Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about IBC tanks

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General Questions

What is an IBC tank?

An IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) is a reusable industrial container designed for storing and transporting liquids and bulk materials. They typically hold 275-330 gallons (1000-1250 liters) and feature an HDPE plastic bladder inside a galvanized steel cage, mounted on a pallet base.

What are IBC tanks used for?

IBC tanks are used across many industries for storing and transporting liquids including water, chemicals, food products, agricultural products, and more. They're popular due to their large capacity, ease of handling with forklifts, and space-efficient stackable design.

How long do IBC tanks last?

With proper care, IBC tanks can last 5-10 years or more. The lifespan depends on what's stored, environmental conditions, and handling. Regular inspection and maintenance can significantly extend tank life.

Why are they called "totes"?

IBC tanks are often called "totes" in North America as an informal term. The name comes from the idea of "toting" or carrying materials. In industry, you'll hear both terms used interchangeably, along with "IBC containers" and "bulk containers."

Are IBC tanks environmentally friendly?

Yes! IBC tanks are highly sustainable. They're designed for multiple reuses, can be professionally cleaned and reconditioned, and at end of life, both the HDPE plastic and steel cage are 100% recyclable. Using reconditioned tanks reduces manufacturing demand.

What are the main components of an IBC tank?

An IBC tank consists of three main components: the HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) inner bladder that holds contents, the galvanized steel outer cage that provides protection and stacking capability, and the pallet base (steel, plastic, or wood) that enables forklift handling.

Buying Questions

What's the difference between used and reconditioned tanks?

Used tanks have been previously owned and are sold as-is after basic cleaning. Reconditioned tanks undergo thorough cleaning, inspection, and any necessary repairs to restore them to like-new functionality. Reconditioned tanks typically cost more but offer better condition guarantees.

Do you offer bulk pricing?

Yes! We offer volume discounts for orders of 10+ tanks. The more you buy, the more you save. Contact us for a custom quote based on your needs.

Can I see tanks before buying?

Absolutely! We welcome customers to visit our facility during business hours to inspect tanks before purchase. We recommend calling ahead to ensure we have what you're looking for in stock.

Do you deliver?

Yes, we offer delivery throughout the Greater Vancouver Area. Delivery is free for orders of 10+ tanks. For smaller orders, delivery fees are based on distance and quantity.

How do I know what grade tank I need?

The grade depends on your intended use. Food-grade tanks are required for anything consumable (food ingredients, beverages, potable water). Chemical-grade tanks are designed for industrial chemicals. Standard tanks work well for non-critical applications like rainwater collection or general storage.

Do new tanks come with a warranty?

Yes, new IBC tanks come with manufacturer warranties typically covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty periods vary by manufacturer but are usually 1-2 years. We can provide specific warranty information for any tank you're considering.

What's included with my tank purchase?

All our tanks come complete with the bladder, cage, pallet, fill cap with gasket, and discharge valve. Unless otherwise noted, dust caps for valves are included. If you need specific fittings or adapters, let us know.

Can you source specific brands or types?

We work with multiple suppliers and manufacturers. If you need a specific brand (Schutz, Mauser, Greif, etc.) or configuration, let us know and we'll do our best to source it for you.

Selling Questions

What condition do tanks need to be in to sell?

We buy tanks in any condition - from like-new to damaged and end-of-life. Even tanks that can't be reused have recycling value. Contact us with details for a quote.

How much will I get for my tanks?

Pricing depends on condition, quantity, and current market rates. Like-new tanks fetch the best prices, while damaged tanks are priced for recycling value. Contact us for a specific quote.

Do you pick up tanks?

Yes! We offer free pickup for bulk quantities (usually 5+ tanks). For smaller quantities, pickup fees may apply based on location.

What information do you need for a quote?

To provide an accurate quote, we need: quantity of tanks, approximate age, condition (any damage, UV exposure, etc.), what was previously stored in them, valve type and condition, and your location for pickup logistics.

Do you buy tanks that contained hazardous materials?

Yes, but we need to know the specific contents. Some materials require special handling or make tanks unsuitable for resale. Provide us with the UN number or SDS information and we'll let you know how we can help.

How quickly can you pick up tanks?

For standard pickups in the Greater Vancouver Area, we can typically schedule within 3-5 business days. Urgent pickups may be available for an additional fee. Large quantities may require multiple trips.

Technical Questions

What sizes do IBC tanks come in?

The two most common sizes are 275 gallon (1040L) and 330 gallon (1250L). Both have the same footprint but differ in height. The 330-gallon is about 7 inches taller.

Can IBC tanks be stacked?

Yes, most IBC tanks can be stacked 2-3 high when empty and 2 high when full, depending on pallet type. Steel pallets offer the best stacking stability. Always follow manufacturer guidelines.

What's the difference between food grade and non-food grade?

Food-grade tanks meet FDA requirements for contact with consumable products. They use specific materials and undergo more rigorous cleaning. For food, beverage, or potable water storage, always use food-grade tanks.

What chemicals are compatible with IBC tanks?

HDPE tanks are compatible with many chemicals including water, mild acids and bases, detergents, and agricultural chemicals. Always verify specific chemical compatibility before use, especially for concentrated or hazardous materials.

What types of valves are available?

The two most common valve types are butterfly valves and ball valves. Butterfly valves are the standard and work well for most applications. Ball valves provide more precise flow control and are preferred for thicker liquids or applications requiring exact metering.

What's the difference between pallet types?

Steel pallets offer maximum durability and stacking capacity. Plastic pallets are lighter and won't rust but have lower weight limits. Wood pallets are economical but not recommended for wet environments. Composite pallets combine benefits of multiple materials.

What does UN certification mean?

