Buy Used IBC Totes in Waukesha

Save Money on Industrial Containers: Your Guide to Used IBC Totes in Waukesha

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to cut storage costs by 60-80% with used IBC totes, find reliable suppliers in Wisconsin, and avoid common buying mistakes that waste money.

Why Used IBC Totes Make Financial Sense

New 275-gallon IBC totes cost $230-$300 each. Used ones start at just $60. That's real money saved, especially if you need multiple containers.

For example: If you need 10 containers for rainwater collection, you'll spend $2,300-$3,000 for new ones. Used containers cost $600-$1,100 for the same quantity.

What You Need to Know About IBC Totes

An IBC tote is a large plastic container in a metal cage. Think of it as a giant milk jug with a frame around it.

Standard features:

• 275-gallon or 330-gallon capacity
• Plastic bottle made from thick polyethylene
• Steel cage for protection
• Pallet base for easy moving with forklifts
• 2-inch valve at bottom for draining
• 6-inch opening at top for filling

Common uses:

• Water storage for gardens or farms
• Chemical storage for manufacturing
• Liquid transport in trucks
• Emergency water supply

Where to Find Used IBC Totes in Wisconsin

RePackify (Madison, WI)

• Online ordering platform
• Ships throughout Wisconsin and neighboring states
• Offers used, recycled, and food-grade options
• Custom orders available
• Ships Monday through Friday
• Dock receiving until 6 PM

Regional suppliers serving Waukesha:

• Milwaukee-area recyclers offer free pickup and delivery statewide
• Green Bay suppliers provide rebates on good condition units
• Some offer drop-trailer services for large orders

Understanding Condition Grades

Used Dirty ($60-$70 per unit)

• Previously held industrial liquids
• No internal cleaning done
• Good for non-food applications like rainwater collection
• Lowest price option

Rinsed Food Grade ($100-$110 per unit)

• Triple-rinsed and cleaned
• Safe for food-related uses
• Middle price range
• Good balance of cost and cleanliness

Reconditioned ($115-$125 per unit)

• Thoroughly cleaned and inspected
• Pressure-tested for leaks
• Not food-grade but very reliable
• Best for industrial uses

New ($230-$300+ per unit)

• Virgin plastic, never used
• FDA-compliant for food use
• Highest price but guaranteed quality
• Consider only if you need perfect condition

How to Get Volume Discounts

Truckload orders (60+ totes):

• Save up to 20% off single-unit prices
• Freight costs spread across many units
• Typical lead time: 3-7 days
• Requires storage space and forklift access

Example savings:

• Single tote: $100 each
• Truckload: $80 each
• Savings on 60 totes: $1,200

Step-by-Step Buying Process

1. Determine your needs:

• How many totes do you need?
• What will you store in them?
• Do you need food-grade quality?

2. Request quotes:

• Contact 2-3 suppliers for price comparison
• Specify exact condition and grade needed
• Ask about delivery options

3. Arrange delivery:

• Free statewide pickup available from some suppliers
• Scheduled freight shipping for bulk orders
• Plan for forklift or crane access

4. Inspect before use:

• Check for cracks in plastic
• Test valve operation
• Verify cage integrity
• Look for previous chemical residue

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying wrong grade: Don't use non-food grade totes for drinking water or food storage. Chemical residues can be dangerous.

Ignoring inspection: A cracked tote will leak and create a mess. Always inspect before first use.

Underestimating quantity needs: Volume discounts are significant. Calculate your long-term needs before ordering.

Forgetting about disposal: Plan how you'll dispose of totes when they're worn out. Some suppliers offer recycling programs.

Final Tips for Success

Ask these questions before buying:

• What was previously stored in these totes?
• Do you have cleaning certificates?
• Are pressure test results available?
• What's your return policy for defective units?

Best practices:

• Buy from suppliers who offer guarantees
• Keep cleaning certificates for food-grade units
• Store totes away from direct sunlight
• Replace valves and caps when they wear out

Used IBC totes offer excellent value for businesses and individuals in Waukesha. With proper selection and inspection, you'll get reliable containers at a fraction of new prices. Start with a small order to test your supplier, then scale up for maximum savings.