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September 5, 2019
What are IBC totes? Everything You Need to Know.

IBC totes stacked

What are IBC totes?

Everything You Need to Know

275 gallon totes and 330 gallon IBC totes are intermediate bulk containers that save space and money at the same time.

IBC components description

How can they save you both space and money?

Compare to other containers, they have larger gallon capacities, so they can hold more products at once. Via the 6" fill cap, they are easy to fill and load with the widest range of chemicals, as well as food grade products. In terms of durability, their heat, UV, weather, and age resistance also ensures that the products inside can be stored for a lengthy time, or even outside in the sunlight without losing their integrity.

Can IBC totes be stacked?

Yes, they can. You're probably also wondering, "can IBC totes be stacked full?" and the answer to that question is yes as well, as long as you don't exceed the stacking test load shown in the UN marking. IBC tote tanks being stackable is one of the major advantages gained when utilizing these containers. By stacking your units, you can make the most of your warehouse, efficiently using both horizontal and vertical storage space.

We definitely recommend stacking your IBCs during storage, as long as you have the capability to do it safely. IBCs are made to be stacked, and the extra storage space that you can achieve by doing so is a unique advantage held by these containers.

What are IBC totes made of?

We're happy to explain. While there are multiple kinds of these containers that are made of various materials, we'll tell you about the most common form.

Typically, IBC containers have a:

  1. Universally compatible HDPE (high density polyethylene) body that is mold, mildew, rot, chemical, weather, and impact resistant
  2. Metal cage: The IBC's durable frame that provides minor deflection in racks and the best collision resistance at low temperatures
  3. Quick disconnect outlets: For swiftly and easily connecting hoses to dispense products
  4. A composite pallet made of steel and plastic. Delivers the cleanliness required by industry standards and makes these containers simple and easy to move around

That’s why IBCs meet quality standards.

Are IBC totes food grade?

Yes, many IBC totes are FDA compliant and BPA free for a wide range of food products. A food grade IBC will be made of virgin HDPE or corrugate. On top of being perfect for food storage and shipping, they are also UN rated for storing and transporting chemicals, making these some of the most versatile and widely useful containers that we offer at BASCO.

What kinds of IBC totes are there?

There are many different types of IBC totes' materials like steel, corrugate, and HDPE. BASCO has each of these varieties.Different types of IBCs

 

  • Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel – Corrosion resistant and equipped to be reusable, these stainless steel IBC totes, like SKU CMSS550 (550 gallon stainless steel totes) are ideal for things like oils, solvents, lubricants, chemicals, coatings, dyes, paints, and sanitation chemicals. That's why they are the most sought-after tank for the chemical, pharmaceutical, and petrochemical industries. Carbon steel and stainless steel IBC tanks are low maintenance with limitless service life due to all-welded, thick 10 gauge steel tanks.
  • Corrugate– Cardboard IBC packaging systems like our LiquiSet corrugate IBCs are lightweight and environmentally friendly. These ship unassembled, but they can be easily assembled by one person in around one minute. Since they are FDA compliant and kosher, once assembled, corrugate IBCs are perfect for storing and dispensing liquid foods as well as non-hazardous chemicals.
  • HDPE – HDPE plastic IBC containers are equipped with a steel cage and a composite pallet made of steel and plastic. These are the most traditional, standard IBC containers. The steel cage adds extra stability to the plastic bottle and allows these to be stacked for economical storage.

UN ratings and FDA compliance make the plastic IBC tote the most popular IBC that we offer, including their rebottled IBC counterparts that offer 20% more savings with all of the same benefits and capabilities. They all include a 2 inch removable butterfly valve with quick disconnect outlet and 6 inch solid cap for fast dispensing of products straight from the plastic IBC tank.

What are the average IBC tote dimensions?

IBC tote dimensions depend on the particular size of the IBC. IBCs are sold in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the two most popular are 275 gallons and 330 gallons as we have here at BASCO. The most common outer dimensions are 48” x 40” x 46", making them ideal for shipping on a pallet.

IBC containers' base dimensions are near an internationally-accepted, most used, standard pallet dimension of 48″ L x 40″ W. To make them even easier to move and transport once they're off the truck, IBC totes are equipped with what is functionally a built-in pallet. They are constructed to be easily forkliftable from the bottom, with perfectly sized holes for a forklift or handtruck to fit in from any size.

An investment in an IBC tote or a bulk of these IBC containers is a wise investment. When you're ready, you already know where to buy IBCs.