New, reconditioned or used IBC — which to choose?
Published on: 04-06-2026
Three IBC variants — comparison
| Variant | Description | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| New | factory bottle and cage, full hygiene, certificate | food, drinking water, pharma, chemicals |
| Reconditioned (rebottled) | new washed bottle in a used cage | technical, price–quality compromise |
| Used (washed) | economical, leak-tested | technical water, rainwater, fertilising |
How to choose an IBC by medium
| Medium | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Drinking water / food | only NEW with food approval (food-grade HDPE) |
| Chemicals / ADR | new with valid UN/ADR certificate and correct thread |
| Rainwater / garden | used — economical and sufficient |
| Technical uses | reconditioned or used |
UN/ADR certification and food contact
Transporting and storing hazardous materials requires an IBC with a UN/ADR certificate (cage marking, validity, bottle code). For food and drinking-water contact choose only a new IBC with a food-grade HDPE bottle. Used units suit technical and rainwater.
Related products
See IBC containers, rainwater tanks and drums and jerrycans. Manufacturer Paleteo, shipped from Poland.
FAQ
Is a used IBC suitable for drinking water? No — for drinking water and food only a new one with food approval; used for technical and rainwater.
What is a reconditioned IBC? A new washed bottle set in a used, tested cage — cheaper than new, more hygienic than used.
Which IBC for chemicals? A new one with a valid UN/ADR certificate and chemical resistance matched to the medium.
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