The global reconditioned IBC market is estimated to reach a valuation of USD 5,295.3 million in 2024. The industry is forecast to reach a value of USD 8,724.8 million by 2034. Sales are projected to rise at a CAGR of 5.1% over the forecast period. The revenue generated by reconditioned IBC sales in 2023 was USD 4,971.8 million. The industry is anticipated to exhibit a Y-o-Y growth of 6.1% in 2024.
Composite IBCs hold a prominent share in the reconditioned IBC sector in terms of volume. It is poised to dominate the market with more than 80% of the market share, expanding at 4.2% CAGR through the forecast period. Composite reconditioned IBCs are durable, and reconditioning increases its lifecycle minimizing the overall costs.
The ability of composite IBCs to reuse the metal cage and replace the inner container, reducing material costs and wastage, boosts its preference in industries.
Standard IBCs with a capacity of 1,040 liters (275 US gal) are reconditioned the most and are consequently anticipated to generate revenue accounting for USD 3.5 billion by the end of 2034. The standard capacity strives for a good balance between ease of handling and volume.
They are compatible with existing logistics and storage systems, which simplifies the transportation, storage, and handling of products. ease of handling and volume. They are compatible with existing logistics and storage systems which simplifies the transportation, storage, and handling of products.
The industrial chemical industry is a major consumer of reconditioned IBC, capturing over 25% share in 2024, and it is set to expand by 1.7 times its current market value by 2034. Companies dealing with industrial chemicals have to be mindful of different types of cost considerations since they deal in large volumes.
IBCs are compatible with harsh chemicals and industrial conditions. They also comply with the regulatory standards for shipping hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals. The lower price of reconditioned IBCs has, therefore, garnered significant demand from industrial chemical manufacturers.
The reconditioned IBC industry is set to experience upward growth during the forecast period. It is projected to create an incremental opportunity of USD 3.7 billion and is predicted to rise 1.6 times the current market value through 2034.
The growing demand for eco-friendly and cost-effective packaging solutions across multiple end-use industries, along with an increasing emphasis on the reduction of non-recyclable packaging waste and an increase in open trade policies, are some of the key factors driving the growth of the reconditioned IBC market.
IBCs have consistently been a popular option amongst several industries for the storage and transportation of large quantities of both hazardous and non-hazardous products. However, environmental concerns arising out of the disposal of these bulk containers prompted companies to look for alternative ways of reusing these containers and reducing packaging waste. Consequently, this paved the way for the growing demand for reconditioned IBCs.
Global Reconditioned IBC Industry Assessment
| Attributes | Key Insights |
|---|---|
| Historical Reconditioned IBC Industry Size (2023) | USD 4,971.8 million |
| Estimated Global Reconditioned IBC Market Size (2024E) | USD 5,295.3 million |
| Projected Global Reconditioned IBC Market Value (2034F) | USD 8,724.8 million |
| Value-based CAGR (2024 to 2034) | 5.1% |
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Growing Demand for Reconditioned IBC Owing to Cost Savings and Environmental Benefits
The reconditioned IBC market is being propelled by increasing demand from various end-user industries, including industrial chemicals, petroleum & lubricants, construction, as well as the paint industry, among others.
These industries seek cost-effective storage solutions that can handle large quantities of goods while simultaneously safeguarding them throughout the transportation and logistical processes.
IBCs are reusable which helps in endorsing the sustainability concerns associated with single-use packaging. Multiple utilization of reconditioned IBC in transportation and storage reduces the amount of waste generated throughout the supply chain.
Businesses are increasingly inclining towards the rental IBC services to transition from traditional packaging to accepting the circular economy. Reconditioned IBCs cost significantly less than their new counterparts. Recent estimates suggest that refurbished totes can cost up to 50% less than new totes, depending on the material and capacity.
Stringent regulations about testing and mandatory certification, such as the UN DOT Recertification testing, further assure product quality, thereby driving consumer confidence and, consequently, boosting market demand.
