Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about IBC tanks, our services, and how to choose the right containers for your needs. Can't find your answer here? Contact usand we'll help.
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General
What is an IBC tank?
An IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) is a reusable industrial container designed for the transport and storage of bulk liquids and granular materials. The most common type consists of an HDPE plastic bottle inside a galvanized steel cage, mounted on a pallet. Standard sizes are 275 and 330 US gallons.
What is an IBC tank also called?
IBC tanks go by many names: IBC totes, tote tanks, bulk containers, intermediate bulk containers, IBC bins, or simply 'totes.' They're all the same thing — a pallet-mounted container with a capacity between 275 and 330 gallons.
How long does an IBC tank last?
With proper care, an IBC tank can last 5-10 years in active use. UV exposure is the biggest enemy of the HDPE bottle — tanks stored outdoors without UV covers will degrade faster. The steel cage and pallet can last much longer with basic maintenance.
Buying & Pricing
How much does a used IBC tank cost?
Pricing varies by grade and condition. Economy/as-is tanks start at the lowest price point, while food-grade reconditioned tanks are at the premium end. Used tanks generally cost 40-70% less than new. Contact us for current pricing — it fluctuates with supply and demand.
Do you offer volume discounts?
Yes. Orders of 10+ tanks receive quantity pricing. Larger orders (full truckloads of 48+ tanks) receive the best per-unit pricing. Contact us with your quantity needs for a custom quote.
Can I see the tanks before buying?
Absolutely. You're welcome to visit our facility at 1384 Enterprise Ave, Myrtle Beach, during business hours (Mon-Fri 7 AM - 5 PM, Sat 8 AM - 12 PM) to inspect our inventory in person.
Food Safety & Cleaning
Are reconditioned IBC tanks food-safe?
Our Grade A reconditioned tanks are certified for food-contact reuse. They were originally used for food-safe liquids, then triple-rinsed with food-safe cleaning agents, sanitized, fitted with new gaskets, and pressure-tested. Each comes with a cleaning certificate.
What were the tanks previously used for?
We document and disclose previous contents for every tank we sell. Common previous contents include fruit juices, syrups, cooking oils, soaps, detergents, and industrial lubricants. We never sell tanks that previously contained hazardous materials.
Can I use a used IBC for drinking water?
A Grade A food-grade reconditioned tank can store water, but for potable (drinking) use, you'll also need appropriate filtration and UV treatment systems. The tank itself is food-safe, but additional treatment ensures water quality. We can advise on complete setups.
Logistics
Do you deliver?
Yes. We deliver throughout Horry County (often same-day or next-day), regionally across SC, NC, and GA (2-5 business days), and nationally through LTL/FTL carrier partners. Delivery pricing depends on quantity and distance.
How are IBC tanks shipped?
IBCs are shipped on their pallets, typically by flatbed truck, enclosed trailer, or LTL freight. Empty tanks can be stacked two-high for more efficient shipping. Residential deliveries use a liftgate-equipped truck.
Will you pick up tanks I want to sell?
Yes, we offer free pickup within the Horry County area for quantities of 4+ tanks. For smaller quantities or locations outside our immediate area, we can arrange pickup at a nominal fee. Contact us for a buyback quote.
Sustainability & Recycling
What happens to tanks that can't be reused?
We disassemble them and recycle each component separately. HDPE plastic is shredded into pellets for manufacturing. Steel cages go to scrap metal processors. Wood pallets are chipped for mulch or biomass. Our overall recycle rate is 98%.
How much plastic does recycling an IBC save?
Each 275-gallon IBC contains approximately 60 lbs of HDPE plastic. Reconditioning it for reuse avoids manufacturing a new container, saving an estimated 120 kg of CO2 emissions and 500 gallons of water that would be used in production.
Are you EPA compliant?
Yes. All our operations — cleaning, reconditioning, recycling, and disposal — comply with EPA regulations. We maintain proper documentation and chain of custody for every container we process.
Maintenance & Care
How do I prevent algae growth in my IBC tank?
