Buy Used IBC Totes in Los Lunas

Save Money on Bulk Storage: Your Guide to Buying Used IBC Totes in Los Lunas, NM

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to buy quality used IBC totes at 50-70% less than new ones, where to find them locally, and how to inspect them safely.

What Are IBC Totes and Why Buy Used?

IBC totes are large plastic containers inside metal cages. Think of them as giant water jugs for businesses. They hold 275-330 gallons and are perfect for storing:

• Water for farms
• Chemicals for manufacturing
• Food ingredients for restaurants
• Liquid fertilizers

Why buy used instead of new?

• Save $200-400 per container
• Help the environment by reusing containers
• Get the same functionality at a fraction of the cost

For example, a farmer in Los Lunas might pay $500 for a new food-grade tote, but find a used one for $150 that works just as well.

Where to Find Used IBC Totes in Los Lunas

Local recycling centers:

• Los Lunas Recycling Center
• Earth Day Recycling Co
• Valencia Regional Landfill and Recycling Center
• Conejo Collection Center

What to expect: These places get containers from businesses that no longer need them. Prices range from $50-150 depending on condition.

Agricultural supply stores:

• Local farm supply shops sometimes have used totes from feed companies
• Ask managers if they know farmers selling containers

Online marketplaces:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Craigslist
• Local classified ads

Pro tip: Call ahead. Most places don't keep large inventories, so availability changes weekly.

How to Inspect a Used IBC Tote

Step 1: Check the plastic bottle inside

• Look for cracks, especially at corners
• Check for stains or strong odors
• Avoid containers with cloudy or discolored plastic

Step 2: Examine the metal cage

• Look for rust, especially at weld points
• Make sure the cage isn't bent or dented
• Check that the pallet base is sturdy

Step 3: Test the valve

• Turn it on and off several times
• Make sure it closes completely
• Check for leaks around the valve

Step 4: Verify the cap

• Ensure it screws on tightly
• Look for cracks in the threading
• Make sure the gasket is flexible, not hard

Red flags to avoid:

• Strong chemical smells
• Visible cracks anywhere
• Rust that flakes off when touched
• Valves that stick or leak

Pricing and Negotiation Tips

Typical prices in Los Lunas:

• Excellent condition: $100-150
• Good condition: $75-125
• Fair condition: $50-100

How to negotiate:

• Buy multiple containers for bulk discounts
• Offer to pick up immediately
• Point out minor flaws to justify lower prices
• Be flexible on pickup times

Example negotiation: "I see this valve needs replacing, which costs $25. Would you take $100 instead of $125?"

Getting Your Totes Home

Transportation options:

• Rent a pickup truck or trailer
• Use a moving company
• Hire a local hauler

Important: IBC totes are heavy (about 130 pounds empty) and awkward to move. Always use proper lifting equipment.

Storage tips:

• Keep containers out of direct sunlight
• Store on level ground
• Cover with tarps if storing outside
• Stack carefully (maximum 2 high for used containers)

Legal and Safety Requirements

Before you buy, know:

• What was previously stored in the container
• Whether it's rated for your intended use
• If it needs cleaning or recertification

Food-grade containers: Must be properly cleaned if switching from non-food use

Chemical storage: Requires containers rated for specific chemicals

Contact Valencia County Public Works Department for disposal guidelines when containers reach end of life.

Step-by-Step Buying Process

Week 1: Research and locate

• Call local recycling centers
• Check online listings
• Visit agricultural suppliers

Week 2: Inspect and negotiate

• Visit containers in person
• Use inspection checklist
• Negotiate price and terms

Week 3: Arrange transport

• Rent appropriate vehicle
• Schedule pickup
• Prepare storage area

Week 4: Final setup

• Clean containers if needed
• Test all valves and fittings
• Set up in final location

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying without inspecting first
• Not checking what was previously stored
• Forgetting about transportation costs
• Buying containers too damaged to use safely
• Not having proper storage space ready

Final Thoughts

Buying used IBC totes in Los Lunas can save you hundreds of dollars while meeting your storage needs. Focus on thorough inspection, fair pricing, and safe transportation. With patience and careful evaluation, you'll find quality containers that serve your business for years to come.

Remember: A good used container that meets your needs is always better than a cheap one that doesn't work properly.