Industry-Leading IBC Tank Solutions
Trusted by businesses across New England for over 20 years. We provide specialized IBC tank solutions tailored to the unique requirements of your industry, ensuring compliance, safety, and efficiency.
Specialized Solutions for Your Industry
At Boston IBC Tanks, we understand that different industries have unique requirements for liquid storage and transportation. From FDA-compliant food-grade containers to UN-certified hazmat tanks, we provide industry-specific solutions backed by decades of expertise and an unwavering commitment to quality and safety.
Industries We Serve
Food & Beverage
The food and beverage industry requires the highest standards of hygiene and safety. Our FDA-compliant, food-grade IBC tanks ensure your products remain uncontaminated and safe for consumption throughout storage and transport.
Specific Applications:
- Fruit juices and concentrates
- Vegetable oils (olive, canola, sunflower)
- Liquid sweeteners (corn syrup, honey, molasses)
- Wine and spirits (bulk storage)
- Dairy products (milk, cream, whey)
- Flavorings and food colorings
- Sauces and condiments
- Water and beverage bases
Requirements & Standards:
- FDA 21 CFR 177.1520 compliant materials
- HDPE food-grade certification
- Easy-clean smooth interior surfaces
- Tamper-evident seals and caps
- Temperature resistance (-40°F to 140°F)
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade A: For direct food contact and premium applications
Grade B: For food processing and secondary ingredients
Chemical Processing
Chemical manufacturers and processors need robust, UN-certified containers that can safely handle corrosive, flammable, and hazardous materials. Our tanks meet all DOT and UN regulations for hazmat transport.
Specific Applications:
- Industrial solvents (acetone, ethanol, toluene)
- Acids (sulfuric, hydrochloric, acetic)
- Bases and alkaline solutions (sodium hydroxide, ammonia)
- Surfactants and detergents
- Glycols and antifreeze
- Polymer resins and precursors
- Specialty chemical formulations
- Process intermediates
Requirements & Standards:
- UN/DOT certified for hazmat transport
- Chemical compatibility verification
- Pressure relief valves for volatile materials
- Static grounding capabilities
- Hazard labeling and documentation
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade A: UN-rated for hazmat, pristine condition
Grade B: For non-hazardous chemicals and industrial use
Pharmaceutical
Pharmaceutical manufacturing demands absolute purity and compliance with stringent regulatory standards. Our pharmaceutical-grade IBC tanks maintain product integrity and meet cGMP requirements.
Specific Applications:
- Active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)
- Excipients and binding agents
- Sterile water and purified water (WFI)
- Pharmaceutical-grade solvents
- Vaccine components and serums
- Biotechnology solutions
- Cleaning validation solutions
- Buffer solutions
Requirements & Standards:
- USP Class VI materials
- cGMP compliant manufacturing
- Batch traceability documentation
- Cleanroom-compatible design
- Extractables and leachables testing
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade A Only: Pharmaceutical applications require virgin materials and pristine condition
Agriculture
Modern agriculture relies on efficient storage and handling of fertilizers, pesticides, and liquid feeds. Our agricultural IBC tanks are built to withstand outdoor conditions and demanding farm environments.
Specific Applications:
- Liquid fertilizers (nitrogen solutions, UAN)
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Liquid animal feeds and supplements
- Irrigation water storage
- Plant growth regulators
- Soil conditioners and amendments
- Micronutrient solutions
- Agricultural chemicals and additives
Requirements & Standards:
- UV-resistant materials for outdoor storage
- EPA compliance for pesticide containers
- Durable steel cage construction
- Easy dispensing valves for field use
- Chemical compatibility with ag products
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade A or B: Depending on material sensitivity and regulatory requirements
Grade C: Suitable for water storage and non-sensitive applications
Cosmetics & Personal Care
The cosmetics industry requires containers that preserve product quality and meet consumer safety standards. Our cosmetic-grade tanks ensure your formulations remain stable and uncontaminated.
