IBC Tank Sizing Guide
Complete reference for IBC container dimensions, capacities, and specifications
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Quick Size Reference
IBC (Intermediate Bulk Container) tanks come in several standard sizes. The 275-gallon (1,040-liter) tank is by far the most common and widely available size in North America.
Visual Size Comparison
* Visual representations are approximate relative proportions, not to scale
Complete Size Comparison Table
| Capacity | Liters | Height | Width | Depth | Tare Weight | Max Gross | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 120 Gallon | 454 L | 36" | 40" | 32" | 100 lbs | 1,100 lbs | Limited |
| 180 Gallon | 681 L | 40" | 40" | 40" | 115 lbs | 1,600 lbs | Moderate |
| 275 GallonMost Popular | 1,040 L | 46" | 40" | 48" | 130 lbs | 2,500 lbs | High - Most Common |
| 330 Gallon | 1,249 L | 52" | 40" | 48" | 145 lbs | 2,900 lbs | Good |
| 550 Gallon | 2,082 L | 54" | 48" | 60" | 190 lbs | 4,800 lbs | Specialty Order |
Detailed Size Specifications
In-depth specifications for each IBC tank size, including common applications, valve types, transportation capacity, and material construction details.
120 Gallon
(454 L)
Height
36"
Width
40"
Depth
32"
Tare Weight
100 lbs
Max Gross Weight
1,100 lbs
Wall Thickness
2.0 mm
Valve Type
2" Butterfly
Pallet Options
Steel / Composite
Top Opening
6" screw cap
Fill Weight (Water)
~1,000 lbs (water)
Truck Capacity
28 per 53-ft trailer (single layer)
Availability
Limited
Common Applications
Small batch processing, laboratories, specialty chemicals, flavor concentrates, pharmaceutical ingredients
180 Gallon
(681 L)
Height
40"
Width
40"
Depth
40"
Tare Weight
115 lbs
Max Gross Weight
1,600 lbs
Wall Thickness
2.0 mm
Valve Type
2" Butterfly
Pallet Options
Steel / Composite
Top Opening
6" screw cap
Fill Weight (Water)
~1,501 lbs (water)
Truck Capacity
24 per 53-ft trailer (single layer)
Availability
Moderate
Common Applications
Medium-volume storage, food processing, agricultural chemicals, cleaning solutions, wine production
275 Gallon
(1,040 L)
Height
46"
Width
40"
Depth
48"
Tare Weight
130 lbs
Max Gross Weight
2,500 lbs
Wall Thickness
2.0 mm
Valve Type
2" Butterfly
Pallet Options
Steel / Composite / Wood
Top Opening
6" screw cap or 9" lid
Fill Weight (Water)
~2,294 lbs (water)
Truck Capacity
20 per 53-ft trailer (single layer)
Availability
High - Most Common
Common Applications
General purpose, most common size for all industries including food, chemical, agricultural, and water storage
330 Gallon
(1,249 L)
Height
52"
Width
40"
Depth
48"
Tare Weight
145 lbs
Max Gross Weight
2,900 lbs
Wall Thickness
2.5 mm
Valve Type
2" Butterfly / 3" Butterfly
Pallet Options
Steel / Composite
Top Opening
6" screw cap or 9" lid
Fill Weight (Water)
~2,752 lbs (water)
Truck Capacity
20 per 53-ft trailer (single layer)
Availability
Good
Common Applications
High-volume liquid storage, beverage production, chemical transport, industrial solvents, bulk food ingredients
550 Gallon
(2,082 L)
Height
54"
Width
48"
Depth
60"
Tare Weight
190 lbs
Max Gross Weight
4,800 lbs
Wall Thickness
3.0 mm
Valve Type
3" Butterfly
Pallet Options
Steel (Heavy Duty)
Top Opening
6" or 9" screw cap
Fill Weight (Water)
~4,587 lbs (water)
Truck Capacity
10-12 per 53-ft trailer
Availability
Specialty Order
Common Applications
Bulk storage, industrial applications, large-scale operations, water treatment, agricultural irrigation
IBC Tanks vs 55-Gallon Drums
Wondering whether IBC tanks or drums are better for your operation? Here is a side-by-side comparison of a standard 275-gallon IBC versus the equivalent capacity in 55-gallon drums.
