Totes come in just two sizes: 275 gallons and 330 gallons. These versatile containers have many uses. They can be used to store and transport chemicals, liquids, food ingredients, sand, grains, pharmaceuticals, and solvents. In some cases, totes have been used to collect rainwater for drinking purposes.
There are three types of totes: folding, rigid, and flexible. Folding ones are typically made of durable plastic that can fold inward. These do not have a cage around them, whereas rigid ones do.
Rigid totes are commonly made of a plastic called polyethylene, although they can also be made of galvanized iron or aluminum. The cage is made of iron or galvanized steel. Flexible totes are made of a heavy-duty bag-like material such as polyethylene or polypropylene.
Benefits of Using Totes
Totes have many benefits. They can move many products safely, easily and inexpensively. Their footprint – 48” x 40” – is a common pallet size, which makes them easy to ship. In addition, totes meet international shipping regulations.
Totes save space when compared to drums. One 275-gallon tote uses less space than five 55-gallon barrels. A 330-gallon tote uses less space than six 55-gallon totes. This amounts to a space savings of 25%.
Totes have a discharge valve that allows it to be easily emptied. The special design and different gasket materials allow solid materials and liquids to be discharged easily. This eliminates product waste.
Totes reduce the time required for filling, labeling, and sealing. They are reusable, and the parts – pallets, valves, and bottles – can be replaced when needed.
If you need to keep the items warm, you can utilize a tote heater. Tote heaters are wraps that enclose the entire tote. They offer insulation to heat and protect the items inside your tote. They are energy-efficient but offer adequate heat.
Totes don’t offer a lot of variety when it comes to sizes, but they make up for it in efficiency. They eliminate the need for multiple drums, which take up a lot of room. Totes save space and offer many benefits for warehouses and other business purposes.
