Shop From Local Manufacturers & Sellers of IBC Totes.
What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to cut storage costs by 50-70% while helping the environment by buying used industrial containers in Louisiana.
IBC totes are large plastic tanks in metal cages. Think of them as giant milk jugs that hold 275 or 330 gallons. They're cube-shaped and sit on pallets so forklifts can move them easily.
Why people choose used over new:
Real example: A brewery in New Orleans saved $3,000 by buying 20 used totes instead of new ones for water storage.
Used Dirty - $60-65
Rinsed Clean - $85-95
Like New - $110-130
You can find used IBC totes in these areas:
Delivery options:
CityConditionPrice EachNew OrleansUsed Dirty$65EuniceUsed Dirty$60LockportLike New$110WestwegoUsed Dirty$60
Prices change based on supply and demand
For any use:
Are there cracks in the plastic tank?
Does the metal cage have rust or damage?
Do the valves work properly?
Is the top cap tight?
For food or drinks:
Is it certified food-grade?
What was stored in it before?
Has it been properly cleaned?
For shipping hazardous materials:
Does it have UN/DOT certification?
When does the certification expire?
Start small: Buy 1-2 totes first to test quality and service.
Buy in bulk: Most suppliers give discounts for 10+ totes. One farm saved $15 per tote by ordering 25 instead of 5.
Ask about free services:
Time your purchase: Prices are often lower in winter when demand drops.
Call or email with your needs (how many, what condition, where you are)
Get a quote including delivery costs
Schedule delivery or pickup
Inspect on arrival before paying
Pay and get paperwork (important for food-grade or hazardous materials)
Q: Are used totes safe for drinking water? A: Yes, if they're food-grade certified and properly cleaned. Always ask what was stored before.
Q: How long do they last? A: With normal use, 5-10 years. The plastic tank usually wears out before the metal cage.
Q: Can I return them if they don't work? A: Most suppliers offer 30-day returns for defective totes, but not for buyer's remorse.
Used IBC totes in Louisiana cost 50-70% less than new ones. You get the same storage capacity while helping the environment.
Best deals: Contact suppliers directly, buy in bulk, and time purchases for off-peak seasons.
Red flags: Avoid totes with cracks, heavy rust, or unknown previous contents for food applications.
Start with a small order to test quality, then scale up once you find a reliable supplier.