Buy Used IBC Totes in Aurora

Save Money on Liquid Storage: Where to Buy Used IBC Totes in Aurora, Colorado

What you'll get from this guide: Find reliable suppliers, save 50-70% on storage costs, and get containers delivered free to your business.

What Are IBC Totes and Why You Need Them

IBC totes are big plastic containers in metal cages. Think of them as giant water bottles that hold 275 or 330 gallons. They're perfect for storing and moving liquids like water, chemicals, oils, or food ingredients.

Why businesses love them:

• Hold as much as five 55-gallon drums in one container
• Easy to move with forklifts
• Stack safely to save space
• Much cheaper than buying new

Who Uses IBC Totes in Aurora

Farmers use them for irrigation water and liquid fertilizer storage. A greenhouse cooperative near Aurora bought 200 used totes and saved 55% on costs while reducing plastic waste by 3,000 pounds.

Food companies store syrups, oils, and juices in food-grade versions.

Manufacturers use them for chemicals, solvents, and other industrial liquids.

Emergency services turn them into portable water supplies during disasters.

What You'll Pay

Here's what used IBC totes cost in Aurora:

275-Gallon Containers:

• Used (uncleaned): $85-$120
• Cleaned and tested: $130-$295
• You get back: $15-$70 when you return them

330-Gallon Containers:

• Used (uncleaned): $100-$140
• Cleaned and tested: $180-$364
• You get back: $20-$80 when you return them

Money-saving tip: Buy in bulk during off-season months. Orders over a full truckload get up to 30% discounts.

What to Look For When Buying

Safety Certifications

Look for these labels on the container:

• UN31HA1/Y: Safe for transporting liquids
• Food-grade certified: Safe for food and drinks
• Pressure tested: Won't leak under normal use

Container Condition

Good suppliers will:

• Pressure test each container
• Clean them three times (called "triple rinsed")
• Replace worn seals and gaskets
• Provide paperwork proving they're safe to use

Legal Requirements in Colorado

For most businesses: You can use cleaned containers without special permits.

For food companies: Keep cleaning records and FDA compliance papers.

For chemical storage: Follow spill prevention rules and use proper labeling.

For everyone: Have a plan for containing spills if you store containers outside.

Smart Buying Tips

Before You Buy

Visit the supplier's facility to see how they clean containers

Ask for references from other customers

Get clear prices for delivery and pickup

Understand the return policy for damaged containers

When You Receive Them

Check each container for cracks or dents

Test the valves and fittings

Keep all paperwork for inspections

Mark containers clearly with what you'll store

Save Even More Money

• Order during winter when demand is lower
• Join with other businesses for bulk orders
• Set up automatic pickup when containers are empty
• Choose suppliers that offer trade-in credits

Environmental Benefits

Buying used IBC totes helps the environment:

• Keeps plastic and steel out of landfills
• Reduces need for new container manufacturing
• Cuts transportation costs and fuel use
• Supports Colorado's waste reduction goals

Aurora recycling facilities reuse over 90% of IBC materials, creating a cycle that benefits everyone.

Getting Started

Step 1: Figure out how many containers you need and what size.

Step 2: Contact local suppliers for quotes. Ask about:

• Delivery costs and timing
• Minimum order requirements
• Return credit programs
• Cleaning and certification standards

Step 3: Start with a small order to test the supplier's quality and service.

Step 4: Build a relationship with reliable suppliers for ongoing needs.

Quick Reference: Key Questions to Ask Suppliers

• What cleaning process do you use?
• Are containers pressure tested?
• What certifications do you provide?
• How much do you pay for returned containers?
• What's included in delivery costs?
• Do you offer emergency replacement containers?

Bottom line: Used IBC totes can cut your liquid storage costs in half while supporting environmental goals. Aurora has reliable suppliers who deliver quality containers with proper certifications. Start small, build relationships with good suppliers, and buy in bulk when possible to maximize savings.