Specific Applications:
- Shampoos and conditioners
- Body washes and liquid soaps
- Lotions and moisturizers
- Essential oils and fragrances
- Hair care products
- Cosmetic bases and emulsions
- Natural and organic formulations
- Surfactants and cleansing agents
Requirements & Standards:
- Cosmetic-grade HDPE materials
- FDA compliance for skin contact products
- Preservative-compatible containers
- Light-blocking opaque bottles for sensitive formulas
- Odor-free materials
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade A: For premium cosmetics and direct skin contact
Grade B: For cosmetic ingredients and bases
Automotive
Automotive manufacturing and maintenance operations require reliable storage for lubricants, coolants, and other automotive fluids. Our tanks stand up to the rigorous demands of the automotive industry.
Specific Applications:
- Motor oils and lubricants
- Coolants and antifreeze
- Brake fluids and hydraulic oils
- Windshield washer fluid
- Transmission fluids
- Degreasers and cleaning solutions
- AdBlue/DEF (diesel exhaust fluid)
- Car wash chemicals
Requirements & Standards:
- Oil and petroleum product compatibility
- Spill containment features
- Forklift-friendly pallet design
- High-flow dispensing valves
- Chemical resistance to automotive fluids
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade A or B: For new oils and premium fluids
Grade C: For used oil collection and industrial fluids
Construction
Construction sites need durable, portable solutions for water storage, concrete additives, and other building materials. Our rugged IBC tanks are built for demanding job site conditions.
Specific Applications:
- Potable water storage for remote sites
- Concrete additives and plasticizers
- Dust control and suppression water
- Adhesives and bonding agents
- Waterproofing compounds
- Sealants and caulking materials
- Equipment wash water
- De-icing solutions
Requirements & Standards:
- Reinforced steel cage for rough handling
- Weather-resistant construction
- Easy transport and positioning
- Large fill opening for quick loading
- NSF 61 certification for potable water
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade B or C: Cost-effective and durable for construction applications
Water Treatment
Water treatment facilities require specialized containers for chemicals used in purification processes. Our tanks ensure safe storage and precise dosing of treatment chemicals.
Specific Applications:
- Sodium hypochlorite (bleach) solutions
- Coagulants and flocculants
- pH adjustment chemicals
- Chlorine solutions
- Ozone treatment systems
- Activated carbon slurries
- Reverse osmosis chemicals
- Wastewater treatment additives
Requirements & Standards:
- NSF/ANSI 61 drinking water system components
- Corrosion-resistant materials
- Secondary containment compatibility
- Pressure-rated for chemical feed systems
- UV protection for outdoor installations
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade A: For potable water treatment chemicals
Grade B: For wastewater and industrial treatment
Paints & Coatings
Paint manufacturers and distributors need containers that maintain product consistency and prevent contamination. Our tanks are compatible with a wide range of paint formulations and solvents.
Specific Applications:
- Water-based latex paints
- Oil-based enamels
- Industrial coatings
- Paint resins and binders
- Pigment dispersions
- Paint thinners and solvents
- Powder coating solutions
- Specialty finishes
Requirements & Standards:
- Solvent-resistant HDPE construction
- Static dissipation for flammable materials
- VOC-compliant storage
- Easy mixing and agitation access
- Color-coded or labeled for product identification
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade A or B: For finished paints and premium coatings
Grade C: For solvents and waste paint collection
Waste Management & Recycling
Waste management operations demand durable, leak-proof containers for collecting and transporting various waste streams. Our tanks provide reliable containment for demanding waste applications.
Specific Applications:
- Used oil and fluids collection
- Industrial wastewater
- Liquid waste transport
- Recycling operation liquids
- Grease trap waste
- Hazardous waste collection
- Leachate management
- Wash water recovery
Requirements & Standards:
- Heavy-duty construction for rough handling
- DOT compliance for waste transport
- Leak-proof design and testing
- Easy decontamination surfaces
- Proper hazard labeling capabilities
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade B or C: Cost-effective solutions for waste applications
Research & Development
R&D facilities need flexible, reliable storage for experimental batches and testing materials. Our tanks provide the quality and documentation required for research applications.
