
IBC totes are a standard shipping container, typically made of plastic, but can also be made of metal or other materials. They come in various sizes, but the most common ones are 110-gallon, 155-gallon, 275-gallon, and 330-gallon totes.
The weight of an IBC tote depends on its size and material. For example, a 275-gallon plastic IBC tote can weigh around 450 pounds when empty.
IBC totes have standard dimensions, which include a diameter of 35.5 inches and a height of 36 inches. These dimensions can vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and type of IBC tote.
Types of IBC Totes
There are two main types of IBC totes: caged and non-caged IBC totes. The most commonly used type is caged IBC totes.
Caged IBC totes are the preferred choice for storing liquids, particularly water. IBC cages are often used for commodities like water due to their versatility and ease of use.
The dimensions of an IBC tote make it a convenient option for businesses that need to move liquids.
Standard Square Stackable

The Standard Square Stackable IBC totes are a popular choice for many businesses. They're designed for stacking and are available in various sizes.
One of the key features of these totes is their weight capacity. The 120 Gallon Standard Square Stackable IBC Tote weighs 168 pounds empty, which is equivalent to 76.20 kilograms. This is a significant consideration when handling and storing these totes.
In terms of volume capacity, the Standard Square Stackable IBC totes range from 120 to 330 gallons. The 120 Gallon tote has a volume capacity of 120 gallons, while the 330 Gallon tote has a capacity of 330 gallons.
Here's a breakdown of the Standard Square Stackable IBC totes by size and weight:
The prices for these totes vary depending on the size. The 120 Gallon Standard Square Stackable IBC Tote costs $1,269.99, while the 330 Gallon tote costs $1,399.99.
Ultratainer
The Ultratainer is a popular choice among IBC tote users, and for good reason. It's available in three different sizes: 220, 275, and 330 gallons.
The Ultratainer 220 Gallon model weighs 268 pounds empty, which is equivalent to 121.56 kilograms. You can find it listed for $2,229.99.
The Ultratainer 275 Gallon model is a bit heavier, weighing 289 pounds empty, or 131.08 kilograms. It's priced at $1,879.99.
The largest Ultratainer model, the 330 Gallon, weighs 309 pounds empty, or 140.16 kilograms. It's listed for $2,049.99.
Here's a comparison of the three Ultratainer models:
Megatainer
Megatainer is a type of IBC tote that comes in different models, each with its own weight and volume capacity.
The Megatainer HD model weighs 570 pounds empty, while the Megatainer LX model weighs 542 pounds empty.
Both the Megatainer HD and LX models have a volume capacity of 550 gallons.
The Megatainer HD and LX models have empty weights of 258.55 kg and 245.85 kg respectively.
Here's a quick comparison of the Megatainer HD and LX models:
What Are Totes?
IBC totes are huge, reusable containers that hold liquids in relatively large quantities and have a forkliftable base.

The most common types of IBC totes are caged and non-caged IBC totes.
Caged IBC totes are the most commonly used design type, often used for storing water.
IBC totes are used for various commodities' storage, transit, and operation integration.
Water is the commodity used most often with IBC cages.
Weight of an Empty Tote
The weight of an empty IBC tote can vary depending on the model and size.
According to the standard square stackable IBC weight chart, the empty weight of a 275-gallon standard square stackable IBC tote is 209 pounds.
You can also check the weight of an IBC tote by putting it on a scale, as one user did and confirmed that their 275-gallon IBC tote weighed 140 pounds.
The standard square stackable IBC weight chart lists the empty weights of different IBC totes, including 168, 188, 209, and 234 pounds for 120, 220, 275, and 330-gallon totes respectively.
For another approach, see: Legal Tractor Trailer Weight
Here's a table summarizing the empty weights of different IBC totes from the standard square stackable IBC weight chart:
The premium stacking IBC weight chart also lists the empty weights of different IBC totes, including 185, 211, 232, and 257 pounds for 120, 220, 275, and 330-gallon totes respectively.
Materials
Carbon steel IBC totes are a popular choice for many industries due to their durability and affordability. They come in various weights and capacities.
The weight of a carbon steel IBC tote can range from 165 pounds to 675 pounds, depending on the model type. The lightest model weighs 165 pounds, while the heaviest model weighs 675 pounds.
Here's a breakdown of the weights and capacities of some common carbon steel IBC tote models:
Carbon Steel
Carbon Steel is a popular choice for Industrial Bulk Containers (IBCs) due to its durability and versatility.
The weight of a Carbon Steel IBC varies depending on the model type. For example, a 165-pound Carbon Steel IBC has a volume capacity of 110 gallons.

