We Buy Your Used Containers
Turn surplus containers, and packaging materials into cash. We purchase all types, all conditions, all quantities.
What We Buy
If it is an IBC tote or IBC tank, there is a good chance we want to buy it. Here is a detailed breakdown of what we regularly purchase, including specifications and pricing factors.
IBC Totes (Composite)
HDPE bottle in steel cage on pallet base. All capacities accepted, from 275 to 350 gallon. Any condition from like-new to heavily used.
Specifications We Accept
275-gallon, 330-gallon, and 350-gallon capacities. Composite, food-grade, and UN-rated models accepted.
Pricing Notes
Pricing varies by capacity, bottle condition, cage integrity, and quantity. Food-grade and recently manufactured totes command the highest prices.
IBC Totes
Cage frame, steel, composite, and flexible. All capacities. Previously held food-grade, chemical, or industrial liquids.
Specifications We Accept
275-gallon, 330-gallon, 350-gallon capacities. Steel cage, metal bottom, or full plastic construction.
Pricing Notes
Food-grade and recently manufactured totes bring premium prices. Chemical totes must be properly rinsed.
Have something not listed here? Contact us anyway -- we are always looking to expand what we source.
Pricing Factors: How We Determine Value
Our pricing is transparent and based on objective criteria. Here are the key factors that determine what we pay for your used containers.
Container Condition
The overall condition of the container is the single biggest pricing factor. We use a standardized grading system to assess each item.
Minimal wear, no structural damage, clean and dry. Suitable for direct resale or reuse in demanding applications. Commands the highest purchase price.
Visible wear and cosmetic marks, but structurally sound. May have minor repairs needed. Still functional for most applications. Mid-range pricing.
Significant wear, structural issues, or damage. May be suitable for light use or recycling only. Lower pricing but still has value -- we never turn containers away.
Container Type & Material
Different container types have different market values. IBC totes with intact HDPE bottles and undamaged steel cages command the highest prices due to their durability and reuse potential. Stainless steel IBC tanks retain value especially well. Food-grade and recently manufactured totes bring premium prices.
Quantity & Consistency
Larger quantities generally command better per-unit pricing because they are more efficient for us to pick up and process. Businesses that provide a consistent, recurring supply of containers receive premium pricing as part of our partnership programs.
Location & Logistics
Your location relative to our facilities and existing routes affects net pricing. Facilities near our hubs or along our regular routes benefit from lower freight costs, which allows us to pay more for the containers themselves. We always aim to make the logistics work in your favor.
The Buying Process
Selling your used containers to us is straightforward. Here is how it works from start to finish.
Contact Us
Reach out by email or through the form on this page. Let us know what types of containers you have, approximate quantities, condition, and your location. Photos are helpful but not required.
Get a Quote
Our team evaluates your containers based on type, condition, quantity, and current market demand. We provide a fair, transparent quote -- usually within the same business day.
Schedule Pickup
Once you accept our quote, we schedule a convenient pickup time. For bulk quantities, we dispatch our own trucks. For smaller lots, we arrange efficient freight pickup.
Inspection & Payment
We inspect the containers upon arrival at our facility. If everything matches the description, we process payment promptly -- typically within 5-7 business days via check or wire transfer.
Payment Terms & Methods
We offer flexible payment options designed to fit your accounting processes and cash flow requirements.
Company Check
Standard payment method for most transactions. Mailed to your accounts receivable address on file.
Best for routine transactions
Wire Transfer
Fastest electronic payment option. Ideal for large transactions where you need funds quickly.
Best for large amounts
ACH Direct Deposit
Electronic payment direct to your bank account. No check to deposit. Set up once and all future payments are automatic.
Best for recurring sellers
Net-30 Account
For established partnerships with regular transactions. Consolidates multiple pickups into a single monthly payment.
Best for high-volume partners
Minimum Quantities by Container Type
While we accept all quantities, free pickup service requires the following minimums. Smaller quantities can be shipped to us at your expense.
| Container Type | Free Pickup Minimum | Best Value Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| IBC Totes (Composite) | 10 units | 48+ units (full truckload) | Drained, rinsed preferred. Labels intact is fine. |
| IBC Tanks (Stainless Steel) | 5 units | 20+ units | Drained and rinsed. Previous contents documentation helpful. |
How We Evaluate Your Containers
Our evaluation process is thorough, consistent, and transparent. Here is exactly what our team looks for when assessing your containers.
Structural Integrity
We check for wall strength, base stability, and overall rigidity. Containers must hold their rated weight safely. Minor bowing or denting may be acceptable depending on severity.
Cleanliness
Food-grade and chemical containers are assessed for residue and contamination. Clean, dry containers command higher prices. Rinsing totes before selling improves your quote.
Bottle & Valve Condition
For IBC totes, we inspect the HDPE bottle for cracks, discoloration, and warping. Valves are checked for proper function and seal integrity. Totes with intact bottles and working valves retain the most value.
Repairs & Modifications
We note any previous repairs, patches, or modifications. Professional repairs that maintain structural integrity are acceptable. Improvised repairs may reduce the grade.
Age & Usage History
Newer containers with fewer use cycles generally grade higher. Manufacturing date codes on IBC totes help us determine age and remaining useful life.
Labeling & Markings
Previous labeling, hazmat markings, or branding affects reuse potential. Containers with removable labels are more versatile. Permanent markings may limit the resale market.
