmental benefits when bought carefully. Focus on finding containers with known history, inspect them thoroughly, and buy from reputable suppliers. In Santa Monica, expect to pay $10-60 per container depending on grade and condition.

Start by checking RePackify's local listings, then contact suppliers directly for bulk orders. Always inspect containers before finalizing your purchase, and factor in delivery costs when comparing prices.

With careful shopping, you can get industrial-quality storage for a fraction of the new price.