Customization of Reconditioned IBCs is an Escalating Trend
The demand for customized packaging has skyrocketed in the packaging industry, and the reconditioned IBC market is no exception. The market is showcasing the trend of customization in which producers modify the products to satisfy specific client requirements.
These developments are on the backdrop of value creation, such as long-term economic cost, increased storage capacity, and long shelf-life, which allows large-scale industrial customers to incorporate the significant long-term cost benefits.
Most manufacturers find standard reconditioned IBCs to be sufficient. However, in several instances, standard reconditioned IBCs do not meet the requirements of a specific application, and consequently, a custom reconditioned IBC must be fabricated.
These custom reconditioned IBCs can be configured in many different ways, such as capacity, dimensions, materials, valves, pallets and others to meet the customer’s specification.
Several key players in the market have been jumping on this trend and providing varying customization services. For instance, Grief Inc. provides customizable valve options, openings with different types of ventilation, as well as varying pallet options made from wood, plastic or steel.
Integration of IOT and Sensors with IBC
Implementation of IoT and sensors with IBC for real-time tracking in the supply chain is creating traction in the market. These sensors use GPS and RFID that allow the business access to complete information and monitor the movement of IBC.
Businesses can track the routes with real-time tracking technology, which helps to mitigate the concerns over the transportation maintaining the safety of the material. The integration sensor with IBC can provide real-time information on the packaged items by monitoring the temperature, pressure, humidity, and other attributes of the contents.
The data accumulated by IoT devices and detectors in IBCs can be transferred to a centralized platform or cloud-based system, where it can be examined and used to optimize operational procedures.
The data-driven practice allows enterprises to make knowledgeable decisions about inventory management, demand forecasting, and supply chain optimization. Companies can effectively design their operations, minimize downtime, and lower the chance of product damage or loss by having correct and timely knowledge of the location and condition of IBCs and their contents.
Consumer Skepticism Related to Quality May Restrict Reconditioned IBC Market Growth
Used IBCs or totes undergo thorough cleaning and inspection before they can be approved for resale and sold as reconditioned IBCs. Additionally, these reconditioning procedures have to follow a strict code of conduct imposed by the Reusable Industrial Packaging Association (RIPA).
Despite such thorough checks as well as economic and environmental benefits, a looming consumer psychology of risk aversion presents a significant challenge for the market.
This hesitant psychology is further amplified by the fragmented nature of the reconditioning industry, where each company has its own SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) while running quality checks, and the absence of standardized processes, which provokes uncertainty around consistency in quality.
The global reconditioned IBC industry recorded a CAGR of 3.2% during the historical period between 2019 and 2023. The growth of the reconditioned IBC industry was positive, as it reached a value of USD 4.9 billion in 2023 from USD 4.3 billion in 2019.
The reconditioned IBC market experienced positive growth due to the increasing cost-consciousness of end users as well as the aggressive onset of sustainability initiatives.
Companies have been facing consistent rises in operational costs initiated by a strong and persistently growing US dollar along with the tariff war between the USA and China that began back in 2018. Consequently, several companies embraced reconditioned IBCs owing to their economic advantages, which resonated well in the pre-pandemic business environment.
The impact of climate change was becoming increasingly prevalent, leading to increased pressure on companies to update and improve their ESG goals. Sustainability stopped being a buzzword and started being a necessity.
Consequently, reconditioning IBCs emerged as a viable, sustainable option since it helped to reduce waste and lower the environmental footprint. However, the market faced a temporary slowdown in 2020 owing to the Covid-19 pandemic. Not only did the pandemic induce shutdowns across several end-use businesses, but it also disrupted international trade and the flow of goods, which further affected the market.
Post-pandemic, cost-effectiveness became a priority for several businesses, which further drove the demand for the lower-priced reconditioned IBCs. Moreover, international trade went through a rapid recovery in 2021 and 2022 post-pandemic.
According to estimates from the European Central Bank, global trade increased by almost 13% and over 5% Y-o-Y in 2021 and 2022, respectively, consequently helping the reconditioned IBC market to grow steadily during the historic period.