Specific Applications:
- Prototype formulations
- Laboratory reagents
- Pilot plant production
- Sample storage and transport
- Experimental batches
- Quality control standards
- Testing materials
- Process development fluids
Requirements & Standards:
- Batch traceability and documentation
- Clean, contamination-free interior
- Multiple tank grades for different tests
- Easy labeling for sample identification
- Chemical compatibility verification
Recommended Tank Grades:
Grade A or B: Depending on experiment requirements and material sensitivity
Success Stories from the Field
Real-world examples of how our IBC tanks have helped businesses across New England solve their liquid storage and transportation challenges.
Regional Juice Manufacturer
Food & BeverageChallenge:
A Massachusetts juice manufacturer needed FDA-compliant containers for transporting organic apple juice concentrate from orchards to their bottling facility. They required tanks that could maintain product integrity during transport and storage.
Solution:
We provided 50 Grade A food-grade IBC tanks with tamper-evident caps and complete FDA compliance documentation. Each tank was pressure-tested and certified clean before delivery.
Results:
- Zero contamination incidents over 2 years
- 30% reduction in product loss compared to previous containers
- Passed all FDA inspections with flying colors
- Client expanded order to 100 tanks in year two
Chemical Distribution Company
Chemical ProcessingChallenge:
A chemical distributor in Connecticut needed UN-certified containers for transporting corrosive chemicals to industrial clients. They required tanks that met DOT regulations and could handle repeated use cycles.
Solution:
We supplied 75 Grade A UN-rated IBC tanks with full DOT compliance certification, including pressure relief valves and proper hazmat labeling. We also provided training on safe handling procedures.
Results:
- 100% compliance with DOT regulations
- Reduced insurance costs due to improved safety profile
- Extended tank lifespan with proper maintenance program
- Zero spills or accidents in transit
Large-Scale Dairy Farm
AgricultureChallenge:
A Vermont dairy farm needed reliable storage for liquid fertilizer and livestock nutritional supplements. They required UV-resistant tanks that could withstand outdoor conditions year-round.
Solution:
We provided 30 Grade B IBC tanks with UV-stabilized HDPE construction and easy-access dispensing valves. Tanks were configured for both indoor and outdoor use with appropriate weatherproofing.
Results:
- Tanks performed flawlessly through harsh New England winters
- 50% reduction in fertilizer waste from improved storage
- Easier product handling reduced labor time by 25%
- Farm achieved organic certification with our compliant containers
Municipal Water Treatment Facility
Water TreatmentChallenge:
A Rhode Island water treatment plant needed NSF-certified containers for sodium hypochlorite storage as part of their water purification system. Tanks needed to integrate with automated chemical feed systems.
Solution:
We supplied 20 Grade A NSF/ANSI 61 certified IBC tanks with corrosion-resistant valves and fittings compatible with their chemical feed pumps. Included full documentation for regulatory compliance.
Results:
- Seamless integration with existing infrastructure
- Met all EPA and state drinking water standards
- Reduced chemical costs through better inventory management
- System running reliably for 3+ years with minimal maintenance
Cosmetics Manufacturing Startup
Cosmetics & Personal CareChallenge:
A new organic cosmetics company in Massachusetts needed cost-effective storage for their natural shampoo and body wash base materials while maintaining high quality standards.
Solution:
We provided a mix of Grade A and B cosmetic-grade tanks tailored to their specific formulations. Started with 15 tanks and implemented a rental program to manage their growing inventory needs.
Results:
- Successfully launched product line with zero contamination issues
- Flexible rental program supported business growth
- Maintained product stability and shelf life
- Company now orders 50+ tanks annually as they expand
Major Construction Project
ConstructionChallenge:
A large commercial construction project in Boston needed temporary water storage for a remote site without municipal connections. Required potable water for 200+ workers over 18 months.
Solution:
We supplied 40 Grade B IBC tanks with NSF 61 certification for potable water, along with a rotation and cleaning service to maintain water quality throughout the project.
