Best Storage Tanks in the US: Compare Top Stores & Models for Home, Garden, and Industrial Use

Why Choosing the Right Storage Tank Matters

Picking the right storage tank isn’t just about capacity and color — it affects safety, longevity, and whether your project actually works. Whether you're harvesting rainwater for irrigation, storing fuel for a generator, or keeping chemicals for a small workshop, the right tank protects your investment and keeps whatever’s inside clean and usable. Think of a tank as the foundation of a supply chain that lives in your backyard or jobsite: choose poorly and the problems ripple outward; choose well and everything runs smoothly.

Types of Storage Tanks and What They're Best For

Water Tanks (Polyethylene and Fiberglass)

Polyethylene tanks are the workhorses for residential and light-commercial water storage. They’re lightweight, UV-stabilized, resistant to rust, and available in capacities from about 50 gallons to several thousand gallons. Fiberglass tanks are stiffer and often used when chemical resistance and structural rigidity matter. For rainwater harvesting and potable systems, polyethylene tanks rated for drinking water are common choices.

Fuel and Diesel Tanks

Fuel tanks are specifically engineered for petroleum products and need secondary containment, proper venting, and secure fittings. You'll find steel tanks, double-walled poly tanks, and bunded designs sold through specialty suppliers and big-box stores. If you store fuel for a standby generator, tractor, or farm equipment, prioritize tanks with compatible fittings, leak protection, and a proven safety record.

IBC Totes and Intermediate Bulk Containers

IBCs (commonly 275 or 330 gallons) offer a compact, stackable option for liquids and chemicals. They’re popular because they’re transportable, easy to move with a pallet jack or forklift, and relatively inexpensive per gallon. Keep in mind they’re typically plastic in a steel cage, so check chemical compatibility and whether a liner or secondary containment is needed.

Septic and Holding Tanks

Septic and holding tanks are designed for wastewater and sewage. These are generally molded polyethylene or concrete and sized by household occupancy and local code. Choosing the right tank for a septic system means considering soil type, drainage, and local health regulations, not just raw volume.

Chemical and Industrial Tanks

For corrosive chemicals or industrial liquids, specialty materials like cross-linked polyethylene, polypropylene, or fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) are common. These tanks are typically available through industrial suppliers and require attention to chemical compatibility charts and recommended fittings.

Top US Stores Where You Can Buy Storage Tanks

Home Depot

Home Depot carries a wide selection of residential-grade tanks: water cisterns, rain barrels, poly vertical tanks, and certain fuel containers. They balance price and availability, making them a solid first stop for homeowners. Expect top brands to show up online and in larger stores, plus accessories like stands, pumps, and fittings.

Lowe's

Lowe’s offers a comparable range to Home Depot, focusing on polyethylene tanks for rainwater harvesting, lawn irrigation, and small-farm uses. If you’re doing a DIY installation, Lowe’s is a convenient place to pick up plumbing adapters, pumps, and filtration devices as you shop for your tank.

Tractor Supply Co.

Tractor Supply targets farmers, ranchers, and rural homeowners, so you’ll find larger capacity poly tanks, fuel storage options, and sprayer tanks. Their inventory often includes tanks geared toward agricultural needs — think feed, stock water, and diesel storage — and they stock accessories tuned to that customer base.

Rural King

Like Tractor Supply, Rural King serves agricultural and rural markets. They carry heavy-duty water tanks, livestock waterers, and a selection of fuel and chemical tanks. If you’re in the market for robust solutions for outdoor and farm use, they’re worth checking out, especially in regions where rural supply stores are more accessible than big-box chains.

Menards

Menards can be a good local option in the Midwest for homeowners seeking polyethylene water tanks, rain barrels, and pump kits. Their selection can vary by store, so online inventory checks are common practice. Menards often prices competitively and runs seasonal promotions.

Amazon and Walmart

Online marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart give you access to a vast array of brands, including import and specialty vendors. They’re convenient for smaller tanks, IBC totes, and accessory parts. But with marketplaces, double-check seller ratings, product certifications, and shipping dimensions — big tanks can incur surprising costs to transport.

Key Features to Compare Before Buying

Material and Durability

Material determines resistance to UV, chemicals, and structural stress. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is strong, inexpensive, and UV-stable when properly treated. Fiberglass and FRP resist many chemicals and perform well in tough environments. Steel is durable but prone to corrosion unless coated. Always match material to the stored liquid.

Capacity and Footprint

Don’t buy by price alone — make sure the tank fits the allocated space. Measure area in feet and inches, account for clearance for connections and maintenance, and factor the tank’s footprint and height. For instance, a 500-gallon vertical poly tank might stand about 6 to 7 feet tall and take up roughly 3 to 4 square feet of ground space, depending on the model.

