Frequently Asked Questions

An IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) is a reusable industrial container for storing and transporting liquids and granulated materials. It consists of an HDPE plastic bottle inside a galvanized steel cage, mounted on a standard pallet. Standard sizes are 275 gallons (1,040L) and 330 gallons (1,249L).

A "used" tank has been emptied but not cleaned or inspected — it may have residue, odors, or cosmetic damage. A "reconditioned" tank has gone through our full cleaning, inspection, pressure testing, and grading process. We only sell reconditioned tanks to ensure quality and safety.

Prices vary by grade, size, and quantity. Generally, reconditioned 275-gallon IBC totes range from $60 to $120 each, representing 40–60% savings compared to new tanks ($200–$350). Volume discounts are available for orders of 10 or more. Contact us for a specific quote.

Yes, we occasionally carry new IBC tanks, though our primary focus is on reconditioned containers. If you specifically need new tanks, let us know in your quote request and we'll check availability.

A food-grade IBC tank has two requirements: (1) the HDPE material is manufactured from FDA-compliant virgin resin (21 CFR 177.1520), and (2) the tank has only held food-safe products. We verify and document the history of all food-grade tanks we sell.

Yes, if it's a food-grade tank that has been properly cleaned and certified. We sell food-grade IBCs specifically suitable for potable water storage. Always ensure proper treatment (chlorination or UV) if storing water long-term.

With proper maintenance — UV protection, clean storage, regular inspection — an IBC tank can last 5 to 10+ years. The steel cage lasts decades. The HDPE bottle eventually degrades from UV exposure, chemical stress, or mechanical wear. See our maintenance guide for tips on extending tank life.

Absolutely. We buy used IBC totes in any condition — damaged cages, cloudy bottles, missing valves, residual contents. Contact us with the quantity and condition, and we'll provide a purchase offer.

Any condition. Tanks in good shape are reconditioned for resale. Tanks beyond reconditioning are fully recycled — we separate the HDPE, steel, and pallet components for recycling. Nothing goes to waste.

Yes. We provide local delivery in the greater Los Angeles area, regional delivery throughout Southern California, and nationwide freight shipping. Liftgate service is available for locations without a loading dock. We also offer will-call pickup from our Vernon warehouse.

A standard 53-foot semi trailer holds 52–56 empty 275-gallon IBCs. A 48-foot flatbed holds 24–28. A 16-foot box truck holds 6–8. For smaller orders, we can arrange LTL (less-than-truckload) freight.

Our 6-step reconditioning process includes initial inspection, residual removal, triple hot-water rinse (180°F) with food-safe detergent, pressure testing, hardware inspection/replacement, and final grading. Food-grade tanks follow additional FDA-compliant protocols.

Yes. IBC tanks are designed for 2-high stacking when full (combined weight ~5,000 lbs) and 3-4 high when empty. Always ensure the upper tank's cage feet sit squarely in the lower tank's cage corners, and only stack tanks with the same base dimensions.

Yes, 100%. The HDPE bottle is shredded and pelletized for reuse in manufacturing. The galvanized steel cage is processed as scrap metal. Even the wooden pallet is recycled as mulch or biomass. We guarantee zero waste to landfill.

Both have the same 48" × 40" footprint (standard pallet size). The 330-gallon tank is 7 inches taller (53" vs 46"), giving it 20% more capacity. Choose 330-gallon when you need maximum volume; choose 275-gallon when ceiling height or stacking clearance is a concern.

Yes. For every batch of tanks we recycle, we provide documentation showing the weight and type of materials recycled. This is useful for your sustainability reporting, ESG disclosures, and environmental compliance records.

Yes. Our fabrication team can cut, drill, weld, and fit IBC tanks for custom applications: rainwater harvesting systems, aquaponics, mobile wash stations, and more. Tell us your project and we'll design a solution.

Fill out our quote request form on any page or email us at info@ecoibcla.com. Include the quantity, size, grade, and any special requirements. We'll respond with pricing and availability within one business day.