Buy Used IBC Totes in Minneapolis

Save Money on Storage: How to Buy Used IBC Totes in Minneapolis

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find quality used containers for 40-70% less than new ones, what prices to expect, and how to avoid common buying mistakes.

What Are IBC Totes?

IBC totes are big plastic containers in metal cages. Think of them as industrial-sized water jugs. Most hold 275 or 330 gallons and are built to last.

They're perfect for storing:

• Water and other liquids
• Dry goods like grain or powder
• Chemicals (if properly cleaned)

The metal cage protects the plastic container during transport. You can stack them and move them with a forklift.

Why Buy Used?

Money savings: Used containers cost $40-125 vs $200-400 for new ones.

Same function: A good used container works just like a new one for most jobs.

Help the environment: Reusing containers keeps them out of landfills.

What You'll Pay in Minneapolis

Here's what you can expect:

Basic used containers: $40-65

• Previously held safe materials
• Some wear but still functional
• Good for water storage or non-food use

Food-grade containers: $80-125

• Safe for food and drinking water
• Thoroughly cleaned
• Come with certificates

Reconditioned containers: $70-110

• Professionally cleaned and tested
• Like-new condition
• Best value for important applications

Where to Find Them

Online marketplaces: RePackify connects local buyers and sellers. You can search by condition, size, and location.

Recycling companies: Many offer containers from their collection routes. Call around to see what's available.

Direct from businesses: Some companies sell their empty containers directly. Check with food processors, chemical companies, and manufacturers.

What to Look For

Check the plastic bottle:

• No cracks or holes
• No strong chemical smells
• Clean inside (you can usually see through the top)

Inspect the metal cage:

• No bent or broken bars
• All welds intact
• Forklift pockets not damaged

Ask about previous contents:

• Food products = good
• Soap or cleaning products = usually fine
• Chemicals = ask for details
• Avoid containers that held pesticides or oils

Common Sizes

275 gallons (most popular):

• Size: 48" x 40" x 46"
• Weight when full: about 2,300 pounds
• Fits on standard pallets

330 gallons:

• Slightly taller
• Same footprint as 275-gallon
• Better value per gallon

Delivery and Pickup

Most sellers deliver for $25-75 depending on distance. Free delivery is common for orders of 4+ containers.

You can also pick up yourself with a truck or trailer. Bring help - even empty containers weigh 140-180 pounds.

What to Avoid

Skip containers that held:

• Pesticides or herbicides
• Motor oil or petroleum products
• Unknown chemicals

Watch out for:

• Extremely low prices (often means damage or contamination)
• Sellers who won't tell you previous contents
• Containers with strong odors that won't wash out

Getting Started

Decide what you need: How many containers and what size?

Set your budget: Plan for the container plus delivery

Check local options: Start with nearby suppliers to save on shipping

Ask questions: What did it hold? Any damage? Delivery cost?

Inspect before buying: Look at photos or see in person if possible

Simple Rules for Success

For water storage: Any clean container works. Food-grade is nice but not required.

For food products: Only buy certified food-grade containers.

For resale: Stick to containers that held soap, food, or other safe materials.

For farm use: Most containers work fine, just clean thoroughly first.

The Minneapolis area has plenty of good used containers available. Take your time, ask questions, and you'll find quality containers that save you money and work great for years.