Company History
From a small recycling operation to an industry leader - discover how IBC Tanks has grown over 15 years of dedicated service to businesses across two continents.
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The Founding Story
In 2009, a group of logistics professionals in Seattle noticed something troubling: thousands of high-quality IBC tanks were being discarded after just one use. These containers, designed to last for years, were ending up in landfills simply because there was no efficient system to collect, clean, and redistribute them.
This observation sparked an idea – what if we could create a circular economy for IBC tanks? What if we could help businesses save money while also reducing industrial waste? With this vision, IBC Tanks was born.
Starting in a modest 5,000 square foot warehouse, our founders began collecting used tanks from local businesses, carefully inspecting and cleaning them, and offering them back to the market at competitive prices. The response was immediate and overwhelming.
“We saw an opportunity to do well by doing good. Every tank we recycle is one less piece of industrial waste and one more affordable container for a business that needs it.”
— Founding Team, 2009
Early Days at a Glance
The Vision
Our founders recognized a significant problem: thousands of ...
The Mission
From day one, our mission has been clear – extend the lifecy...
The Values
Built on a foundation of integrity, quality, and sustainabil...
15 Years of Milestones
From a small warehouse in Seattle to operations spanning two continents, here are the key moments that shaped IBC Tanks.
The Beginning
Founded in Seattle, Washington as a small IBC recycling operation with a focus on environmental sustainability. Started by a team of logistics professionals who saw an opportunity to reduce industrial waste.
- Initial team of 3 employees
- First facility: 5,000 sq ft warehouse
- Focus on local Seattle market
- Processing 500 tanks in first year
First Major Contract
Secured our first major contract with a regional chemical distributor, processing over 1,000 tanks annually. This milestone proved our business model and quality standards.
- Expanded team to 8 employees
- Added quality inspection protocols
- Introduced grading system (A, B, C)
- Established key industry partnerships
Expansion of Services
Added repair and reconditioning services, allowing customers to extend the life of their IBC tanks. Invested in professional cleaning equipment and valve replacement capabilities.
- Built dedicated repair workshop
- Trained specialized technicians
- Introduced tank cleaning services
- Started offering warranty on repairs
West Coast Growth
Expanded operations across the West Coast, establishing partnerships with major logistics providers. Opened satellite facilities in California and Oregon.
- Opened Los Angeles facility
- Portland distribution center launched
- Fleet expanded to 10 trucks
- Processing 10,000 tanks annually
Nationwide Presence
Achieved nationwide coverage with transportation services reaching all 50 states. Established strategic partnerships with regional carriers across the country.
- Network of 25+ logistics partners
- East coast distribution center
- Team grew to 50+ employees
- Introduced nationwide delivery
International Expansion
Began serving European markets, establishing partnerships with recyclers and distributors across the EU. Opened European operations headquarter in the UK.
- UK operations launched
- Partners in 10 EU countries
- EU compliance certification
- European customer support team
Sustainability Milestone
Reached 50,000 tanks recycled milestone, preventing thousands of tons of plastic from entering landfills. Achieved recognition for environmental leadership.
- Environmental award recipient
- Carbon footprint reduction program
- Expanded recycling capabilities
- 15 European countries coverage
Digital Transformation
Launched our digital platform for easier ordering, tracking, and customer service. Implemented real-time inventory management and customer portal.
- Online ordering system
- Real-time tracking
- Customer self-service portal
- Mobile app development started
Continued Growth
Processing over 50,000 tanks annually with a 98% customer satisfaction rate. Expanded to Mexico and strengthened presence across all markets.
- Mexico operations launched
- 100+ employees worldwide
- New corporate headquarters
- Industry-leading satisfaction rate
15 Years of Excellence
Our journey has been marked by continuous growth and unwavering commitment to our customers.
Growth Timeline
Key Achievements
Environmental Impact Award
Recognized for preventing over 10,000 tons of plastic waste from entering landfills.
Business Excellence Award
Awarded for outstanding growth and customer service in the recycling industry.
ISO 9001:2015 Certification
Achieved international quality management system certification.
Best Employer Award
Recognized as one of the best employers in the industrial services sector.
Innovation Award
Honored for our digital transformation and online platform launch.
Sustainability Leader
Named a sustainability leader in the container recycling industry.
Our Vision for the Future
As we continue to grow, our commitment to sustainability and customer service remains unchanged. We envision a future where every IBC tank is reused to its fullest potential before being responsibly recycled.
Our goals for the next decade include expanding our recycling capacity, reducing our carbon footprint even further, and making IBC tank management seamless for businesses of all sizes.
With new technologies like IoT-enabled tank tracking, advanced cleaning systems, and AI-powered inventory management, we're building the infrastructure for the next generation of sustainable container solutions.
Learn About Our Sustainability Goals2030 Goals
- Process 100,000+ tanks annually50%
- Achieve carbon neutral operations35%
- Expand to 50+ countries70%
- Launch IoT tank tracking system60%
- Partner with 10,000+ businesses50%
- Zero waste to landfill operations40%
Growing Together
From 3 founders to 100+ team members across two continents, our growth has always been about the people who make IBC Tanks great.
Be Part of Our Story
Join the thousands of businesses that have made us their trusted IBC tank partner. Together, we can build a more sustainable future.