275 Gallon IBC Tote
One of the two standard intermediate bulk container sizes. Typical specifications, dimensions, materials, valve options, and application details for the 275 gallon IBC tote.
Order 275 Gallon IBC Totes
Tell us your quantity and specifications in a free quote request and a partner supplier follows up.
275 Gallon IBC Tote Dimensions & Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity (US Gallons) | 275 gallons |
| Capacity (Liters) | About 1,000 liters |
| Length | About 48 inches (~122 cm) |
| Width | About 40 inches (~102 cm) |
| Overall Height | About 46 inches (~117 cm) |
| Specific Gravity Rating | Varies by model; shown on the marking plate |
| Inner Bottle Material | High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) |
| Cage Frame Material | Galvanized steel |
| Footprint | Roughly 48" x 40" (close to a standard pallet) |
Valve Types & Discharge Options
| Valve Type | Size | Best For | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Butterfly Valve | 2" (most common) | General purpose, high-flow dispensing | Quick open/close, good flow control, easy to clean |
| Ball Valve | Commonly 2" | Chemical handling, precise flow control | Full bore opening, low pressure drop, leak-resistant seal |
| Camlock Fitting | Various | Quick connect/disconnect applications | Fast coupling, compatible with standard hoses |
| Plug Valve | Various | Viscous liquids | Easy disassembly, large passage for thick liquids |
Fill Opening & Lid Options
6-Inch Screw Cap
The standard fill opening on most 275 gallon IBC totes. The 6-inch threaded cap seals with a gasket, and vented caps are available for pressure equalization during dispensing.
Larger Screw Caps
Some totes have a larger fill opening, which allows easier cleaning access and faster filling. A wider opening helps with viscous liquids, internal inspection, and any process that benefits from wider access to the interior.
Open Top / Full Lid
Some 275 gallon IBC totes are available with a fully removable top lid, providing complete access to the interior. This configuration is ideal for solid or semi-solid contents, mixing operations, and applications where the tote needs to be loaded from the top with equipment.
Pallet Base Types
| Pallet Type | Material | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steel Pallet | Galvanized steel | Durable, fire-resistant, long lifespan, repairable | Heavier, can rust without coating, higher cost |
| Composite Pallet | Plastic / wood / steel combination | Lighter, corrosion-resistant, lower cost | Less durable under heavy loads, harder to repair |
| Wooden Pallet | Wood (often heat-treated) | Low cost, widely available, repairable | Absorbs moisture, shorter lifespan, pest risk |
| Plastic Pallet | Molded HDPE | Light, chemical-resistant, easy to clean | Lower load capacity, not repairable |
Materials & Build Quality
The 275 gallon IBC tote is built for durability, chemical resistance, and safe handling of a wide range of liquids. Here is a look at the construction.
HDPE Inner Bottle
The inner container is blow-molded from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), a tough plastic with good resistance to many acids, bases, alcohols, and solvents. Always check compatibility for the specific liquid you plan to store.
HDPE can become brittle with long sun exposure, so totes stored outdoors last longer with a cover. Check the manufacturer's temperature limits for warm or hot liquids.
Galvanized Steel Cage
The steel cage surrounds the HDPE bottle and provides structural support, impact protection, and stackability. It is typically made from galvanized steel tube or wire welded into a grid. The galvanization helps protect against rust.
The cage is fixed to the pallet base and holds the bottle in place during transport and stacking.
Gaskets and Seals
EPDM gaskets are common on lids and valves. For some chemicals, other gasket materials are used for better resistance. The lid gasket and valve gasket are the two primary sealing points and should be inspected regularly for wear.
Stackability & Compatibility
The 275 gallon IBC tote is designed for efficient storage, handling, and interoperability with standard logistics infrastructure.
Stacking
Caged 275 gallon IBC totes are designed to stack, with the pallet base of the upper tote seated on the cage frame of the one below. How many high is safe depends on the tote's rating, condition, contents and whether it is full, so check the marking plate and manufacturer guidance. Take extra care when mixing brands, as cage and pallet designs vary between manufacturers.
Nesting is not possible with IBC totes due to the rigid cage structure.
Forklift and Pallet Jack Access
Most 275 gallon IBC totes have 4-way forklift entry on the pallet base, allowing access from any side. Many pallet bases also work with standard pallet jacks for ground-level handling.
Shipping and Transport
The roughly 48" x 40" footprint fits standard trucks and trailers, and empty totes can often be double-stacked in transit. When totes are full, trucks usually reach their weight limit before they run out of floor space.
Markings and Regulations
Many IBC totes carry a marking plate showing the manufacturer, date of manufacture, and ratings such as the maximum specific gravity. Rules for using IBCs to store or transport regulated materials vary, so check current regulations with your local authorities before using a tote for anything hazardous.
Common Uses for 275 Gallon IBC Totes
Water Storage
Rain harvesting systems, emergency water reserves, irrigation, livestock watering, and portable water supply for remote job sites and events.
Agriculture
Fertilizer storage and mixing, pesticide solutions, herbicide application, liquid feed supplements, and crop spraying equipment supply tanks.
Chemical Storage
Industrial cleaning agents, solvents, coolants, lubricants, antifreeze, and non-hazardous chemical storage in manufacturing facilities.
Food & Beverage
Liquid ingredients such as syrups, oils, vinegar, and juice concentrates. Totes used for food are generally kept in food service.
Construction
On-site water supply for dust control, concrete mixing, equipment washdown, and temporary sanitation facilities.
DIY & Homesteading
Backyard rainwater collection, garden irrigation, livestock water, and other homestead projects.
Who Uses 275 Gallon IBC Totes?
The 275 gallon IBC tote is widely used across industries that handle bulk liquids. Its popularity comes from its balance of capacity, stackability, and compatibility with standard handling equipment.
- Food and beverage manufacturing
- Chemical production and distribution
- Pharmaceutical and cosmetics
- Agriculture and farming operations
- Water treatment and distribution
- Automotive and metalworking
- Cleaning product manufacturers
- Paint and coatings industry
- Oil and gas operations
- Construction and building materials
Looking for 275 Gallon IBC Totes?
Partner suppliers in the ABC IBC network offer new, rebottled, reconditioned and used 275 gallon totes. Pricing is by quote and depends on condition, quantity and location. Send a request and a partner supplier follows up.