Intermediate Bulk Containers — IBCs — are the big 1,000-litre cube tanks in a metal cage you’ll have seen on farms, building sites and in warehouses. Buying them new is expensive, and there’s a steady supply of perfectly good used ones looking for a second life. Here’s why reconditioned IBCs are worth considering, and what to look for.
What people use IBCs for
Rainwater harvesting, water storage for allotments and farms, livestock feed, industrial liquids, even as the base for DIY projects. They’re stackable, transportable and hold a huge volume in a small footprint.
Reconditioned vs new
A reconditioned IBC costs a fraction of a new one and is the greener choice — reusing a robust container that would otherwise be scrapped. For non-critical uses like water and general storage, used is almost always the sensible option.
What to check before you buy
- Previous contents: only buy food-grade tanks if you’re storing anything for animals or growing. Ask what it held.
- Bottle and cage condition: look for cracks, bulging or heavy UV damage on the plastic, and rust or bent bars on the cage.
- Valve and tap: check the outlet valve works and seals — replacements are cheap but worth knowing.
- Rebottled vs reconditioned: “rebottled” means a new tank in a used cage, ideal if cleanliness matters.
Buy responsibly
Choose a supplier who cleans and inspects their stock. A good used IBC will serve you for years — saving money and keeping a bulky container out of the waste stream.
Looking for used IBCs? See our guide to buying reconditioned containers.