Poly Caged Intermediate Bulk Containers
Composite IBC totes with virgin HDPE inner tanks and galvanized steel protective cages. UN/DOT certified for hazardous and non-hazardous liquid transport. Available in 275 and 330 gallon capacities — new or rebottled.
The Industry Standard in Liquid Bulk Handling
Poly caged IBC totes (composite intermediate bulk containers) are the most widely used IBC model in the world. They feature a blow-molded high-density polyethylene (HDPE) inner tank supported by a galvanized steel protective cage — combining the chemical resistance of plastic with the structural protection of steel.
Each tote occupies a single pallet footprint and replaces 5–6 standard 55-gallon drums, dramatically improving storage density, handling efficiency, and logistics costs.
275 Gallon New IBC Tote
Newly manufactured composite IBC with virgin HDPE tank and new galvanized steel cage. UN/DOT 31HA1/Y certified, food grade, BPA free, NSF 61 potable water approved.
275 Gallon Rebottled IBC Tote
Brand new HDPE tank inside a refurbished, cleaned, inspected, and recertified galvanized steel cage. Same food grade certifications as new at a lower cost.
330 Gallon New IBC Tote
Newly manufactured 330-gallon composite IBC with virgin HDPE tank and new galvanized steel cage. Higher capacity — replaces six 55-gallon drums per container.
330 Gallon Rebottled IBC Tote
Brand new 330-gallon HDPE tank inside a reconditioned galvanized steel cage. Maximum value for high-volume liquid storage and transport.
Key Features & Benefits
Poly caged IBC totes are engineered for maximum versatility, durability, and cost-efficiency in liquid handling operations across dozens of industries.
UN/DOT Certified
UN 31HA1/Y rated for Packing Groups II & III — approved for hazardous and non-hazardous liquid transport per CFR Title 49.
Food Grade / NSF 61
FDA-compliant virgin HDPE resin with ANSI/NSF 61 certification for potable water and consumable product storage.
1.9 Specific Gravity
Rated for liquids up to 1.9 SG (15.8 lbs/gal) — handles water, chemicals, syrups, oils, and most industrial solutions.
4-Way Fork Access
Multi-directional fork pockets and pallet jack channels for easy maneuverability in tight warehouse and loading dock spaces.
UV Stabilized
Built-in UV stabilizers in the HDPE resin allow for extended outdoor storage without degradation from sunlight exposure.
Stackable Design
Cubical form factor and rated stacking load allows safe stacking in warehouses and during transport to maximize vertical space.
Complete Drainage
2-inch NPT quick-connect ball valve provides near-complete drainage — minimizes residual product waste and simplifies cleaning.
BPA Free
All HDPE materials are BPA-free, making these totes safe for food contact, beverage ingredients, and drinking water applications.
Reusable & Recyclable
Durable construction allows multiple use cycles. At end of life, HDPE tanks and steel cages are fully recyclable.
New vs. Rebottled — What’s the Difference?
The critical difference between new and rebottled IBC totes is the cage. Both options feature a brand-new, virgin HDPE inner tank — the part that contacts your product. A rebottled tote reuses a cleaned and recertified steel cage, offering significant cost savings without compromising product contact integrity.
- Brand-new HDPE inner tank — virgin resin
- Brand-new galvanized steel cage
- New 6″ threaded vented fill cap
- New 2″ NPT ball valve with male coupler
- New EPDM gaskets and seals throughout
- Full manufacturer warranty coverage
- Lowest tare weight (lightest empty weight)
- Best appearance — no cosmetic wear
- Full service life expectancy
- Ideal for: food/beverage, pharmaceuticals, brand-sensitive applications
- Brand-new HDPE inner tank — virgin resin
- Reconditioned galvanized steel cage
- New 6″ threaded vented fill cap
- New 2″ NPT ball valve with male coupler
- New EPDM gaskets and seals throughout
- Cage cleaned, inspected, and recertified
- Slightly higher tare weight (heavier cage)
- Cage may show minor cosmetic wear
- Same new-tank service life for the liner
- Ideal for: chemicals, water, oil & gas, cost-sensitive operations
Key Point: The inner tank (bottle) is identical in both new and rebottled totes — same virgin HDPE, same blow-mold fabrication, same food grade and NSF 61 certifications. The only difference is the steel cage. If your product only contacts the tank interior, a rebottled tote provides the same product-contact quality at a lower price.
Specifications Comparison
Complete dimensional, weight, and performance specifications for all poly caged IBC tote models.
