Sustainable Bulk Container Recycling & Reconditioning

Bulk containers such as IBC totes and drums are commonly used in many industries, but what happens when it's time to dispose of them? Recycling and reconditioning bulk containers is a practical and common solution for used packaging in agricultural and industrial settings. Understanding how container reconditioning works, what regulations apply, and how businesses can participate offers valuable insight into more efficient bulk packaging disposal. Manage your resources better by exploring container reuse options, leading to improved efficiency and long-term cost savings.

The Cary Company is committed to providing free drum and tote recycling and reconditioning services not only for the benefit of our customers, but also for our environment. Totes do not need to be purchased from The Cary Company to qualify for our recycling program.

IBC totes are especially important in bulk container recycling due to their widespread use and high reusability. IBC totes and drums are designed for durability, and with proper cleaning and inspection, they can be safely reused for a variety of applications. The process of restoring containers for reuse is called reconditioning. This sustainable bulk container recycling process not only helps reduce the volume of waste generated but also extends the functional life of materials that would otherwise be discarded.

Our reconditioning services are designed to meet key industry standards, including those set by OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act), and California’s environmental regulations. We ensure that all handling, cleaning, and disposal practices are safe for workers and environmentally responsible by adhering to these guidelines.

Proper container recycling prevents hazardous waste from entering landfills and reduces the risk of chemical exposure during handling. Our processes are built around safety and sustainability, helping customers stay compliant while protecting their teams and the environment.

We offer comprehensive recycling and reconditioning services for bulk containers, including plastic IBC totes, plastic drums, and steel drums.

Bulk containers must be approved by The Cary Company before they can be dropped off or picked up.

To ensure a smooth and compliant recycling process, we’ve outlined our requirements in two stages: the approval requirements and the collection requirements.

1. Approval Requirements:

• Completed drum or IBC tote form

• Photos of the containers

• Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for the product that was previously stored in the containers

• The number of containers ready for pickup or shipment

• The frequency at which you generate empty drums or totes, whether weekly or monthly

To initiate the process, please complete either the drum disposal form or tote disposal form, and email photos of the containers to recon@thecarycompany.com.

2. Collection Requirements

• Containers must be “drip dry” and empty in accordance with 20 CFR 261.7 as well as all local and state regulations

• All labels must be in place and legible

• Quantities must be in full truckload quantities or close (some exceptions)

• Material stickers must remain on the containers

To comply with Environmental Protection Agency regulations (40 CFR 261.7), all containers must be completely emptied and drip dry before we can accept them. Additionally, containers must be free of damage, with no cracks, leaks, or structural issues such as bent or broken cages, pallets, or tanks. Each unit must be complete, with valves, fill port screw caps, and dust caps intact.

Once all required documentation and images are submitted, we will notify you of approval and coordinate a collection or drop-off time. Our service helps you avoid disposal costs while contributing positively to the environment by enabling containers to be cleaned and reused.

Improper disposal of agrichemical containers can pose serious environmental risks, including soil contamination, water pollution, and harm to wildlife.

Recycling and reconditioning totes and drums offers businesses a safer alternative, allowing containers to be reused instead of ending up in landfills.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), containers and packaging made up 82.2 million tons of municipal solid waste in 2018, with 53.9% of that being recycled and only 20.9% landfilled. Recycling and reuse activities in the U.S. also support 681,000 jobs, generate $37.8 billion in wages, and contribute $5.5 billion in tax revenues annually.

By choosing sustainable recycling, you’re not only complying with regulations but also contributing to a cleaner, safer agricultural ecosystem.

The Cary Company is committed to working with businesses, companies, and facilities to promote responsible container management. Our goal is to make sustainable container disposal a standard practice across industries. Our services are free with on-time pickups and no freight charges.

This opportunity is ideal for farmers, agrichemical facilities, industrial operations, and more. By using our recycling program, you can help reduce waste, protect the environment, and support a circular economy. In addition to reconditioning services, we offer reconditioned totes and reconditioned drums for purchase. Choosing reconditioned products extends the life of containers and reduces the need for new manufacturing, another way to support sustainability and the circular economy.

Interested in using our used tote and drum disposal service? Simply fill out our return form with details about the container, such as quantity and previous contents. If the donated items do not meet the requirements above upon inspection, they will be sent back at the donor’s expense. For questions or assistance, contact our team of experts at 630.629.6600 or sales@thecarycompany.com. We’re here to help you make sustainable choices that benefit your business and the planet.