Buy Used IBC Totes in Wheat Ridge

Find Affordable Used IBC Totes Near Wheat Ridge, CO

What You'll Get From This Guide

You'll discover how to buy quality used 275-gallon and 330-gallon containers for 50-80% less than new ones. Plus, you'll learn what to look for to avoid costly mistakes.

Why Buy Used IBC Totes?

Save serious money. New containers cost $300-500 each. Used ones start at $50.

Your business gets the same storage capacity without the hefty price tag. Perfect for water storage, liquid transport, or chemical containment.

Where to Find Used IBC Totes in Your Area

Local Recycling Centers

Several recycling facilities within 10 miles of Wheat Ridge offer used containers:

What they typically offer:

• Food-grade steam cleaned containers: $120-140 each
• Agricultural-grade cleaned containers: $100 each
• Industrial-grade containers: $50-100 each
• Free delivery on orders over 5 units

Standard container specs:

• Size: 46" tall × 40" wide × 48" long
• Weight when empty: 130-165 pounds
• Top filling port: 6 inches
• Bottom discharge valve: 2 inches
• Built-in forklift pallet base

Industrial Surplus Dealers

These businesses buy containers from manufacturers and resell them:

What you'll find:

• Mix of 275-gallon and 330-gallon sizes
• Reconditioned units with new parts
• One-time-use containers (like-new condition)
• Bulk pricing for large orders

Online Marketplaces

Several Colorado-based dealers offer statewide delivery:

Benefits:

• Free pickup service for your location
• Competitive pricing across the state
• Both food-grade and industrial options
• Nationwide shipping available

How to Choose the Right Container

Step 1: Know Your Previous Contents

Ask what was stored in the container before you buy it.

Safe for food/water:

• Fruit juice
• Vegetable oil
• Food-grade chemicals
• Pharmaceutical ingredients

Avoid for food/water:

• Automotive fluids
• Industrial solvents
• Pesticides
• Unknown chemicals

Step 2: Pick Your Cleaning Level

More cleaning costs more money but gives you safer containers.

Basic rinse: $50-70 each Good for storing non-food items like fertilizer or soap.

Triple wash: $80-100 each
Safe for most agricultural uses and some food products.

Steam cleaning: $120-140 each Required for drinking water and direct food contact.

Step 3: Check the Physical Condition

Inspect these parts before buying:

Metal cage: Look for rust, dents, or bent bars

Plastic bottle: Check for cracks or cloudy areas

Valve: Make sure it opens and closes smoothly

Cap: Ensure it seals tightly

Pricing Guide by Container Type

Food-Grade Containers

• Steam cleaned: $120-140 each
• As-is (not cleaned): $100-120 each
• Best for: Food processing, drinking water, restaurants

Agricultural-Grade Containers

• Cleaned and tested: $80-100 each
• Best for: Irrigation water, liquid fertilizer, animal feed

Industrial-Grade Containers

• Grade A (excellent): $80-100 each
• Grade B (good): $60-80 each
• Grade C (fair/damaged): $50-60 each
• Best for: Chemicals, cleaning supplies, manufacturing

Smart Buying Tips

Start Small

Buy one or two containers first. Test them with your specific needs before ordering more.

Plan Your Transport

These containers weigh 130-165 pounds empty. You'll need:

• Forklift or pallet jack for moving
• Flatbed truck or trailer for transport
• Help loading and unloading

Verify Certifications

Look for these markings on the container:

• UN/DOT approval numbers
• Food-grade certification (if needed)
• Maximum weight capacity
• Manufacturing date

Ask About Guarantees

Good suppliers offer:

• 30-day return policy for defective containers
• Replacement guarantee for leaking units
• Technical support for proper use

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying without inspecting: Always check the container in person or ask for detailed photos.

Ignoring previous contents: A container that held motor oil will never be safe for food.

Forgetting about delivery: Factor in transport costs when comparing prices.

Mixing food and non-food: Use separate containers for different types of materials.

Getting the Best Deal

Buy in Bulk

Most suppliers offer discounts for orders of 5+ containers:

• 5-10 units: 10% discount
• 11-25 units: 15% discount
• 26+ units: 20% discount

Time Your Purchase

Best prices typically happen:

• End of month (suppliers clearing inventory)
• Winter months (lower demand)
• After major industry events

Negotiate Delivery

Many suppliers waive delivery fees for:

• Orders over $500
• Repeat customers
• Flexible delivery schedules

Final Thoughts

Used IBC totes offer huge savings for Colorado businesses. Focus on finding containers with known previous contents and appropriate cleaning levels for your needs.

Start with one supplier, test their quality, then build a relationship for future purchases. The money you save can go toward growing your business instead of expensive new containers.