Buying a used IBC tote can be a smart way to save money, but only if you know what to look for before committing to a purchase. Many totes on the secondhand market come from industrial environments, and not all of them are safe for storing water or supporting rainwater systems. By checking the previous contents, inspecting the tank and cage, and understanding common red flags, you can ensure you’re bringing home a tote that’s safe, reliable, and worth the investment.
5 Tips to buying a used IBC Tote
✔ 1. Confirm the Previous Contents
This is the MOST important step.
If the seller cannot confirm what was stored inside—walk away.
Preferred previous contents (safe for water):
- Food ingredients
- Vinegar
- Glycerin
- Alcohol
- Water
- Pharmaceutically safe liquids
Avoid at all costs:
- Pesticides
- Herbicides
- Acids
- Oils and fuels
- Industrial detergents
- Anything toxic or unknown
✔ 2. Check the Plastic Tank
Look for:
- No strong chemical smells
- No staining
- No dents or bulging
- No cracks at seams or corners
✔ 3. Inspect the Cage
A solid steel cage ensures the tote stays stable.
Check for:
- No rust
- No broken welds
- Cage firmly attached to pallet
✔ 4. Inspect the Valve & Caps
Make sure:
- Valve opens and closes smoothly
- No leaks around the seal
- Threads are not stripped
- Top cap tightens properly
✔ 5. Choose the Right Pallet Type
IBC totes come on three pallet styles:
| Pallet Type | Best For |
|---|---|
| Plastic pallet | Outdoor storage, rainwater use |
| Composite pallet | Good all-around option |
| Wood pallet | Indoor or dry environments |
For rainwater systems, plastic or composite pallets are best.
Buying a used IBC Tote: How Much Should it Cost?
Here’s the typical price range for 1000L used IBC totes:
| Condition | Price RangeIBC |
|---|---|
| Rebottled (new inner bottle) | $120–$180 |
| Reconditioned (cleaned) | $60–$120 |
| Used – food-grade | $50–$100 |
| Used – unknown contents | $20–$80 (not recommended) |
If the price is extremely low, verify why.
Red Flags That Mean “Do Not Buy”
Avoid totes with:
- Unknown previous contents
- Strong chemical smell
- Staining inside the bottle
- Damaged cage or pallet
- Leaking valve
- Seller unwilling to answer questions
Your health and safety are worth more than a cheap tote.
Best Choice for Rainwater Harvesting
For safe water collection, the recommended order is:
- Rebottled IBC tote (safest)
- Food-grade used tote
- Reconditioned tote with documented contents
Avoid:
- Any tote that previously stored chemicals, even if “cleaned”
Final Tips Before Buying a used IBC Tote
- Always rinse and sanitize the tote after purchase
- Replace the valve or cap if it shows wear
- Elevate your tote on blocks or a pallet for better water pressure
- Use a first-flush diverter if connecting to gutters
Buying a used IBC tote doesn’t have to be risky—as long as you take the time to verify its history, inspect its condition, and choose a model suited for your intended use. When you prioritize safety, ask the right questions, and avoid totes with unknown or questionable contents, you’ll end up with a dependable container that serves you well for years. With a careful approach, buying a used IBC tote becomes an easy, cost-effective way to support rainwater harvesting, storage projects, or off-grid systems with confidence.ng