IBC Tote Dimensions & Specifications: 275 vs. 330 Gallon
A Complete Size and Specs Guide for Caged Intermediate Bulk Containers
Key Takeaways
- A 275-gallon IBC tote measures about 40" L × 48" W × 46" H and weighs 120–140 lbs empty.
- A 330-gallon IBC tote measures about 40" L × 48" W × 53" H and weighs 145–170 lbs empty.
- Both sizes feature HDPE plastic bottles, steel cages, and pallet bases, with slight differences in capacity and height.
IBC totes are designed for efficient bulk storage and transport, fitting neatly into standard warehouse racking and truck trailers. Understanding their size and weight is critical for:
- Logistics planning – ensuring totes fit in trailers, containers, or racks.
- Load calculations – accounting for filled tote weight (2,200–2,800 lbs with water).
- Equipment compatibility – making sure forklifts, pallet jacks, and handling systems can support tote dimensions.
Industries & Uses for 275 Gallon Totes
The 275-gallon tote is a widely used option because it balances capacity with easier handling compared to larger sizes. It’s commonly used in:
- Food and beverage manufacturing – for syrups, flavor concentrates, and liquid ingredients (when new or rebottled)
- Agriculture – for storing fertilizers, pesticides, or moderate volumes of water
- Chemical processing – for cleaning agents, solvents, and coatings
- Construction – for liquid admixtures, adhesives, and coatings in building projects
- Recycling and waste management – for collecting or transporting used non-hazardous liquids
Industries & Uses for 330 Gallon Totes
The 330-gallon tote offers maximum storage volume within the same footprint, making it more efficient for bulk handling. It’s often chosen in:
- Food production and processing – for edible oils, dairy bases, and other bulk ingredients (when new or rebottled)
- Beverage industries – wineries, breweries, and distilleries that benefit from larger batch volumes
- Agriculture – for large-scale water storage, liquid feed, and crop treatment applications
- Industrial manufacturing – for inks, dyes, detergents, lubricants, and other liquid inputs
- Emergency and utility use – as large-scale water storage for disaster relief or temporary supply systems
275 vs. 330 Gallon: Specifications
| Feature | 275 Gallon Tote | 330 Gallon Tote |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 275 gallons (1,040 liters) | 330 gallons (1,250 liters) |
| Dimensions | 40" L × 48" W × 46" H | 40" L × 48" W × 53" H |
| Empty Weight | 120–140 lbs | 145–170 lbs |
| Inner Bottle Material | HDPE | HDPE |
| Full Weight (water) | ~2,200–2,300 lbs | ~2,750–2,800 lbs |
| Valve | Ball, Butterfly, Gate, or Check | Ball, Butterfly, Gate, or Check |
| Fitting | 2" or 3" Camlock , Buttress, NPT | 2" or 3" Camlock , Buttress, NPT |
| Pallet Base | Plastic, steel, or wood | Plastic, steel, or wood |
Additional Considerations
- Certification: New totes may carry FDA, NSF, or UN/DOT approval, depending on intended use.
- Condition Types: Options include new, rebottled, reconditioned, and used—each suited to different applications.
- Reuse: Once used, totes should not be considered food-grade unless rebottled. Previous contents should always be considered before reuse.
Conclusion
Whether you choose 275-gallon or 330-gallon IBC totes, both sizes offer efficient, palletized bulk storage. The main difference comes down to capacity and height, with 330-gallon totes offering extra volume in the same footprint.