Pickup Options
We offer flexible pickup arrangements to match your schedule and volume. Choose the option that works best for your operation.
Scheduled Pickup
Set up a recurring pickup schedule -- weekly, biweekly, or monthly -- that aligns with your production cycles. Our truck arrives on the same day and time, so your team can have containers staged and ready. Ideal for businesses with predictable container output.
- Pre-negotiated rates locked in
- Dedicated driver familiar with your site
- Consolidated monthly invoicing
On-Demand Pickup
Call when you have a load ready and we will dispatch a truck. Typical response time is 48-72 hours depending on your location and our route availability. Perfect for businesses with irregular container volumes or one-time surpluses from clean-outs and facility changes.
- 48-72 hour response time
- No long-term commitment required
- Great for warehouse clean-outs
Emergency / Expedited Pickup
Need containers removed urgently? Facility closing, lease ending, or warehouse overflow? Our expedited service gets a truck to your location within 24 hours in most markets. A small rush fee applies, but it is far less than the cost of a dumpster rental or waste hauler.
- 24-hour response in most areas
- Large volume capacity available
- Facility cleanout specialists
Self-delivery is also an option. Bring your containers to our facility and avoid any freight charges. Call ahead for receiving hours and dock availability.
Why Sell to IBC Recycle?
Fair Market Pricing
We base our offers on current market conditions, container type, and condition. You get a competitive price that reflects the real value of your materials.
All Conditions Accepted
From pristine to well-worn, we find value in containers others might reject. Badly damaged items are recycled responsibly, so nothing goes to waste.
Hassle-Free Pickup
We handle the logistics. Our trucks come to your facility, load the containers, and haul them away. You do not need to arrange any shipping.
Fast Payment
We understand cash flow matters. Once containers are inspected and confirmed, payment is processed quickly so you are not left waiting.
Environmental Responsibility
Every container you sell to us gets a second life or is recycled responsibly. You can feel good knowing your surplus is not ending up in a landfill.
Repeat Partnerships
Many of our suppliers work with us on a recurring basis. We can set up scheduled pickups for businesses that generate a steady stream of used containers.
How a Food Distributor Turned Waste Into $47,000 Annual Revenue
A regional food distribution company was paying $3,200 per month to a waste hauler to remove and dispose of used IBC totes and tanks. The containers were going straight to landfill, creating both a cost burden and a sustainability problem for their corporate reporting.
IBC Recycle implemented a structured buyback program with biweekly pickups. We purchased the reusable IBC totes at fair market value and recycled the damaged containers. The waste hauler contract was terminated entirely.
The result: instead of spending $38,400 per year on disposal, the distributor now earns approximately $47,000 per year from selling their used containers to us. That represents an $85,400 annual swing from cost to revenue. They also received environmental impact documentation showing 142 tons of material diverted from landfill in the first year.
Seasonal Demand Calendar
Container prices fluctuate with seasonal demand. Knowing when demand peaks can help you time your sales for the best possible pricing.
Q1: January - March
Post-holiday wind-down. Good time to clear out accumulated inventory from Q4 operations. Container demand begins to rise in March as spring shipping ramps up.
Q2: April - June
Spring and early summer bring strong demand for all container types. Agriculture, construction, and manufacturing ramp up. Excellent time to sell for top prices.
Q3: July - September
Peak season for container demand across nearly all industries. Businesses stock up for Q4 holiday production. Container prices reach their annual highs.
Q4: October - December
Demand remains solid through October, then moderates in November-December. Many businesses do year-end cleanouts, creating good supply opportunities.
Bulk Purchasing Programs
If your business generates a steady volume of used containers -- whether from manufacturing, distribution, retail, or any other operation -- we offer structured bulk purchasing programs designed to simplify the process for both sides.
Scheduled Pickups
Weekly, biweekly, or monthly pickup schedules tailored to your output.
Pre-Negotiated Rates
Lock in pricing so you know exactly what your containers are worth each month.
Dedicated Account Manager
A single point of contact who knows your operation and handles everything.
Sustainability Reporting
Receive documentation showing the environmental impact of your container recycling for ESG and compliance reporting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will you pay for my containers?
Pricing depends on type, condition, quantity, and demand. We usually send a fair market quote the same business day after reviewing your details.
Do you accept damaged or heavily used containers?
Yes. All conditions are accepted. Items not suitable for resale are recycled and paid based on material value.
How quickly do you pay after pickup?
Standard payment is 5–7 business days after inspection. Wire or ACH can clear in 3–5 business days.
Is pickup free?
Pickup is free for typical minimums of 10+ units. Smaller lots can ship to us or be collected with freight deducted from payment.
What if my containers held hazardous materials?
We accept them if properly emptied and rinsed with documentation of previous contents; additional handling fees may apply.
Can you provide a Certificate of Recycling?
Yes. Containers routed to recycling receive a Certificate of Recycling detailing materials processed and disposition.
Do you pick up nationwide?
We pick up across the 48 contiguous states via our fleet and carrier network. Alaska and Hawaii can be arranged case by case.
How do I get the best pricing?
Grade A food-grade totes, stainless tanks, larger volumes, and recurring programs receive the strongest offers, but all containers have value.
Can I set up recurring pickups?
Yes. We offer scheduled pickups with locked pricing, dedicated account support, and consolidated invoicing for repeat sellers.
Ready to Sell Your Containers?
Tell us what you have and we will get back to you with a quote. Include the type, approximate quantity, condition, and your location for the fastest response.