Keep the tank out of direct sunlight — UV promotes algae. Use a UV-resistant cover or paint the bottle with exterior latex paint (white reflects heat, black absorbs it). Keep the lid sealed when not filling. For non-potable applications, a small amount of food-safe algaecide can be added. Opaque covers are the most effective long-term solution.
How often should I replace gaskets and seals?
Replace gaskets annually for tanks in active use, or immediately if you notice dripping from the valve or lid. Gaskets cost $5-15 each and take about 5 minutes to install. We stock replacement gaskets for all standard IBC valve and lid sizes. Buna-N gaskets work for most applications; use EPDM for food-grade or chemical use.
Can I paint my IBC tank?
Yes — use exterior latex or acrylic paint on the HDPE bottle to block UV light. White reflects heat (best for hot climates), while black absorbs heat (good for solar water heating). Don't use spray paint — it peels off HDPE quickly. Brush or roller application with exterior house paint bonds much better and lasts 3-5 years before needing a touch-up.
What's the best way to store an empty IBC long-term?
Drain completely, leave the bottom valve open and the fill cap off so air circulates and residual moisture evaporates. Store indoors or under cover to prevent UV degradation. Place on a level surface — an uneven surface can permanently deform the bottle over time. If storing outdoors, use a UV cover.
DIY & Projects
Can I cut an IBC tank safely at home?
Yes — use a reciprocating saw (sawzall) or jigsaw with a fine-tooth blade. Mark your cut line with painter's tape for a straight edge. Wear safety glasses — HDPE chips are sharp. Cut slowly and steadily; HDPE can grab the blade if you rush. An angle grinder with a cutting disc works for the steel cage. Deburr all cut edges with a file.
What tools do I need to modify an IBC?
Basic toolkit: reciprocating saw or jigsaw, drill with hole saw bits (1/2" to 2"), adjustable wrench, Teflon tape, PVC fittings and cement, tape measure, and safety glasses. For cage modifications, add an angle grinder with metal cutting and grinding discs. A step drill bit is useful for making clean holes in the HDPE bottle.
Is it safe to use a used IBC for a fish tank (aquaponics)?
Only use food-grade (Grade A) tanks that previously held food products like juice, syrup, or cooking oil. Clean thoroughly with non-toxic biodegradable soap and rinse until no odor remains. HDPE plastic itself is fish-safe, but residues from non-food chemicals can be lethal to fish. Never use tanks that held industrial chemicals, pesticides, or petroleum products.
How do I connect multiple IBCs together?
Use an IBC-to-IBC connector kit — a 2-inch threaded fitting with a union joint that connects between the bottom valves of two adjacent tanks. Both tanks must be at the same elevation for gravity equalization. For daisy-chaining 3+ tanks, connect them in series. We sell pre-made connector kits with all necessary fittings and gaskets.
Regulations & Compliance
Do I need a permit to store IBC tanks on my property?
Generally no for residential use in South Carolina — there are no state-level restrictions on storing IBC tanks for personal use. Commercial properties should check local zoning ordinances for outdoor storage limits and setback requirements. Some HOAs may have rules about visible storage containers. For hazardous materials, EPA and DHEC regulations apply regardless of zoning.
What are the rules for transporting IBCs on public roads?
Empty IBCs on a flatbed require standard tie-down securement per DOT regulations. Filled IBCs with non-hazardous contents need proper securement with rated straps — typically one strap per tank minimum. IBCs containing hazardous materials require DOT placarding, a shipping manifest, and the driver must have hazmat endorsement. We handle all transport compliance for deliveries.
Is rainwater harvesting legal in South Carolina?
Yes — South Carolina has no state-level restrictions on residential or commercial rainwater collection. You can freely collect and use rainwater for irrigation, livestock watering, and other non-potable applications without any permits. For potable (drinking water) use, you'll need appropriate filtration and UV treatment systems. No HOA can override state law on this issue.
What documentation comes with a reconditioned IBC?
Our reconditioned tanks come with a Certificate of Cleanliness documenting: previous contents, cleaning method used, dates of cleaning and testing, pressure test results, gasket/valve replacement records, and the technician who performed the work. Food-grade (Grade A) tanks additionally include FDA compliance information and food-grade material verification.