275-Gallon IBC vs Five 55-Gallon Drums
| Metric | IBC Tank (275 gal) | Drums (5 x 55 gal) |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 275 gallons (standard) | 55 gallons (standard) |
| Equivalent Drums | 1 IBC | 5 drums |
| Floor Space | ~13.3 sq ft | ~16.5 sq ft (5 drums) |
| Handling Operations | 1 forklift move | 5 individual moves |
| Fill/Empty Time | Single connection | 5 separate operations |
| Cost per Gallon (Used) | $0.36-$0.55 | $0.55-$0.91 |
| Stackable When Full | 2-high | 2-3 high (with pallet) |
| Recyclability | 95%+ of materials | Steel: 100%, Plastic: varies |
| Truck Capacity (53-ft) | ~20 (5,500 gal total) | ~80 (4,400 gal total) |
When to Choose IBCs Over Drums
Choose IBC Tanks When:
- You need 100+ gallons per batch or delivery
- You want to minimize handling operations
- Floor space efficiency is important
- You have forklift access at your facility
- You need gravity-fed dispensing via bottom valve
- Cost per gallon of storage is a priority
Choose Drums When:
- You need small, portable quantities (under 55 gal)
- Manual handling without forklift is required
- You store many different products in small quantities
- Your facility has narrow doorways or limited space
- Regulatory requirements specify drum packaging
- Products require sealed, tamper-evident containers
How to Choose the Right IBC Tank Size
Selecting the right IBC tank size depends on several factors. Consider these key aspects to make the best decision for your operation.
Volume Requirements
Calculate your daily, weekly, or monthly liquid needs. The 275-gallon IBC is the industry standard and fits most applications. For smaller operations, 120 or 180 gallon tanks work well. High-volume operations may need 330 or 550 gallon options. Consider whether multiple smaller tanks or fewer larger tanks better suit your workflow and space.
Space Constraints
Measure your storage area, doorways, and transport vehicle dimensions. Standard 275-gallon tanks fit a standard 40x48 pallet footprint. Make sure to account for forklift access and stacking clearance when planning your layout. Indoor ceiling height matters for stacking - allow at least 6 inches above the top of stacked tanks.
Liquid Type & Compatibility
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) inner bottles are compatible with most chemicals, food products, and industrial liquids. For highly corrosive substances, verify chemical compatibility charts. Food-grade tanks require FDA-compliant materials and UN/DOT certification. Aromatic solvents, strong oxidizers, and certain concentrated acids may require stainless steel IBCs instead.
Weight Considerations
Factor in the combined weight of the tank plus liquid. Water weighs approximately 8.34 lbs per gallon. A full 275-gallon tank can weigh over 2,400 lbs. Ensure your floors, shelving, and transport equipment can handle the max gross weight. Your forklift must be rated for the full load weight plus a safety margin.
Stacking & Storage
Most IBC tanks are designed for 2-high stacking when full and up to 4-high when empty. The 275-gallon and 330-gallon sizes stack most efficiently. Ensure your cage frame is in good condition for safe stacking. Never stack damaged or compromised containers. Check the stacking test weight on the UN marking plate to confirm rated capacity.
Transportation & Logistics
Standard 275-gallon IBCs fit 4 per standard truck row, with up to 20 per full truckload. Larger 550-gallon tanks require special handling and may limit truck capacity. Consider your delivery route, unloading equipment, and DOT transportation regulations for hazardous materials. The 275-gallon size offers the best balance of capacity and logistics efficiency.
Pallet Size Compatibility
Understanding pallet compatibility is critical for proper storage, transportation, and racking systems. Here is a complete guide to which IBC sizes fit on which pallet standards.
| Pallet Size | Description | Compatible IBC Sizes | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 40" x 48" | Standard North American pallet (GMA pallet) | 120 gal180 gal275 gal330 gal | Most common pallet size. Fits standard racking and truck dimensions. Compatible with all standard forklifts. |
| 48" x 48" | Square pallet (industrial) | 275 gal330 gal550 gal | Used for larger tanks and heavy-duty industrial applications. May not fit all standard racking systems. |
| 48" x 60" | Oversized pallet | 550 gal | Required for 550-gallon tanks. May not fit standard racking. Verify truck clearance before ordering. |
| Euro Pallet (800x1200mm) | European standard pallet | 275 gal (EU variant)330 gal (EU variant) | Used for international shipping and European market containers. Slightly smaller footprint than GMA pallet. |
Pallet Materials
- Steel Pallets: Most durable, ideal for heavy loads and long-term use. Weight capacity up to 5,000 lbs. Recyclable and reusable. Expected lifespan of 15+ years with proper care.
- Composite Pallets: Blend of materials (plastic/wood/metal). Lighter than steel, good balance of durability and cost. Common on standard 275-gallon IBCs.
- Plastic (HDPE) Pallets: Lightweight, chemical-resistant, easy to clean. Preferred for food-grade and pharmaceutical applications. No splinters or rust.
- Wood Pallets: Least expensive option, but less durable. Not recommended for long-term outdoor storage or heavy liquids. May require ISPM 15 treatment for export.
Stacking Guidelines
- Full tanks: Maximum 2-high stacking. Ensure bottom tank cage is not damaged. Verify stacking test weight on UN marking plate.
