Buy Used IBC Totes in Federal Way

How to Save 60-80% on Liquid Storage: Your Guide to Buying Used IBC Totes in Federal Way

What you'll gain from this guide: Learn how to buy quality used containers for $15-25 instead of $200+ new ones, avoid common buying mistakes, and find reliable local suppliers.

What Are IBC Totes and Why Buy Used?

IBC totes are large plastic containers (usually 275 gallons) inside steel cages. Think of them as giant, stackable jugs for businesses that need to store liquids like oils, cleaners, or water.

Why buy used instead of new?

• Save $150-200 per container
• Help the environment by reusing materials
• Get the same function at a fraction of the cost

Most used totes work just as well as new ones if you know what to look for.

How Much You'll Pay in Federal Way

Here's what used IBC totes actually cost:

• Basic used totes: $15-25 each
• Cleaned totes: $25-50 each
• Food-grade reconditioned: $50-100 each
• Like-new reconditioned: $100-160 each

For comparison, new totes cost $200-300 each.

Example: If you need 10 containers, you'll spend $150-250 used versus $2,000-3,000 new. That's real money back in your pocket.

What to Look For When Buying

The Four Key Things to Check

The plastic bottle inside - No cracks, holes, or strange smells

The steel cage - No rust that goes through the metal

The bottom pallet - Should be solid, not cracked

The valve at the bottom - Opens and closes smoothly

Understanding Tote Grades

Think of it like buying a used car - there are different condition levels:

Dirty/As-Is ($15-25)

• Previous contents still inside
• Good for non-critical storage only
• You clean it yourself

Rinsed ($25-40)

• Washed once but may have residue
• Fine for industrial liquids, not food

Triple-Rinsed ($40-60)

• Thoroughly cleaned
• Safe for most industrial uses

Food-Grade Reconditioned ($60-160)

• Like new inside
• Safe for food and drinking water
• Often has new valves and gaskets

Where to Buy in Federal Way

RePackify - Best for Budget Buyers

RePackify offers food-grade used 275-gallon totes for $15 each in Federal Way. They deliver by the truckload (up to 400 units), which works well if you need many containers or can split an order with other businesses.

Local Industrial Recyclers

Several local companies buy, clean, and resell used totes. They often provide:

• Free pickup of empty containers
• Same-day delivery
• Mix-and-match different grades
• Disposal services when you're done

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying the wrong grade - Don't use industrial-grade totes for food

Ignoring certifications - Look for UN/DOT stamps if you'll transport hazardous materials

Skipping inspection - Always check before you buy

Forgetting delivery costs - Factor in shipping for small orders

When to Choose Each Grade

Choose dirty/as-is if:

• You're storing non-critical industrial liquids
• You have cleaning equipment
• Price is your main concern

Choose rinsed if:

• You need clean containers quickly
• You're storing lubricants or cleaners
• You want decent quality without premium cost

Choose food-grade reconditioned if:

• You're storing anything people will consume
• You need guaranteed cleanliness
• Compliance matters for your business

Simple Buying Process

Decide what grade you need based on what you'll store

Calculate how many containers you actually need

Get quotes from 2-3 suppliers including delivery

Inspect containers when they arrive

Plan for disposal when you're done with them

The Environmental Bonus

Every used tote you buy keeps plastic and metal out of landfills. One reused container saves the energy needed to make several new drums. It's an easy way to reduce waste while saving money.

Bottom Line

Used IBC totes offer real savings - often 60-80% less than new containers. The key is matching the right grade to your needs and buying from reliable sources.

Start with RePackify for budget options, or contact local recyclers for more service. Either way, you'll get quality containers at a fraction of new prices.

Your next step: Decide what grade you need, then get quotes. Most suppliers can deliver within a few days in the Federal Way area.