IBC Resources — Guides, Articles & Reference Materials
Your complete resource hub for everything IBC. From buying guides and technical specs to industry standards and best practices — find the information you need.
IBC Buying Guides
Whether you're purchasing your first IBC or optimizing your container fleet, these guides help you make informed decisions about types, sizes, conditions, and applications.
IBC Types & Materials Guide
Comprehensive guide covering all five types of IBC containers — composite, stainless steel, carbon steel, plastic, and collapsible. Includes pros, cons, common uses, and material details for each type.
Read MoreIBC Size Guide & Specifications
Detailed dimensions, weights, capacities, valve specs, stacking guidelines, and UN/DOT marking explanations for 275 and 330 gallon IBC totes.
Read MoreUsed vs Reconditioned vs Rebottled IBCs
Understand the differences between used, reconditioned, and rebottled IBC totes. Learn which condition grade is right for your application and budget.
Read MoreHow to Choose the Right IBC
Step-by-step guide for selecting the right IBC tote based on your stored materials, volume needs, budget, and regulatory requirements.
Read More275 vs 330 Gallon Comparison
Side-by-side comparison of the two standard IBC sizes including dimensions, weight differences, capacity advantages, and when to choose each.
Read MoreFood Grade IBC Requirements
What makes an IBC food grade, FDA compliance requirements, proper cleaning procedures, and how to verify food-grade certification on used IBCs.
Read MoreTechnical References
Detailed technical specifications, component breakdowns, and engineering data for IBC containers and their components.
Valve Types & Specifications
Detailed specifications for 2" butterfly, 2" ball, and 3" butterfly valves including connection sizes, flow rates, materials, and compatibility information.
View ReferenceIBC Component Breakdown
Detailed look at every IBC component — bottles, cages, valves, pallets, gaskets, and lids. Includes material options, replacement considerations, and compatibility notes.
View ReferenceTemperature & Chemical Compatibility
Temperature ratings for HDPE bottles, steel cages, valves, and gaskets. Plus guidance on chemical compatibility for common stored materials.
View ReferenceStacking & Storage Guidelines
Safe stacking heights for full and empty IBCs, racking requirements, transport stacking limits, and important safety considerations.
View ReferenceIndustry Standards & Regulations
IBC containers are subject to various federal and industry regulations depending on their use. Here's an overview of the key standards that apply to IBC totes.
UN/DOT Certification
The United Nations and Department of Transportation require specific certifications for IBCs used to transport hazardous materials. UN ratings (e.g., UN 31HA1) indicate the IBC type, packing group, and maximum gross weight. IBCs must be retested and recertified at regular intervals (typically every 2.5 or 5 years) to maintain their UN rating.
FDA Compliance for Food-Grade IBCs
IBCs used for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical applications must comply with FDA regulations. This means the HDPE bottle material must be FDA-approved (21 CFR 177.1520), the container must be properly cleaned and sanitized, and there must be no contamination from previous contents.
DOT Shipping Regulations
The Department of Transportation regulates the shipping of hazardous materials in IBCs under 49 CFR. This includes requirements for container certification, labeling, placarding, and documentation. Non-hazardous materials can be shipped in non-certified IBCs, but certified containers provide an extra layer of safety assurance.
OSHA Workplace Safety
OSHA regulations address the safe handling, storage, and use of IBCs in the workplace. This includes requirements for secondary containment, proper labeling, employee training, and safe stacking practices. Employers must ensure IBC storage areas are properly maintained and that workers are trained on IBC handling procedures.
Need Compliance Guidance?
Navigating IBC regulations can be complex. Our team can help you understand which standards apply to your application and ensure you're using the right containers for compliance. Email us at info@compositeibcs.com for assistance.
Contact Our TeamBest Practices & Checklists
Practical guidelines for inspecting, storing, and cleaning IBC totes to maximize their lifespan and ensure safe operation.
IBC Inspection Checklist
- 1Check bottle for cracks, bulging, or discoloration
- 2Verify valve operates smoothly and seals completely
- 3Inspect cage for bent, broken, or corroded members
- 4Check pallet for structural integrity and forklift entry
- 5Verify gaskets are in good condition and properly seated
- 6Confirm lid/cap creates a tight seal
- 7Check UN/DOT marking for current certification
- 8Look for any residual odors or contamination
IBC Storage Best Practices
- 1Store on flat, level surfaces rated for the load
- 2Keep away from direct sunlight when possible (UV degradation)
- 3Maintain adequate spacing for ventilation and access
- 4Use secondary containment for hazardous materials
- 5Never exceed manufacturer stacking limits
- 6Protect from freezing temperatures if contents can freeze
- 7Keep valves closed and capped when not in use
- 8Label contents clearly on all IBCs in storage
IBC Cleaning Guidelines
- 1Always clean IBCs before switching to different contents
- 2Triple rinse with appropriate solvent for previous contents
- 3Use hot water (140°F+) for removing oils and greases
- 4Inspect interior after cleaning for residue or staining
- 5Replace gaskets if they show any signs of chemical damage
- 6Document cleaning procedures for regulatory compliance
- 7Consider professional reconditioning for heavily contaminated IBCs
- 8Never mix incompatible chemicals during the cleaning process
Downloadable Resources
Printable guides, spec sheets, and reference materials for your team. Contact us to request any of these resources.
Helpful Links
Quick access to the most popular pages on our site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about buying, using, and maintaining IBC totes.
Visit PageOur Services
Full overview of our reconditioning, cleaning, buyback, disposal, and delivery services.
Visit PageProducts & Inventory
Browse our current inventory of used and reconditioned IBC totes, parts, and accessories.
Visit PageIndustry Applications
How businesses in different industries use IBC totes for their specific applications.
Visit PageIBC Blog & Articles
Expert articles, guides, and tips about IBC totes, maintenance, and industry news.
Visit PageSustainability Commitment
How IBC reuse contributes to environmental sustainability and our green practices.
Visit PageHave Questions? We're Here to Help.
Our team of IBC experts can answer any question about containers, specifications, regulations, or applications. Reach out for a free consultation.