Save Money on Bulk Liquid Storage: Used IBC Totes in Vienna, VA
What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find affordable used IBC totes in Vienna, VA, understand different tote conditions and pricing, and discover how to choose the right container for your needs while saving up to 80% compared to new units.
Why Choose Used IBC Totes?
You'll save significant money on bulk liquid storage. A new IBC tote costs around $185, while used ones start at just $35. That's perfect for:
- Small businesses storing water or chemicals
- Farmers needing irrigation water storage
- Homeowners collecting rainwater
- Anyone who needs reliable bulk containers without the new-price premium
Where to Find Used IBC Totes in Vienna
RePackify (Ashburn & Sterling locations)
- Specializes in 275 gallon and 330 gallon used IBCs
- Serves Vienna area with pickup and delivery
- Basic used totes: $35
- Rinsed totes: $50
- Like-new condition: $125
Understanding Tote Sizes and Specs
275 Gallon IBC Totes:
- Size: 40 inches long × 48 inches wide × 46 inches high
- Weight when empty: about 135 pounds
- Best for: Smaller operations, easier to move when full
- Common uses: Water storage, liquid fertilizers, cleaning solutions
330 Gallon IBC Totes:
- Size: 40 inches long × 48 inches wide × 54 inches high
- Weight when empty: about 195 pounds
- Best for: Maximum storage in standard footprint
- Common uses: Bulk chemicals, food ingredients, industrial liquids
Both types have:
- Steel cage for protection
- Steel pallet base for forklift handling
- 2-inch valve options (ball valve, butterfly valve, or camlock)
- UN certification markings (if reconditioned properly)
Tote Conditions Explained
Dirty/Unrinsed - $35
- Previous contents still visible
- Requires thorough cleaning before use
- Good for: Non-critical applications where you'll clean anyway
- Example: Storing rainwater for garden irrigation
Triple-Rinsed - $50
- Washed three times with water
- Suitable for most non-food liquids
- Good for: Industrial chemicals, automotive fluids
- Example: Storing windshield washer fluid for a car wash
Reconditioned - $125
- Pressure-washed inside and out
- Valve replaced if needed
- Structural repairs completed
- UN certification restored
- Good for: Food-grade liquids, critical applications
- Example: Storing maple syrup for commercial production
Rebottled - $150
- New inner bottle with refurbished cage
- Food-grade certified
- Highest quality used option
- Good for: Sensitive liquids, pharmaceutical uses
- Example: Storing beverage concentrates
How to Buy the Right Tote
Step 1: Determine Your Needs Ask yourself:
- What liquid will you store?
- How clean does the tote need to be?
- Do you need food-grade certification?
- Can you transport it yourself or need delivery?
Step 2: Calculate True Costs
- Unit price
- Delivery fee (if applicable)
- Cleaning costs (if buying dirty totes)
- Any modifications needed
Step 3: Inspect Before Buying Check these items:
- Cage has no broken welds or bent bars
- Valve opens and closes smoothly
- No cracks in the plastic bottle
- Drain completely when tilted
- Fittings are tight and not stripped
Step 4: Plan Your Purchase
- Many sellers offer bulk discounts for 10+ units
- Spring and summer have higher demand and prices
- Consider buying in fall/winter for better deals
Smart Shopping Tips
For Water Storage:
- Triple-rinsed totes work perfectly
- Save $75+ compared to reconditioned
- Clean once more yourself for peace of mind
For Food Applications:
- Only buy reconditioned or rebottled
- Verify UN certification markings
- Ask for cleaning documentation
For Chemicals:
- Match tote history to your chemical if possible
- Avoid totes that held incompatible substances
- When in doubt, buy reconditioned
For Large Orders:
- Get quotes from multiple suppliers
- Ask about drop-trailer service
- Negotiate bulk pricing for 30+ units
Final Recommendation
For most Vienna, VA buyers, start with triple-rinsed 275-gallon totes at $50 each. They offer the best balance of price and cleanliness for typical applications like water storage, non-food chemicals, and general industrial use.
Only upgrade to reconditioned ($125) or rebottled ($150) if you need food-grade certification or store sensitive liquids.
Remember: A used IBC tote that serves your needs is always better than a new one that strains your budget.