Different emerging economies have become interconnected because of fewer trading barriers boosting cross-border trade between countries has spurred the demand for reconditioned IBC.
The reusability of IBC aligns with the growing demand for the eco-friendly solution. Increasing focus on reducing waste, recyclability, and reusability has pushed the IBC to be the most attractive solution for maintaining sustainability.
Principal Consultant
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 (2023 to 2033) | 4.7% |
| H2 (2023 to 2033) | 5.3% |
| Particular | Value CAGR |
|---|---|
| H1 (2024 to 2034) | 4.5% |
| H2 (2024 to 2034) | 5.4% |
The above table presents the expected CAGR for the global reconditioned IBC market over several semi-annual periods spanning from 2024 to 2034. In the first half (H1) of the decade from 2023 to 2033, the business is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 4.7%, followed by a slightly higher growth rate of 5.3% in the second half (H2) of the same decade. Moving into the subsequent period, from H1 2024 to H2 2034, the CAGR is projected to increase slightly to 5.4% in the first half and remain relatively moderate at 5.5% in the second half. In the first half (H1), the market witnessed a decrease of 20 BPS, while in the second half (H2), the market witnessed an increase of 10 BPS.
Tier 1 companies comprise market leaders with market revenue of above USD 100 million, capturing a significant market share of 15% to 20% in the global market. These market leaders are characterized by high production capacity and a wide product portfolio.
These market leaders are distinguished by their extensive expertise in manufacturing and reconditioning across multiple packaging formats and a broad geographical reach underpinned by a robust consumer base. They provide a wide range of series, including reconditioning, recycling, and manufacturing, utilizing the latest technology and meeting the regulatory standards, providing the highest quality. Prominent companies within Tier 1 include Greif, Inc., Mauser Group B.V., and Schutz Container Systems, Inc.
Tier 2 companies include mid-size players with revenue of USD 50 to 100 million, having a presence in specific regions and highly influencing the local market. These are characterized by a strong presence overseas and strong market knowledge.
These market players have good technology and ensure regulatory compliance but may not have advanced technology and wide global reach. Prominent companies in tier 2 include North Coast Container, Rahway Steel Drum Co. Inc., Delta Containers, Clouds Drums Dubai LLC, TPL Plastech Limited, Accon Group AS, Mitchell Container Services, Inc., and Precision IBC, Inc.
Tier 3 includes the majority of small-scale companies operating at the local presence and serving niche markets having revenue below USD 50 million. These companies are notably oriented towards fulfilling local market demands and are consequently classified within the tier 3 share segment. They are small-scale players and have limited geographical reach. Tier 3, within this context, is recognized as an unorganized market, denoting a sector characterized by a lack of extensive structure and formalization when compared to organized competitors.
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The section below covers the industry analysis for the reconditioned IBC market for different countries. Market demand analysis on key countries in several regions of the globe, including North America, Asia Pacific, Europe, and others, is provided.
The United States is anticipated to remain at the forefront in North America, with a value share of 77.6% through 2034. In Asia Pacific, South Korea is projected to witness a CAGR of 4.7% by 2034.
| Country | Value CAGR (2024 to 2034) |
|---|---|
| Canada | 3.9% |
| Argentina | 4.3% |
| France | 3.6% |
| Poland | 3.8% |
| Indonesia | 5.1% |
| South Korea | 4.7% |
| GCC Countries | 4.1% |
Germany’s reconditioned IBC market is poised to exhibit a CAGR of 2.9% between 2024 and 2034, reaching over USD 455 million by 2034. Currently, it holds the highest share in the European market, and the trend is expected to continue during the forecast period.
Robust growth of the chemical industry triggered by economic stability and increasing research activities, easy availability of raw materials such as potash, sulfur, and limestone, and the presence of leading chemical companies a key factors driving Germany’s market for reconditioned IBCs. IBCs are best suitable for transporting chemicals, which provides a safe and efficient way to trade the chemical.
