Showing 15 of 24 published IBC Totes listings near Santa Monica, CA.
Average pricing by condition based on 16 active listings
| Condition | Avg. Price | Available Qty | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reconditioned | $75.00 | 465 | 2 |
| Rinsed | $43.00 | 200 | 2 |
| Used | $31.02 | 3,384 |
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.
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.
Different liquids need different types of containers:
Drinking water or food: Buy only food-grade containers
Showing 9 of 24 published IBC Totes listings near Santa Monica, CA.
| 12 |
Prices reflect current market averages for ibc totes in Santa Monica, CA, with 4,049 units available across all conditions. View full price index
Rainwater for gardens: Regular containers work fine
Chemicals: Check what was stored before to avoid dangerous reactions
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
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.
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
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.