Results:
- Reliable water supply throughout entire construction period
- Passed all health department inspections
- Cost savings of 60% compared to bottled water delivery
- Client reused system on two subsequent projects
Industry-Specific Certifications & Compliance
Our IBC tanks meet or exceed the most stringent industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Food & Beverage Standards
- FDA 21 CFR 177.1520: Food contact materials approval
- NSF/ANSI 51: Food equipment materials certification
- EU 10/2011: European food contact plastics
- FSSC 22000: Food safety system certification
- Kosher & Halal: Available upon request
Chemical & Hazmat Compliance
- UN/DOT Certification: 31A/Y or 31H/Y ratings
- DOT 49 CFR: Hazardous materials regulations
- IMDG Code: International maritime dangerous goods
- ADR/RID: European road/rail transport regulations
- Packing Group Ratings: I, II, and III available
Pharmaceutical Standards
- USP Class VI: Biological reactivity testing
- cGMP Compliance: Current Good Manufacturing Practice
- ISO 15378: Primary packaging materials for medicinal products
- FDA Drug Master File: Material documentation
- EP (European Pharmacopoeia): Compliance available
Environmental & Water Standards
- NSF/ANSI 61: Drinking water system components
- NSF/ANSI 372: Lead content verification
- EPA Standards: Water treatment chemical storage
- AWWA Standards: American Water Works Association
- WRAS Approval: Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (UK)
Quality & Manufacturing
- ISO 9001:2015: Quality management systems
- ISO 14001: Environmental management
- OHSAS 18001: Occupational health and safety
- GMP Certified: Good Manufacturing Practice
- AIB Certification: Food safety audits
Regional & Industry Specific
- USDA Compliance: Agricultural applications
- EPA FIFRA: Pesticide container standards
- OSHA Requirements: Workplace safety standards
- State Regulations: MA, CT, RI, VT, NH, ME compliance
- Local Permits: Assistance with permitting process
Documentation & Support: We provide complete certification documentation, material safety data sheets (SDS), and compliance letters for all our tanks. Our team can assist with regulatory submissions and help ensure your operations meet all applicable standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which tank grade is right for my industry?
Tank grade selection depends on your specific application and regulatory requirements. Grade A tanks are required for pharmaceutical applications, recommended for direct food contact, and necessary for UN-rated hazmat transport. Grade B works well for most industrial, cosmetic, and food processing applications. Grade C is suitable for non-sensitive materials, water storage, and waste collection. Our team provides free consultation to ensure you get the right grade for your needs.
Are your tanks certified for hazardous materials?
Yes, our Grade A tanks carry UN/DOT certification for hazardous materials transport. They are rated as 31A/Y or 31H/Y depending on the specific model and can handle Packing Groups I, II, and III materials. Each UN-rated tank comes with proper documentation, hazard labeling, and compliance certificates. We ensure all tanks meet current DOT 49 CFR and IMDG Code requirements.
Can IBC tanks be used for food-grade applications?
Absolutely. Our food-grade IBC tanks are manufactured from FDA 21 CFR 177.1520 compliant HDPE materials and meet NSF/ANSI 51 standards for food equipment. They feature smooth interior surfaces for easy cleaning, tamper-evident seals, and complete traceability documentation. We provide certification letters and can assist with food safety audits and inspections.
What maintenance is required for IBC tanks?
Maintenance requirements vary by application. Food-grade and pharmaceutical tanks require thorough cleaning between uses with validated cleaning procedures. Chemical tanks need periodic inspection of valves, gaskets, and pressure relief devices. We recommend annual inspection of the steel cage for damage or corrosion. We offer professional cleaning, testing, and refurbishment services to extend tank life and maintain compliance.
How long do IBC tanks last?
With proper care and maintenance, IBC tanks can last 10-15 years or longer. Lifespan depends on the stored materials, frequency of use, and storage conditions. UV exposure, extreme temperatures, and aggressive chemicals can reduce lifespan. Grade A tanks typically last longer due to their pristine initial condition. We provide inspection services to assess tank condition and remaining service life.