The chemical industry is one of the country’s most important industrial sectors which plays a key role in its economic development. According to the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC), chemical is the third largest industry in Germany and recorded a turnover of around USD 230 billion in 2021.
This consistent development of the chemical industry is creating significant demand for industrial packaging solutions such as reconditioned IBCs.
The chemical industry of Germany has several segments, such as inorganics, polymers, petrochemicals, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and specialties that supplement reconditioned IBC demand. German chemical industry is driven by certain trends such as sustainability, climate change, and circular economy which will influence the reconditioned IBC in the country.
North America, spearheaded by the United States, currently holds around 21.0% share of the global reconditioned IBC industry. North America’s market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% throughout the forecast period, amounting to a valuation of USD 1.7 billion by 2034.
The United States is considered the most dominant market for reconditioned IBCs across North America. The country is one of the leading exporters of food and beverage products as well as a key producer of chemicals and pharmaceuticals in the world. For instance, according to The United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP), the pharmaceutical industry in the United States accounts for 10% of the worldwide medicine output.
Leveraging these factors, the United States reconditioned IBC market has been witnessing significant growth, driven by factors such as the rapid expansion of end-use industries, growing environmental concerns over recycling and safe degradation of packaging containers, and the introduction of new regulations aimed at encouraging the adoption of reusable packaging products.
China is expected to have firm strength when it comes to industrial expansion and infrastructural development. Most importantly, in the year 2023, the country is projected to account for around 58% of the reconditioned IBC in East Asia.
China is known for its easy capture of new technology in equivalently less time. The cost of manufacturing is notably less in the country along with the availability of inexpensive labor and extensive consumer plate attracting many producers to enter the Chinese market.
China is one of Asia’s most significant markets for the chemical, food, and personal care industries, making it highly valuable for rental IBC manufacturers. Moreover, the increase in demand for food and agriculture services among the population, along with the rise in industrial growth, will remarkably cause growth in the market.
To gain this advantage, several manufacturers in the intermediate bulk container market are targeting China, which is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.9% during the forecast period.
The section contains information about the leading segments in the industry. By material, the metal IBC segment is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% throughout 2034. Additionally, the industrial chemicals industry is projected to expand at 5.7% by 2034.
| Material | Metal IBCs |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2034) | 56.6% |
The metal IBCs segment dominates the market in terms of revenue, accounting for almost 55% of the market share in 2024. The dominance in revenue share is owing to the significantly higher prices of reconditioned metal IBCs over composite IBCs. According to estimates, reconditioned metal IBCs can cost up to 10 times more than their composite counterparts.
Although metal IBCs prevail by value, in terms of volume, composite IBCs are estimated to thoroughly dominate the market, with total produced volume amounting to 5 times that of metal IBCs. The prominent driving factor behind this dominance is affordability and lower prices.
Reconditioned metal IBCs are forecast to grow remarkably both in terms of volume and value. The metal IBCs segment is poised to grow at a value CAGR of 5.5% across the forecast period, mainly owing to increasing demand from end-use industries such as industrial chemicals and waste disposal. Moreover, the price of steel is expected to fluctuate in the short run and steadily increase in the long run, leading to a consistent increase in the price of the finished product.
| End Use | Industrial Chemicals |
|---|---|
| Value Share (2034) | 36.9% |
The industrial chemicals segment is forecast to account for a revenue of over USD 3.2 billion in the reconditioned IBC market by 2034. It is also poised to expand at a CAGR of 5.7% across the forecast period.
Industrial chemical manufacturers are usually always under competitive pressure owing to which the lower costs of the refurbished IBCs help in the optimization of operational costs. Moreover, it is a common trend for chemical companies to reuse reconditioned IBCs since they have already been tested for chemical compatibility.
The manufacturers prefer reconditioned IBCs over new ones since the former doesn’t require rewashing and is already certified for chemical compatibility, thereby saving time and resources and ensuring uninterrupted operations throughout the supply chain.
