VARIBOX FC, the Reusable Alternative to Recon Totes
When it comes to sustainable chemical packaging, many companies consider recon totes as a way to reduce waste and extend the life of their containers. But there’s a better, safer, and more efficient solution: the VARIBOX FC 275 Gallon Tote. Instead of reconditioning single-use containers, the VARIBOX FC is designed from the ground up for true reusability offering Full Containment safety, U.S. DOT certification, and a service life of up to 10 years. It’s the professional alternative to recon totes for companies that take safety and sustainability seriously.
Safer
Reusable
Sustainable
Recon Totes vs. True Reusable Containers
A recon tote is typically a used container that’s been cleaned and refurbished for another use. While this sounds sustainable, it introduces several risks:
- Inconsistent quality due to varied cleaning or inspection standards.
- Uncertain chemical history, which may lead to cross-contamination.
- Limited lifespan, as plastic integrity weakens with repeated use.
- Unclear compliance with DOT or UN regulations after reconditioning.
In contrast, the VARIBOX FC 275 Gallon Tote is purpose-built for repeated use over many years. Every tote is engineered with durable rotomolded polyethylene, a double-walled Full Containment design, and consistent traceability. There’s no guesswork — just proven safety and reliability from the first fill to the last.
Designed for Reuse, Not Reconditioning
The difference between recon and reusable is in the design philosophy. A recon tote starts as a single-use container that’s later cleaned and repurposed. The VARIBOX FC starts as a long-life reusable system, built to withstand repeated handling, filling, and transport without degradation. Its modular construction allows replacement of critical components such as the inner tank, valve, or dip tube extending its lifespan and reducing total ownership costs. Instead of constantly reconditioning and testing old containers, the VARIBOX FC provides a controlled, repeatable, and fully compliant reuse process.
Full Containment for Total Safety
The FC in VARIBOX FC stands for Full Containment a design that protects people and the environment. The double-walled structure provides integrated secondary containment, so even if the inner tank fails, the outer wall keeps the chemical safely enclosed. This means no external bunds, no additional spill pallets, and no uncontrolled leaks. For companies transitioning away from recon totes, this is a significant upgrade: a system that guarantees built-in protection and eliminates uncertainty about containment integrity.
DOT Approved and Globally Compliant
Every VARIBOX FC is fully certified under U.S. DOT, UN/ADR, RID, and IMDG standards, ensuring safe use in both domestic and international transport. Recon totes often face compliance challenges because their original certification may no longer apply after reconditioning. The VARIBOX FC removes that doubt. Each tote carries a unique serial number and can be inspected and reused within the defined 10-year lifespan — providing a clear, auditable record for quality and compliance teams.
Sustainable by Design
Sustainability isn’t just about using a container twice — it’s about reducing waste at the source. The VARIBOX FC eliminates the need for recon totes entirely by being inherently reusable and recyclable. Its long lifespan reduces the number of containers needed over time, while the durable polyethylene construction withstands harsh environments without cracking or leaking. At the end of its life, the materials can be safely recycled, closing the loop in a true circular system. By choosing a tote designed for reuse rather than one reconditioned for reuse, companies gain control, consistency, and compliance — all while reducing their environmental impact.
Handling Efficiency and Easy Integration
The 275-gallon (1000-liter) design provides the perfect balance between volume and manoeuvrability. The VARIBOX FC’s square footprint saves warehouse and truck space, and its integrated forklift and pallet entry points simplify movement. It’s also fully compatible with standard filling and dispensing systems — allowing a seamless switch from recon totes to a cleaner, safer, and more consistent solution.
The Future Beyond Recon Totes
Reconditioning is a temporary fix. True reusability is a long-term solution. The VARIBOX FC 275 Gallon Tote represents the next step in sustainable chemical packaging a container built for repeated use, consistent safety, and full regulatory compliance. Instead of relying on recon totes with uncertain quality, choose a system designed for the future. With the VARIBOX FC, you don’t just reuse you reuse safely, confidently, and sustainably.
VARIBOX FC 1000L
The double-walled VARIBOX is available in an EPDM or Viton version depending on the chemicals that will be packed in the container. This will be fully matched to the Safeline system. But of course, the VARIBOX FC is also applicable for other extractor tubes. The full containment IBCs are available in many different colors as blue, dark blue, yellow, orange, green, and natural to match your product coding. Next to that, to be 100% safe the containers are equipped with automatic venting in terms of a pressure relief vent or combi-vent.
