Buy Used IBC Totes in Charlotte

Save Money on Bulk Storage: Your Guide to Buying Used IBC Totes in Charlotte

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to find quality used IBC totes in Charlotte for 50-80% less than new containers, understand what to look for when buying, and avoid costly mistakes.

What Are IBC Totes and Why Buy Used?

IBC totes are large plastic containers that hold 275 to 330 gallons of liquid or dry materials. Think of them as super-sized water jugs with metal cages around them for protection.

Here's why buying used makes sense:

• Save big money: Used totes cost $40-70 vs $200-400 for new ones
• Get the same function: A clean used tote works just like a new one
• Help the environment: Reusing containers keeps them out of landfills

What Can You Use IBC Totes For?

These containers work for many purposes:

• Water storage: Rainwater collection, emergency water supply
• Farming: Livestock watering, liquid fertilizer storage
• Business use: Chemical storage, food ingredients, cleaning supplies
• Home projects: Aquaponics systems, bulk soap making

For example, a farmer might use three 330-gallon totes to collect rainwater from their barn roof, saving hundreds of dollars on water bills.

Types of Used IBC Totes You'll Find

Dirty/As-Is ($40-50)

• Just emptied, needs cleaning
• Good for non-food uses like irrigation water

Rinsed ($50-65)

• Basic cleaning done
• Fine for most industrial uses

Food Grade ($65-70)

• Previously held food products
• Triple-washed and safe for potable water
• Best choice if you'll store drinking water

What to Check Before You Buy

Look at the Container

• No cracks: Run your hand along all surfaces
• Valve works: Turn it on and off smoothly
• No strong smells: Avoid anything that smells like chemicals
• Labels are readable: You need to see what was stored before

Ask These Questions

• What was stored in it last?
• When was it last cleaned?
• Are there any inspection records?
• Can I see inside the container?

For example, a tote that held corn syrup is perfect for water storage. But avoid one that held industrial chemicals unless you know exactly what you're doing.

Where to Find Used IBC Totes in Charlotte

Online Marketplaces

• Individual sellers often list 275-gallon totes for $75
• 330-gallon units typically cost $100
• Always inspect before buying

Industrial Suppliers

• RePackify serves Charlotte and offers various conditions
• They provide delivery and can help match you with the right container
• Better quality control than individual sellers

Local Businesses

• Food processing companies sometimes sell their used containers
• Chemical companies may have clean totes available
• Call around to manufacturers in your area

Size Guide: Pick the Right Container

275-Gallon Totes

• Size: 40" x 48" base, 46" tall
• Good for: Small farms, home use, limited space
• Example: Perfect for a backyard rainwater system

330-Gallon Totes

• Size: 40" x 48" base, 53" tall
• Good for: Larger operations, commercial use
• Example: Ideal for watering a large garden or small farm

Both sizes fit on standard pallets and can be moved with a forklift or pallet jack.

Safety Rules You Must Follow

For Drinking Water Storage

• Only buy food-grade containers
• Clean thoroughly before first use
• Store away from direct sunlight
• Replace if you see any damage

For Chemical Storage

• Match the container to your chemical
• Check compatibility charts
• Follow all local regulations
• Get proper training for handling

Required Inspections for Commercial Use

If you're using totes for business:

• Visual inspection every 30 months
• Pressure testing every 30 months
• Internal inspection every 5 years

How to Clean Your Used IBC Tote

Empty completely: Remove all old contents

Rinse with hot water: Use a hose to wash out residue

Use appropriate cleaner: Dish soap for food containers, stronger cleaners for industrial use

Rinse again: Make sure no cleaning products remain

Let dry completely: Moisture can cause problems later

For example, if you're converting a food-grade syrup container for water storage, hot water and dish soap will do the job perfectly.

Pricing Guide for Charlotte

Based on current market data:

• Used Dirty: $40-50
• Used Rinsed: $50-65
• Food Grade Rinsed: $65-70
• Premium Reconditioned: $70-90

Charlotte has some of the lowest IBC tote prices in North Carolina, with an average of around $50 for good condition containers.

Red Flags: What to Avoid

Don't buy if you see:

• Cracks or warping in the plastic
• Rust on the metal cage
• Strong chemical odors
• Missing or unreadable labels
• Valves that don't work properly
• Prices that seem too good to be true

Be extra careful with:

• Containers that held unknown chemicals
• Very cheap totes without inspection
• Sellers who won't let you examine the container
• Containers without proper UN/DOT markings

Getting the Best Deal

Buy in bulk: Many sellers offer discounts for multiple containers

Be flexible on pickup: You'll pay less if you can pick up yourself

Check multiple sources: Prices can vary by $20-30 between sellers

Time your purchase: End of quarter or year may bring better prices

For example, buying 5 totes instead of 1 might save you $10-15 per container.

Your Next Steps

Decide what you need: Water storage, chemicals, or other materials?

Choose your size: 275-gallon for smaller needs, 330-gallon for larger

Set your budget: Plan for $50-70 for good quality containers

Find suppliers: Check online marketplaces and contact RePackify

Inspect before buying: Never buy without seeing the container first

Plan for cleaning: Budget time and supplies for proper preparation

Bottom Line

Used IBC totes offer huge savings for bulk storage needs. In Charlotte, you can find quality containers for $40-70 that would cost $200-400 new. The key is knowing what to look for, understanding your needs, and buying from reputable sources.

Start with one container to test your setup, then expand once you know what works best for your situation. With proper care, a used IBC tote can serve you for many years at a fraction of the cost of new equipment.