Buy Used IBC Totes in New York City

How to Buy Used IBC Totes in NYC: Save Money and Get What You Need

You'll save 50-80% on storage containers and get the same functionality as new ones. This guide shows you exactly how to buy used IBC totes in New York City without making costly mistakes.

What You're Actually Buying

IBC totes are large plastic containers that hold 275-330 gallons of liquid. Think of them as giant, square water bottles with a metal cage around them. They sit on pallets so you can move them with a forklift.

Most used totes measure about 45 inches wide by 45 inches long. The height depends on how much they hold. You can stack them and transport them easily.

How Much You'll Pay

Here's what used IBC totes actually cost in NYC:

Basic used totes: $40-65 each

• Dirty condition: $60-65
• Rinsed clean: $40

Better quality: $80-125 each

• Food grade rinsed: $80
• Steam cleaned: $95
• Fully reconditioned: $100-125

Bulk discounts: If you buy 12 or more, prices drop by $5-10 per tote.

The Three Types You Can Buy

Dirty Totes ($40-65)

These haven't been cleaned since their last use. You'll see residue and smell whatever was stored before. Good for non-critical storage like irrigation water or industrial use.

Example: A tote that held soap will smell like soap and have dried residue inside.

Rinsed Totes ($80-95)

Someone sprayed these out with water. They look cleaner but aren't sterilized. Good for most applications where you don't need perfect cleanliness.

Example: A tote that held fruit juice, rinsed clean but not sanitized.

Reconditioned Totes ($100-125)

These are like new. They've been pressure washed, tested for leaks, and dried completely. Use these when cleanliness matters.

Example: Perfect for storing rainwater you might use for washing or cleaning.

What Matters Most: Previous Contents

The previous contents determine everything about your tote's value and safety.

Best previous contents (worth paying more for):

• Water
• Food products like yogurt or sugar syrup
• Alcohol from distilleries
• Soap or cleaning products

Avoid these (or pay very little):

• Chemicals or pesticides
• Unknown substances
• Anything that leaves strong odors
• Hazardous materials

Real example: A tote that held maple syrup will clean easily and work great for water storage. A tote that held industrial degreaser might never be safe for anything you'll use.

Where to Buy in NYC

You have several options in the metropolitan area:

Local dealers serve all five boroughs and often deliver for free on bulk orders. Many also pick up totes you want to sell.

Drop-off locations exist around NYC and Newark, NJ for smaller purchases.

Delivery service is standard - most suppliers deliver 60 totes per truck and offer free delivery for larger orders.

Before You Buy: Ask These Questions

What was stored in it last? This determines if it's safe for your use.

Has it been cleaned? Know exactly what cleaning it received.

Are there any cracks or leaks? Check the bottom and valve especially.

Does it include the cap and valve? Some used totes are missing parts.

Can you deliver it? Factor delivery costs into your total price.

Common Uses for Used Totes

Water storage: Rainwater collection, emergency water, irrigation Gardening: Compost tea, liquid fertilizer mixing
Industrial: Non-food liquids, cleaning solutions, transport Emergency prep: Backup water supply, bulk storage

Cleaning Your Used Tote

Most used totes need cleaning before use:

Empty completely - tip it upside down

Rinse with water - use a hose to spray out debris

Add cleaning solution - dish soap works for most applications

Scrub if needed - use a brush for stubborn residue

Rinse thoroughly - no soap residue left behind

Dry completely - prevent mold and bacteria

For totes that held chemicals, hire professional cleaning services.

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy if:

• The seller won't tell you what was stored inside
• You see cracks, especially in corners or bottom
• The valve leaks when you test it
• It smells like chemicals or pesticides
• The price seems too good to be true

Getting the Best Deal

Buy in bulk - 12+ totes usually gets you a discount

Pick up yourself - save on delivery charges for small orders

Buy dirty and clean yourself - saves $20-40 per tote if you don't mind the work

Check multiple suppliers - prices vary significantly between dealers

Bottom Line

Used IBC totes give you professional-grade storage at a fraction of the cost. Focus on previous contents over appearance - a dirty tote that held food is better than a clean one that held chemicals.

Start with one tote to test your application, then buy in bulk once you know what works. Most buyers find that rinsed, food-grade totes offer the best balance of price and usability.

You'll save hundreds compared to buying new, and get containers that last for years with proper care.