The chemical industry is a significant user of reconditioned IBC for shipping and storing hazardous and non-hazardous chemicals, which requires the safety of the products. IBCs are used to ship solvents, chemicals, acids, and other hazardous materials as required to fulfill the international standards for safe carriage.
Key players operating in the reconditioned IBC market are investing in advanced reconditioning facilities and also entering into partnerships. Key reconditioned IBC providers have also been acquiring smaller players to grow their presence to further penetrate the reconditioned market across multiple regions.
Recent Industry Developments in Reconditioned IBC Market
In terms of material, the industry is divided into metal IBCs and composite IBCs.
In terms of capacity, the industry is segregated into standard and customized capabilities. The standard segment has been further segregated into 1,040 liters (275 US gal), and 1,250 liters (330 US gal).
The industry is classified by end use industries as industrial chemicals, petroleum & lubricants, paints, inks & dyes, food & beverages, waste disposal/recycling & silage, and others.
Key countries of North America, Latin America, Europe, East Asia, South Asia, Middle East and Africa (MEA), and Oceania have been covered in the report.
The global reconditioned IBC industry is projected to witness a CAGR of 5.1% between 2024 and 2034.
The global reconditioned IBC industry stood at USD 4.9 billion in 2023.
The global reconditioned IBC industry is anticipated to reach USD 8.7 billion by 2034.
East Asia is set to record a CAGR of 4.8% in the assessment period.
Mauser Group B.V, Greif, Inc., and Schutz Container Systems, Inc.
1. Executive Summary
2. Industry Introduction
2.1. Market Taxonomy
2.2. Market Definition
3. Market Trends and Success Factors
4. Market Background
4.1. Macro-economic and Industry Outlook
4.2. Market Dynamics
4.3. Value Chain Analysis
4.4. List of Key Market Participants (Manufacturers/Channel Partners)
4.5. Analysis of Key Industry Matrices
4.6. Industry Development Roadmap
5. Global Market Demand Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
5.1. Historical Market Volume Analysis
5.2. Future Market Volume Projections
6. Pricing Analysis
7. Global Market Value (US$) Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
7.1. Historical Sales Analysis
7.2. Future Market Size and Growth Projections
8. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, Material Type
8.1. Metal IBCs
8.2. Composite IBCs
9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Capacity
9.1. Standard
9.1.1. 1,040 litres (275 US gal)
9.1.2. 1,250 litres (330 US gal)
9.2. Customized Capabilities
10. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by End Use
10.1. Industrial Chemicals
10.2. Petroleum & Lubricants
10.3. Paints, Inks & Dyes
10.4. Food & Beverages
10.5. Waste Disposal/Recycling & Silage
10.6. Others (Construction, Pharmaceuticals, etc.)
11. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Region
11.1. North America
11.2. Latin America
11.3. Europe
11.4. East Asia
11.5. South Asia
11.6. Middle East and Africa (MEA)
11.7. Oceania
12. North America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
13. Latin America Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
14. Europe Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
15. East Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
16. South Asia Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
17. Middle East and Africa (MEA) Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
18. Oceania Sales Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, by Key Market Segments and Country
19. Sales Analysis 2024 & 2034 by Key Market Segments for 30 Countries
20. Competition Outlook including Market Structure Analysis, Company Share Analysis by Key Players, and Competition Dashboard
21. Company Profile
21.1. Mauser Group B.V
21.2. Greif, Inc.
21.3. Schutz Container Systems, Inc
21.4. Rahway Steel Drum Co Inc
21.5. Clouds Drums Dubai LLC
21.6. Varilsan Packaging
21.7. TPL Plastech Limited
21.8. Accon group AS
21.9. Precision IBC, Inc
21.10. Recontainers Ltd
21.11. OBAL CENTRUM s.r.o.
21.12. North Coast Container (Container Management Services)
21.13. Metano IBC
21.14. IBC Tanks
21.15. Delta Containers
21.16. The Cary Company
21.17. Mitchell Container Services, Inc.
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Reconditioned IBC Market