UN certification indicates the tank meets United Nations standards for transporting hazardous materials. The certification includes codes like "UN31HA1" where each segment indicates specific performance characteristics. These tanks can legally transport classified dangerous goods.

Can I use an IBC tank for pressure applications?

Standard IBC tanks are not designed for pressure applications. They're rated for atmospheric pressure only. For pressurized storage, you need specially designed pressure-rated containers. Never pressurize a standard IBC tank.

What temperature range can IBC tanks handle?

Standard HDPE tanks operate safely from about -40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C). Contents should not exceed 140°F during filling. For higher temperatures, special high-temperature bladders are available. Always drain tanks before freezing if contents could expand.

How much does a full IBC tank weigh?

A full 275-gallon tank weighs approximately 2,400 lbs (1,090 kg), while a 330-gallon tank weighs about 2,900 lbs (1,315 kg) when filled with water. This weight requires appropriate handling equipment - never attempt to move full tanks without a forklift.

Care & Maintenance

How should I store IBC tanks?

Store tanks on level ground, protected from direct sunlight when possible (UV can degrade plastic over time). Keep valves closed and caps secured to prevent contamination. Drain tanks before freezing temperatures.

How do I clean an IBC tank?

Basic cleaning involves rinsing with water and appropriate cleaning agents based on previous contents. For food-grade use, professional cleaning is recommended. We offer cleaning services if needed.

When should I replace my tank?

Replace tanks showing significant UV damage (brittleness), major cracks, structural cage damage, or when they can no longer be properly sealed. When in doubt, have us inspect the tank.

How can I prevent UV damage?

Store tanks indoors or under cover when possible. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, use UV-resistant covers or tarps. Some manufacturers offer UV-stabilized bladders that resist degradation. Rotate stock so older tanks are used first.

What maintenance does a valve require?

Inspect valves regularly for leaks, stiffness, or damage. Lubricate butterfly valve handles annually with food-grade lubricant. Check and replace gaskets as needed. Exercise valves periodically even when not in use to prevent seizing.

Can I repair a leaking bladder?

Small cracks in HDPE can sometimes be repaired using professional plastic welding techniques. However, repairs may not be suitable for food-grade or chemical applications. We offer repair assessment services to determine if repair is viable.

How often should I inspect my tanks?

Perform visual inspections weekly for tanks in active use. Check for leaks, bladder condition, valve operation, and cage integrity. Tanks in storage should be inspected monthly. Document inspections for quality assurance purposes.

Safety & Compliance

Are there regulations for IBC tank use?

Yes, various regulations apply depending on usage. Food-grade applications must meet FDA requirements. Transport of hazardous materials requires UN-certified tanks. Workplace safety regulations (OSHA) apply to handling and storage. We can help you understand requirements for your application.

What safety precautions should I take?

Always use appropriate equipment for handling (rated forklifts). Never climb or stand on tanks. Secure tanks during transport. Know the contents and have appropriate PPE. Keep SDS sheets available. Ensure adequate ventilation when working with volatile contents.

Do I need to label my IBC tanks?

Yes, proper labeling is important and often required. Include contents identification, hazard warnings if applicable, date of filling, and contact information. For hazardous materials, specific labeling requirements apply under transport regulations.

What's the maximum stacking height?

Maximum stacking depends on pallet type and contents. Generally: 2 high when full, 3-4 high when empty with steel pallets. Never exceed manufacturer ratings. Consider floor load capacity in your facility. Secure stacked tanks to prevent shifting.

Can IBC tanks be used outdoors long-term?

IBC tanks can be used outdoors but with precautions. UV exposure degrades plastic - use covers or select UV-stabilized tanks. Anchor tanks in windy areas. Consider temperature extremes. Elevate from ground contact in wet areas. Indoor storage always extends tank life.

Environmental & Recycling

What happens to tanks at end of life?

End-of-life tanks are broken down for recycling. The HDPE bladder is shredded and processed into recycled plastic pellets. Steel cages are sent to metal recyclers. Even damaged tanks have recycling value - never send them to landfill.

Is it better to buy new or used tanks?

Used/reconditioned tanks are more environmentally friendly as they extend product life. They're also more economical. New tanks make sense for critical applications requiring warranties or specific certifications. We can help you decide based on your needs.

Do you provide recycling certificates?

Yes, we can provide documentation confirming proper recycling of your tanks. This is important for businesses with sustainability reporting requirements or environmental management systems.

What sustainability certifications do you have?

We follow industry best practices for sustainable IBC management. Our processes prioritize reuse over recycling. We maintain proper documentation for material tracking. Contact us for specific certification information relevant to your requirements.

Quick Reference Guide

Key information about IBC tanks at a glance.

Topic	275 Gallon	330 Gallon
Capacity (liters)	1,040L	1,250L
Height	46"	53"
Footprint	40" x 48"	40" x 48"
Empty Weight	~120 lbs	~145 lbs
Full Weight (water)	~2,400 lbs	~2,900 lbs
Stack Empty	3 high	3 high
Stack Full	2 high	2 high

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from others' experiences - here are mistakes we see frequently.

Using non-food-grade tanks for consumables

Risk: Health risks and regulatory violations

Prevention: Always verify tank grade matches intended use

Storing tanks in direct sunlight

Risk: Premature UV degradation and cracking

Prevention: Cover tanks or store indoors when possible

Overstacking tanks

Risk: Structural failure and safety hazards

Prevention: Follow manufacturer stacking guidelines

Ignoring valve maintenance

Risk: Leaks and contamination

Prevention: Regular inspection and gasket replacement

Not draining before freezing

Risk: Cracked bladders from ice expansion

Prevention: Drain tanks or move indoors in winter

Using incompatible chemicals

Risk: Bladder degradation and leaks

Prevention: Always check chemical compatibility first

Still Have Questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our team is happy to help with any questions about IBC tanks.