Do you provide industry-specific documentation?
Yes, we provide comprehensive documentation tailored to your industry requirements including: FDA compliance letters, UN/DOT certificates, material safety data sheets, food contact declarations, USP Class VI test reports, NSF certifications, batch traceability records, and material composition certificates. We can also assist with regulatory submissions and audit support.
Can tanks be cleaned and reused for different products?
Yes, but with important considerations. Tanks can be professionally cleaned and reconditioned for reuse, but you must ensure chemical compatibility and prevent cross-contamination. Food-grade applications require validated cleaning procedures. Some industries prohibit reuse (e.g., pharmaceuticals often require single-use containers). We offer professional cleaning services and can advise on safe reuse practices for your specific application.
What sizes and capacities are available?
Standard IBC tanks hold 275 gallons (1,041 liters) and measure 48" x 40" x 46". We also offer 330-gallon (1,250-liter) models and smaller 180-gallon (680-liter) units. All tanks fit on standard pallets for easy handling with forklifts and pallet jacks. Custom configurations are available for special applications. Contact us to discuss your specific capacity and dimensional requirements.
Do you offer delivery and setup services?
Yes, we provide delivery throughout New England including Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Our team can deliver tanks to your facility, provide on-site training for proper handling, and assist with initial setup. We offer flexible delivery scheduling to minimize disruption to your operations. Emergency and rush delivery options are available.
What happens to tanks at end of life?
We're committed to sustainability and offer comprehensive recycling services. Old IBC tanks can be returned to us for proper recycling or refurbishment. The HDPE plastic is recyclable and can be processed into new products. Steel cages are scrapped and recycled. We handle all aspects of end-of-life tank disposal in accordance with EPA regulations and can provide waste tracking documentation for your records.
Can you help with regulatory compliance?
Absolutely. Our team has extensive experience with industry regulations and can help ensure your tank selection and usage meets all applicable standards. We stay current with FDA, EPA, DOT, OSHA, and state regulations. We provide guidance on proper labeling, storage requirements, handling procedures, and documentation. We can also connect you with compliance consultants for complex regulatory situations.
Do you offer rental or lease options?
Yes, we offer flexible rental and lease programs for businesses with temporary needs or those wanting to test IBC tanks before committing to purchase. Rental terms range from short-term (weeks) to long-term (years). This is ideal for seasonal operations, special projects, or startups managing cash flow. Rental tanks can often be purchased later with rental payments applied toward the purchase price.
Why Choose Boston IBC Tanks?
Industry Expertise
Over 20 years of experience serving diverse industries across New England. We understand the unique requirements and challenges of your sector and provide expert guidance on tank selection, compliance, and best practices.
Quality Assurance
Every tank undergoes rigorous inspection and testing before delivery. We verify certifications, test for leaks, inspect structural integrity, and ensure all components meet specifications. Quality is never compromised.
Regulatory Compliance
We stay current with all relevant regulations and provide complete documentation to support your compliance efforts. Our tanks meet FDA, EPA, DOT, OSHA, and industry-specific standards.
Local Service
Based in Boston, we serve all of New England with fast delivery and responsive customer service. Our local presence means we understand regional requirements and can respond quickly to your needs.
Comprehensive Support
From initial consultation through ongoing maintenance, we provide complete support. Our services include tank selection guidance, compliance assistance, cleaning and refurbishment, training, and recycling.
Sustainability Focus
We're committed to environmental responsibility through tank recycling programs, refurbishment services, and promoting circular economy practices. Proper tank maintenance and reuse reduces waste and environmental impact.
IBC Tanks by the Numbers
Key statistics about IBC tank usage across industries.
The intermediate bulk container market continues to grow as industries seek efficient bulk liquid handling solutions.
IBC usage is growing faster than traditional drum packaging as more industries recognize their efficiency benefits.
IBC tanks are highly recyclable, with HDPE bottles, steel cages, and wood pallets all recoverable for reuse or recycling.