Carbon Steel IBCs are available in different sizes to suit various needs.
A 270-pound Carbon Steel IBC has a volume capacity of 180 gallons.
Here's a list of Carbon Steel IBC weights and volumes:
The weights of Carbon Steel IBCs are also listed in kilograms, ranging from 74.84 kg to 306.17 kg.
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel is a popular choice for industrial containers due to its durability and resistance to corrosion.
The weight of Stainless Steel IBCs (Intermediate Bulk Containers) varies greatly, ranging from 315 pounds for a 120-gallon capacity to 650 pounds for a 550-gallon capacity.
Empty weights for Stainless Steel IBCs are typically measured in both pounds and kilograms, with the 120-gallon capacity weighing 142.88 kilograms.
A 180-gallon Stainless Steel Supertainer Tote has a price range of $3,599.99 to $3,699.99.
For larger capacities, the prices increase accordingly, with a 550-gallon Stainless Steel Supertainer Tote costing $4,899.99.
Here's a breakdown of the weights for different Stainless Steel IBC capacities:
The Authority on IBC Totes

IBC totes are a type of container used for storing and transporting liquids, and they come in various sizes to suit different needs.
The standard IBC tote size is 55 gallons, which is the most widely used size in the industry. This size is ideal for storing and transporting large quantities of liquids.
IBC totes are made of durable plastic and are designed to withstand heavy use. They are also easy to clean and maintain.
The weight of an empty IBC tote can range from 35 to 50 pounds, depending on the size and material. A 55-gallon IBC tote typically weighs around 40 pounds when empty.
IBC totes are used in a variety of industries, including food and beverage, chemical, and pharmaceutical. They are also used in laboratories and research facilities.
The weight of a filled IBC tote can be calculated by adding the weight of the liquid to the weight of the empty tote. For example, a 55-gallon IBC tote filled with water would weigh around 550 pounds.
Transporting and Handling
A 275-gallon IBC can weigh almost 2,500 pounds, so be aware of the weight of the tank when it's full. Make sure the equipment you'll lift it with can safely handle those weights and the IBC tote sizes.
Most standard pickup trucks cannot handle that type of weight in the bed of the truck, so you may need to move the tote with a trailer. It's essential to consider the weight capacity of your equipment to avoid any accidents or damage.
Here are some key points to remember when transporting an IBC tank:
- Be aware of the weight of the tank when it's full.
- Choose equipment that can safely handle the weight and IBC tote sizes.
- Consider using a trailer if your pickup truck can't handle the weight.
Caged
Caged IBC Totes are a popular choice for transporting liquids due to their durability and ease of use. They come in different sizes, with the most common being the 275 Gallon and 330 Gallon models.
The Caged IBC Tote (Composite) model weighs around 135 pounds empty, which is equivalent to 61.23 kilograms. This weight is a crucial factor to consider when transporting these totes.
The volume capacity of a Caged IBC Tote (Composite) model is 275 Gallons. If you're looking for a larger capacity, the 330 Gallon model is also available.
Here's a quick comparison of the Caged IBC Tote models:
You can choose from new or rebottled IBC Totes, with prices ranging from $259.99 to $349.99. The choice ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
Premium Stacking
Premium Stacking IBCs are a great option for transporting and handling liquids, with weights ranging from 185 to 257 pounds empty. The 120 Gallon Premium Stacking IBC Tote weighs 185 pounds empty.
The weight of these IBCs is important to consider when transporting them, especially if you're doing it by hand. The 220 Gallon Premium Stacking IBC Tote, for example, weighs 211 pounds empty.
You can find the weights and volumes of these IBCs in the chart below.
The prices for these IBCs are also listed, ranging from $1,279.99 to $1,419.99.
Moving and Transporting a Tank

Moving a tank can be a daunting task, especially if you're not aware of its weight. A 275-gallon IBC tank can weigh almost 2,500 pounds.
First, you need to consider the weight of the tank when it's full. A 330-gallon tank can weigh up to 3,000 pounds, which is a significant amount of weight.
Make sure the equipment you use to lift the tank can safely handle those weights and the IBC tote sizes. This is crucial to avoid any accidents or damage.
Standard pickup trucks often can't handle the weight of an IBC tank, so you may need to use a trailer to transport it. This is especially true if you're moving a 330-gallon tank.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when moving an IBC tank:
- Weight: A 275-gallon IBC tank can weigh almost 2,500 pounds, while a 330-gallon tank can weigh up to 3,000 pounds.
- Equipment: Make sure your equipment can handle the weight and size of the tank.
- Transportation: Standard pickup trucks may not be able to handle the weight, so consider using a trailer.
Key Specifications
When choosing an IBC tote, it's essential to consider its weight. An empty 275-gallon tote weighs approximately 135 pounds.
The material used to make IBC totes is also crucial. Most 275-gallon totes are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a durable and chemically resistant plastic that is also FDA-approved for food-grade applications.
IBC totes typically consist of a blow-molded HDPE inner tank enclosed within a galvanized steel cage for added strength and stability.
Here are some key specifications to keep in mind:
- Material: HDPE (high-density polyethylene)
- Construction: Blow-molded HDPE inner tank with a galvanized steel cage
- Weight: 135 pounds (empty)
- Lid Size: 6 inches in diameter
- Outlet Type: 2-inch NPT (National Pipe Thread) or camlock fittings
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an IBC weigh empty?
An empty IBC typically weighs around 65 kilograms. This weight includes the container, nozzle, and steel cage.
Sources
- https://www.ibctanks.com/ibc-weights-table
- https://www.recycledh2o.net/2016/07/08/how-much-does-an-empty-ibc-tote-weigh/
- https://www.tank-depot.com/blog/what-are-the-dimensions-of-a-275-gallon-tote
- https://www.precisionibc.com/tanks-and-accessories/stainless-steel-totes/side-discharge/
- https://toteheater.com/blogs/news/how-much-do-ibc-totes-weigh
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