Size Guide · ReferenceIBC sizes,
IBC sizes,
weights and fit.
Capacities, footprints, filled weights, trailer planning and unit conversions for the two most common IBC tote sizes, in one place.
275 vs. 330 gallon, side by side.
| Spec | 275 gallon | 330 gallon |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 275 US gal (about 1,041 L) | 330 US gal (about 1,249 L) |
| Footprint | 40" × 48" | 40" × 48" |
| Typical height | About 46" | About 53" |
| Top opening | Screw lid, size varies by maker | Screw lid, size varies by maker |
| Outlet | Usually 2" | Usually 2" |
Dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer. Measure your space with some clearance for the valve and for lifting.
What a full tote weighs.
| Product (approximate) | lb per US gal | 275 gal of product | 330 gal of product |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water | 8.34 | About 2,290 lb | About 2,750 lb |
| Diesel | About 7.1 | About 1,950 lb | About 2,340 lb |
| Vegetable oil | About 7.7 | About 2,120 lb | About 2,540 lb |
Product weight only; add the weight of the empty tote. For other products, use the density on the safety data sheet.
Stacking and placement.
- Only stack within the limits marked on the tote, and only with sound cages.
- Filled totes need a level, firm base rated for the full weight.
- Leave room in front of the valve to connect a hose and catch drips.
- Keep forklift access to the pallet openings.
Outdoors.
- Sunlight degrades HDPE over time; an opaque cover slows it down.
- Light also lets algae grow in stored water — cover the bottle.
- Water freezes at 32 °F; drain or protect the valve in cold weather.
Planning a truckload.
- A 53' trailer has floor space for about 26 standard 40" × 48" pallets.
- Empty totes are light but bulky, so a trailer usually fills by space first; sound empties are often stacked two high.
- Filled totes are heavy, so a load usually reaches its weight limit before the floor is full.
- A liftgate has its own weight limit; check it against the weight of a filled tote.
The partner supplier who quotes your request plans the load. How pickup and delivery work →
Unit conversions.
| From | To | Multiply by |
|---|---|---|
| US gallons | Liters | 3.785 |
| Liters | US gallons | 0.2642 |
| US gallons | Cubic feet | 0.1337 |
| Cubic meters | US gallons | 264.2 |
| Inches | Centimeters | 2.54 |
Size guide
Size and spec questions
Which is more common, 275 or 330?
Both are widely used. They share the same 40" × 48" footprint; the 330 is taller and holds about 20% more.
Can I change the valve on a tote?
Usually, yes, but valve threads differ between bottle makers. Send photos and measurements with your request so a partner supplier can match the part.
Does a used tote keep its UN rating?
Not automatically. UN markings and their validity for hazardous materials are governed by specific rules on testing and reconditioning. Check current regulations before using any tote for regulated materials.
How much will a full tote weigh?
Multiply the gallons by the product’s weight per gallon and add the empty tote. For water, that is about 8.34 lb per gallon.