Well-maintained IBC tanks can be cleaned, reconditioned, and reused 5-10 times before end-of-life recycling.
Quick Industry Reference Guide
Compare tank requirements across different industries at a glance.
| Industry | Typical Grade | Key Certifications | Common Applications | Special Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Food & Beverage | New / Food-Grade | FDA, NSF, Kosher | Syrups, oils, beverages | Traceability, sanitary design |
| Pharmaceutical | New Only | FDA, USP, cGMP | APIs, excipients, water | Validation documentation |
| Chemical | Reconditioned OK | UN/DOT, EPA | Acids, bases, solvents | Compatibility verification |
| Agriculture | Used / Reconditioned | EPA, State Ag | Fertilizers, pesticides | Triple-rinse compliance |
| Cosmetics | New / Food-Grade | FDA, EU Cosmetics | Bases, fragrances | Fragrance-free previous use |
| Automotive | Reconditioned | EPA, State Regs | Oils, coolants, cleaners | Used oil containment |
| Construction | Used OK | DOT (if transporting) | Water, admixtures | Mobility, durability |
| Water Treatment | New / Reconditioned | NSF 61, EPA | Chemicals, water | Chlorine compatibility |
What Our Industry Customers Say
"We've been sourcing our food-grade IBCs from Boston IBC Tanks for 5 years. Their understanding of FDA requirements and ability to provide proper documentation has made our compliance audits seamless. They're more than a supplier - they're a partner in our quality program."
"In the chemical distribution business, we need tanks that are properly certified and compatible with our products. Boston IBC Tanks takes the time to understand what we're storing and recommends the right tank for each application. That expertise is invaluable."
"Our research facility requires strict chain-of-custody and lot tracking for all containers. They provide the documentation we need and have never let us down on quality. Highly recommend for any pharmaceutical or biotech application."
"As a farm operation, we go through a lot of IBCs for fertilizer and water. Boston IBC Tanks offers great pricing on reconditioned tanks that work perfectly for our needs. The delivery to our rural location is always reliable."
Emerging Industry Applications
New and growing uses for IBC tanks across innovative sectors.
Cannabis & Hemp Industry
The rapidly growing cannabis and hemp extraction industry uses IBC tanks for storing extraction solvents (ethanol), crude oil, distillate, and finished products. We provide tanks that meet the emerging regulatory requirements in this space.
- Solvent-compatible materials
- State compliance documentation
- Food-grade for consumable products
Craft Brewing & Distilling
Small-batch breweries and craft distilleries are discovering IBCs for ingredient storage, fermentation overflow, and finished product holding. Cost-effective alternative to stainless tanks for many applications.
- Food-grade certification
- Easy cleaning for batch changes
- Portable between production areas
Alternative Energy
Biodiesel producers, hydrogen fuel developers, and battery recyclers use IBC tanks for feedstock storage, process intermediates, and finished products. Growing demand for sustainable energy solutions.
- Chemical resistant options
- Outdoor durability
- Volume flexibility
Urban Agriculture
Hydroponic farms, aquaponic systems, and vertical growing operations use IBC tanks for nutrient solutions, water reservoirs, and fish tanks. Growing trend in sustainable food production.
- Light-blocking options available
- Food-safe for fish/produce
- Easy to modify and connect
E-Waste Recycling
Electronics recyclers use IBCs for collecting and storing leachate, cleaning solutions, and recovered metals in solution. Proper containment is critical for environmental compliance.
- Secondary containment available
- Chemical resistance
- EPA compliance support
Emergency Preparedness
Municipalities, hospitals, and emergency services use IBC tanks for emergency water storage, sanitization supplies, and disaster response. Critical infrastructure for community resilience.
- Long-term water storage rated
- Potable water certification
- UV-resistant for outdoor staging
Ready to Find the Perfect IBC Tank Solution for Your Industry?
Our team of experts is ready to help you select the right tanks for your specific application. Whether you need food-grade containers, UN-certified hazmat tanks, or specialized industrial solutions, we have the expertise and inventory to meet your needs.