| Specification | 275 Gal New (T275) | 275 Gal Re (R275) | 330 Gal New (T330) | 330 Gal Re (R330) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | ||||
| Length | 48″ (122 cm) | 48″ (122 cm) | 48″ (122 cm) | 48″ (122 cm) |
| Width | 40″ (102 cm) | 40″ (102 cm) | 40″ (102 cm) | 40″ (102 cm) |
| Height | 46″ (117 cm) | 46″ (117 cm) | 53″ (135 cm) | 53″ (135 cm) |
| Capacity | ||||
| Volume | 275 gal (1,041 L) | 275 gal (1,041 L) | 330 gal (1,250 L) | 330 gal (1,250 L) |
| 55-Gal Drum Equiv. | 5 drums | 5 drums | 6 drums | 6 drums |
| SG Rating | 1.9 SG | 1.9 SG | 1.9 SG | 1.9 SG |
| Weight | ||||
| Tare (Empty) | 135 lbs (61 kg) | 140 lbs (64 kg) | 150 lbs (68 kg) | 155 lbs (70 kg) |
| Full — Water | 2,428 lbs | 2,433 lbs | 2,902 lbs | 2,907 lbs |
| Max Gross Weight | 2,645 lbs (1,200 kg) | 2,645 lbs (1,200 kg) | 2,870 lbs (1,302 kg) | 2,870 lbs (1,302 kg) |
| Fittings | ||||
| Top Fill Cap | 6″ threaded vented screw cap | |||
| Bottom Valve | 2″ NPT male quick-connect ball valve | |||
| Certifications | ||||
| UN/DOT Code | UN 31HA1/Y — Packing Groups II & III | |||
| FDA Food Grade | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| NSF 61 (Potable Water) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| BPA Free | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| UV Stabilized | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Temp Range | -18°F to 130°F (-28°C to 54°C) | |||
| Handling | ||||
| Fork Access | 4-way directional (forklift & pallet jack) | |||
| Stackable | Yes — per rated stack test load | |||
| Manufactured In | United States | |||
| Pricing | ||||
| Price | $349.99 | $239.99 | $379.99 | $299.99 |
Construction & Materials
| Component | Material | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Inner Tank (Bottle) | Virgin HDPE | High-density polyethylene, blow-mold fabricated from FDA-compliant virgin resin. BPA free, UV stabilized, NSF 61 certified for potable water. |
| Outer Cage (New) | Galvanized Steel | New welded galvanized steel wire cage. Provides structural support, impact resistance, and protection for the inner tank during handling, stacking, and transport. |
| Outer Cage (Rebottled) | Reconditioned Galv. Steel | Previously used cage that has been cleaned, inspected for structural integrity, repaired if needed, and recertified for UN/DOT permitted use. |
| Top Fill Cap | HDPE + EPDM | 6″ NPS threaded screw cap with integrated self-venting and EPDM rubber gasket seal. Security tether prevents loss. |
| Ball Valve | HDPE / PP + EPDM | 2″ NPT male quick-connect ball valve. Polypropylene or HDPE body with EPDM seals. Cam lock compatible for rapid discharge connections. |
| Base Pallet | HDPE / Steel | Integrated base with forklift entry channels. Forms the bottom structural support of the cage assembly. 4-way directional access. |
| UV Stabilizers | Additive | Mixed into the HDPE resin during tank fabrication. Provides resistance to UV degradation for extended outdoor storage and transport. |
Common Applications & Industries
Poly caged IBC totes are used across virtually every industry that handles liquids in bulk. Their UN/DOT certification, food grade ratings, and chemical resistance make them incredibly versatile.
Agriculture
Fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, irrigation water, animal feed supplements, crop protection chemicals.
Food & Beverage
Ingredients, syrups, oils, juices, wine, beer, dairy, sauces, flavorings, consumable liquids.
Chemical Processing
Solvents, acids, caustics, intermediates, polymer solutions, process chemicals, cleaning compounds.
Oil & Gas
Lubricants, greases, drilling fluids, hydraulic fluids, diesel additives, produced water.
Construction
Concrete additives, sealants, coatings, adhesives, water for dust control, deicing fluids.
Water & Rainwater
Potable water transport, rainwater harvesting, emergency water storage, aquaponics, hydroponics.
Coatings & Paints
Water-based and solvent-based paints, coatings, stains, primers, dyes, pigments, inks.
Waste Management
Wastewater, process effluent, waste oil, hazardous waste collection, treatment chemicals.
Pharmaceuticals
Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), intermediates, solvent handling, bulk drug components.
Hand Sanitizer
Bulk hand sanitizer storage and distribution — ethanol/isopropyl alcohol based formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Ordering & Safety Notes
- Always verify chemical compatibility between your stored product and HDPE material before filling. IBC Tanks LLC is not responsible for incompatibility issues.
- Never exceed the 1.9 SG rating — overloading voids UN/DOT certification, compromises structural integrity, and creates serious safety hazards.
- All poly caged IBC totes are shipped empty and clean. No residual product from prior use remains in any new or rebottled tank.
- Rebottled IBC totes may have cosmetic wear on the cage (minor rust, paint flaking) — this is normal and does not affect structural integrity or certification.
- For UN/DOT regulated shipments, verify that the IBC’s certification plate is legible and matches the cargo’s packing group classification.
- IBC totes should be inspected before each use for damage, leaks, cage integrity, and proper valve/gasket function.
- Prices shown are for standard configurations with EPDM seals. VITON seals are available upon request for aggressive chemical applications at additional cost.
- Freight shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on delivery location. Free shipping may be available on qualifying bulk orders — contact us for details.
Related IBC Tote Categories
Ready to Order Poly Caged IBC Totes?
Shop our full inventory of new and rebottled poly caged IBC containers — or contact our team for bulk pricing and custom quotes.