- Empty tanks: Can stack up to 4-high when in good condition with proper cage alignment. Secure top tanks against wind if outdoors.
- Racking: Ensure racking system is rated for the total weight. Standard pallet racking works for 275-gallon tanks on 40x48 pallets. Verify beam capacity.
- Ground storage: Use level, paved surfaces. Avoid soft ground that could cause tipping. Keep away from direct sunlight for UV-sensitive contents. Use spill containment for hazardous materials.
Understanding UN/DOT Markings
Every certified IBC tank carries UN (United Nations) and DOT (Department of Transportation) markings that indicate its construction type, approved contents, and testing standards. Understanding these markings is essential for regulatory compliance.
Common IBC UN Marking Codes
| Code | Meaning | Example Use |
|---|---|---|
| 31HA1 | Rigid IBC, HDPE body, steel cage, composite pallet | General chemical and food-grade storage |
| 31HA2 | Rigid IBC, HDPE body, tubular steel frame | Industrial chemicals, solvents |
| 31H1 | Rigid IBC, HDPE body, no outer cage | Food-grade liquids, non-hazardous storage |
| 31A | Rigid IBC, all-steel construction | Corrosive chemicals, high-temperature liquids |
| 21H1 | Flexible IBC (bulk bag), plastic | Dry bulk materials, powders, granules |
| 31HA1/Y | Packing Group II & III, medium to low hazard | Industrial chemicals, solvents |
| 31HA1/Z | Packing Group III only, low hazard | Mild detergents, non-hazardous solutions |
| 31HA1/X | Packing Group I, II & III, high hazard approved | Corrosive chemicals, strong acids |
How to Read an IBC Marking Plate
UN 31HA1/Y/03 24
USA/M-5531
Schutz/1040 kg/525 kg
04/24 (manufactured April 2024)
UN 31HA1
Container type code (Rigid IBC, HDPE, composite pallet)
/Y
Packing group (Y = Groups II & III)
/03 24
Month and year of manufacture (March 2024)
USA/M-5531
Country of manufacture and approval number
1040 kg
Maximum gross weight when filled
525 kg
Stacking test load weight
UN Certification Lifespan
IBC tanks must be recertified or replaced every 5 years from the date of manufacture for hazardous materials transport.
Inspection Interval
Periodic inspections are required every 2.5 years for IBCs used to transport regulated materials.
Non-Hazmat Service Life
For non-hazardous general storage, well-maintained IBC tanks can serve 10 years or more with proper care.
IBC Tank Construction & Materials
Understanding the materials and construction of IBC tanks helps you select the right container for your specific application and ensure longevity.
Inner Bottle (Bladder)
- Material: High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) -- FDA-approved for food contact applications when made from virgin resin
- UV Resistance: Standard white HDPE offers moderate UV protection. Black or opaque bottles provide enhanced UV blocking for light-sensitive contents.
- Temperature Range: -40 F to 140 F (-40 C to 60 C) for standard HDPE. Do not exceed for extended periods.
- Chemical Resistance: Excellent resistance to most acids, bases, alcohols, and aqueous solutions. Not recommended for aromatic solvents or strong oxidizers.
Outer Cage (Frame)
- Material: Galvanized steel tubing (typically 1" to 1.5" diameter) welded into a rigid cage structure.
- Corrosion Protection: Hot-dip galvanized coating provides long-term corrosion resistance in outdoor and humid environments.
- Load-Bearing: Cage supports the HDPE bottle under full liquid load and enables safe stacking of multiple full containers.
- Forklift Access: Built-in forklift pockets in the base pallet allow handling from all four sides (on most models).
Valve Assembly
- Standard Valve: 2" (50mm) butterfly valve with cam-lock or threaded connection. Most common across all IBC sizes.
- Large Valve: 3" (75mm) butterfly valve for higher flow rates. Common on 330-gallon and 550-gallon tanks.
- Ball Valve Option: Available as an upgrade for more precise flow control and positive shut-off.
- Gasket Material: EPDM rubber standard. Viton and PTFE gaskets available for chemical compatibility.
Top Fill Cap & Lid
- Standard Cap: 6" (150mm) screw cap with vented or non-vented options. Provides a secure, leak-proof seal.
- Wide-Mouth Lid: Available in 9" or 12" diameter for easier filling and cleaning access. Common in food-grade applications.
- Tamper-Evident: Many caps include tamper-evident seals or zip-tie holes for security and chain-of-custody tracking.
- Dust Cover: Snap-on dust covers protect the cap and top opening during outdoor storage.
Need Help Choosing the Right Size?
Our team at IBC Santa Ana has decades of experience helping businesses find the perfect IBC tank solution. Contact us for personalized recommendations based on your specific needs. Email us at info@ibcsantaana.com or visit our facility at 1020 S Linwood Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705.