Buy Used IBC Totes in Columbus

How to Buy Used IBC Totes in Columbus, Ohio: Save Money and Find Quality Containers

What you'll gain from this guide: You'll learn how to buy used IBC totes in Columbus for about $70 each (instead of $200+ for new ones), where to find them, what to look for, and how to stay safe and legal.

What Are IBC Totes and Why Buy Used?

IBC totes are large plastic containers inside metal cages. Think of them as giant water jugs that hold 275 to 330 gallons. They're perfect for storing liquids like water, chemicals, or food ingredients.

Here's why buying used makes sense:

• Save 60-80% compared to new totes
• Get containers that work just as well
• Help the environment by reusing
• Find them easily in Columbus

For example, a new food-grade tote costs $200-300. A used one in good condition costs $50-150.

Three Types of Used Totes You'll Find

Rinsed Totes ($50-80)

• Cleaned with high-pressure water
• Good for storing non-food liquids
• Perfect for rainwater collection or industrial use

Rebottled Totes ($100-200)

• New plastic liner inside the old cage
• Safe for food and drinks
• Best choice if you need food-grade quality

Reconditioned Totes ($70-120)

• Fixed and cleaned thoroughly
• Good for most industrial uses
• Might have small dents but work perfectly

Where to Buy in Columbus

Local Options:

• Industrial supply companies in Columbus carry various types
• Recycling centers often have cleaned totes ready to sell
• Manufacturing facilities sometimes sell their used containers

Online Sources:

• RePackify offers delivery throughout Ohio
• Search for "used IBC totes Columbus" to find current inventory
• Many sellers offer bulk discounts for 10+ totes

What to Check Before You Buy

Look at the Container:

• Check for cracks in the plastic
• Make sure the valve opens and closes without leaking
• Inspect the metal cage for rust or broken welds

Ask These Questions:

• What was stored in it before?
• Has it been cleaned properly?
• Do you have any cleaning certificates?
• Can you deliver it, and what does that cost?

Example: If someone stored maple syrup in a tote, it's probably fine for food use. If they stored industrial chemicals, stick to non-food uses even after cleaning.

Prices You Should Expect

Average Columbus Prices:

• Single tote: $70-100
• 5-10 totes: $60-80 each
• 20+ totes: $50-70 each

Extra Costs to Consider:

• Delivery: $25-75 depending on distance
• Weekend delivery: Usually costs extra
• Special cleaning: $20-50 per tote

Legal and Safety Rules

You Must Follow These Rules:

• Use spill containment that holds 110% of the tote's volume
• Keep records of what you store
• Follow hazardous material rules if storing chemicals

For Example: If you store 275 gallons of liquid, your spill containment must hold at least 300 gallons.

Simple Safety Steps:

• Store totes on level ground
• Keep them away from sharp objects
• Check them monthly for damage
• Train anyone who handles them

Getting Them Delivered and Stored

Delivery Tips:

• Most suppliers deliver during regular business hours
• You'll need a forklift or loading dock
• Plan for trucks that need room to maneuver

Storage Basics:

• Keep totes on concrete if possible
• Protect from extreme cold (plastic can crack)
• Cover from direct sunlight to prevent aging
• Leave space between totes for inspection

Making Smart Buying Decisions

Start Small: Buy one or two totes first to test quality and your supplier.

Think Long-Term: A well-maintained used tote can last 10+ years with proper care.

Consider Your Needs:

• Need food-grade? Pay extra for rebottled totes
• Just storing water? Rinsed totes work fine
• Industrial use? Reconditioned totes offer the best value

Build Supplier Relationships: Good suppliers will help you find exactly what you need and often offer better prices to repeat customers.

Why This Matters for Your Business

Used IBC totes help Columbus businesses cut costs while getting reliable storage. Whether you're a small manufacturer needing chemical storage or a homesteader collecting rainwater, buying smart saves money and reduces waste.

The key is knowing what to look for, where to shop, and how to stay safe and legal. With average savings of $100-200 per tote, the research time pays off quickly.

Bottom Line: Used IBC totes in Columbus offer excellent value when you know what you're doing. Follow this guide, and you'll find quality containers at fair prices while avoiding common mistakes.