Returning AG Drums and IBCs

Read this before you set up your first return!

After reading, click on the links at the bottom of this page to activate your AG Chem IBC return.

Let’s face it, when you have a warehouse or field full of empty containers all you really want to do is get
them “out of there!”

We understand… completely. That is why we have developed our return program.

Empty AGCHEM containers are as popular as death and taxes, with the death and taxes looking like
easier subjects to handle.

Empty AGCHEM containers are very tricky to dispose of. The more you read and the more questions you
ask the more confused most folks get.

We will try to make this simple… well as simple as it gets.

To eliminate 99% of the questions we get about recycle and returning AGCHEM containers, let’s just
address the two biggest of them:

1. Do you take all type of Plastic Drums and IBCs for free?

Simple answer is yes. We take all makes and models of plastic drums and IBCs. However, the IBCs must
be the bottle in cage variety to be returned and recycled for free. Shuttles, Minibulks that are the heavy
duty rotationally molded IBCs need a separate program and will probably cost some money to dispose
of. Take a look at our AGRIBC website. If the IBC doesn’t look like one of our bottle in a cage PASSPORT
IBCs, call before sending it. We can help you out; it will just be a different program.

2. What is your definition of empty?

Our definition is eclipsed by two entities that are acutely concerned –  EPA and the Basic Manufacturer

All IBCs are to be empty according to EPA regulations. To review what these regulations are simply click here:

40CFR 261.7. (http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/cfr_2002/julqtr/pdf/40cfr261.7.pdf) 

Word for Word from this regulation the IBC must be...

"No more than 2.5 centimeters (one inch) of residue remain on the bottom of the container or inner liner, or... 

(B) No more than 0.3 percent by weight of the total capacity of the container remains in the container or inner liner if the container is greater than 110 gallons in size."

If it’s a “P” Listed Chemical the EPA has something to say!  Accordingly the container must be triple rinsed to be deemed empty. They define triple rinsing as “being triple rinsed by a solvent capable of removing the product.” Once you triple rinse it, you’ll need to mark the container as triple rinsed.

Not sure if you container previously held a “P” listed product? Click here 40CFR 261.33(e)  (http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/cfr_2006/julqtr/pdf/40cfr261.33.pdf). If you are still confused, talk to your environmental compliance team or call the basic manufacturer.

Lastly, the Basic Manufacturer probably has given instructions on the disposal and shipping of drums and IBCs. Many require triple rinsing before they are shipped. You’ll need to check with them as well.

To learn how to triple rinse an IBC, click the following link provided by the Agricultural Container Recycling Council, which IBC North America is a member.  Brochure

3. What if the IBC contained a DOT regulated Hazardous Material?

If the previous product in the IBC was a DOT Regulated product (which would require a Diamond Hazardous Material Label on the IBC). The IBC would have to be empty per the above EPA rule (40CFR 261.7) IBCs with residue in the bottom must be shipped in compliance with the applicable DOT Hazardous Material Regulations.  If the IBC is triple-rinsed, it is not regulated by the DOT and should have the DOT hazard labels removed.

Here’s the bottom line. You and your company are liable for whatever you ship over the road and send in to us to recycle. Take some time and do your homework. Once you do the leg work once, you’ll never have to do it again.

Have you done your homework and are you ready to set up a return? Just click on the Return Net
System Link!

E-mail Activation Form
Click on HERE to be directed to an e-mail form that will send your request directly to ReturnNet Systems.

Fax Activation Form
Click HERE to go to our download page for the ReturnNet System Activation Form. To begin the pick up process, complete the form and fax it back to (251) 947-2450.