Certifications and UV Stabilization

Look for NSF/ANSI ratings for potable water, UL listings for fuel tanks, and UV stabilization for outdoor tanks. Certified tanks provide assurance that materials and manufacturing meet safety, health, or performance standards — and can save you headaches during permitting or inspections.

Fittings, Vents, and Accessories

Check inlet and outlet sizes, thread types, and whether the tank includes bulkheads or mounting bosses. You’ll often need elbows, valves, vent fittings, and a compatible pump. Some tanks come with pre-molded fittings, which cut down on installation time and leak points.

Size Guide: Choosing the Right Capacity

Picking capacity depends on use case: a garden rain barrel might be 50 to 100 gallons, a household cistern 500 to 1,500 gallons, and a small farm or emergency fuel supply could need 1,000 gallons or more. Here are quick reference points to visualize sizes:

- 50–100 gallons: Typical rain barrels and small sprayer tanks; compact and easy to move by one person.

- 275 gallons (IBC tote): A common, transportable unit that holds a lot without a massive footprint — roughly 4 feet by 3 feet by 3.5 feet high.

- 500–1,000 gallons: Good for household backup water or moderate farm needs; often vertical tanks about 5–8 feet tall.

- 1,000–5,000 gallons: Scalability for larger properties, livestock, or commercial operations; may require a pad and professional installation.

Price Ranges and Budgeting Tips

Storage tank prices vary widely with size and material. Small 50–100 gallon polyethylene tanks can be under $200, while 275-gallon IBCs are often between $300–$700. Mid-range vertical tanks in the 500–1,000 gallon class typically land between $600 and $2,000, and large farm or industrial tanks can range from $2,000 into the tens of thousands. Don’t forget to budget for fittings, stands, pads, and pumps — accessories can add 10–30% to the total cost.

Installation: DIY vs Professional Help

Smaller tanks are often straightforward DIY projects: level pad, secure fittings, hook up pump and plumbing. As size grows, installation complexity ramps up. Tanks over a certain capacity may need a concrete pad, proper anchoring, and secondary containment. If you’re unsure about permits, soil bearing, or venting requirements, bring in a pro — it’s cheaper than correcting mistakes later.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Tank Life

Cleaning and Inspection

Routine inspection for cracks, UV damage, and seals is the single best way to extend tank life. A visual check every few months and an annual cleanout for water tanks prevents sediment build-up and contamination. For large tanks, follow manufacturer recommendations for access and cleaning procedures.

Protecting Against Freezing

In colder regions, freezing is a real threat. Insulate above-ground tanks, install heat tape on exposed lines, and consider burying lines below frost depth if possible. For potable systems, keep a small circulating pump or recirculating setup to reduce standing cold spots that freeze.

Preventing Contamination

Keep inlets screened, use first-flush diverters for rainwater systems, and avoid storing incompatible chemicals in the same tank. If you store potable water, ensure all materials and fittings are rated for drinking water and maintain lids and seals to prevent animal or insect ingress.

Safety and Regulations

Safety matters: fuel and chemical tanks often require secondary containment and proper labeling. Local codes can dictate setback distances, overflow protections, and approved materials. Before buying a fuel or large-capacity tank, check local regulations and building codes — permits and inspections may be required, particularly for permanent installations.

How to Compare Models Online and In-Store

When comparing models, make a checklist: material, certified ratings (NSF, UL), capacity, dimensions in feet and inches, inlet/outlet sizes, included fittings, and warranty length. Read customer reviews for real-world longevity and installation tips. In-store shopping lets you inspect thickness and fittings; online shopping gives access to broader selections and specifications. Combine both approaches to make an informed decision.

Environmental Benefits: Rainwater Harvesting and Conservation

Using storage tanks for rainwater collection reduces demand on municipal systems and lowers utility bills. Even modest setups — think a couple of 200–500 gallon tanks — can keep a lawn and garden irrigated during dry spells. Paired with a pump and simple filtration, harvested rainwater supports sustainable landscaping and cuts water costs.

Moving and Transporting Tanks Safely

Tanks aren’t always easy to move. Smaller tanks you can lift safely with two people; larger tanks need equipment. IBCs and stacked tanks require forklifts or pallet jacks. When transporting tanks long distances, secure them flat, avoid sharp turns that stress fittings, and check for manufacturer instructions on empty vs. full transport. Remember: gravity and liquid sloshing change how a loaded tank behaves during a move.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t skimp on site preparation, and don’t assume every tank is compatible with every liquid. Avoid undersizing for future needs, underestimating the need for fittings, and neglecting certifications. Skipping manufacturer installation guidelines or local code checks is a surefire way to add time and expense later.

Final Buying Checklist

Before you hit “buy,” walk through this quick checklist: confirm the liquid type and required material compatibility; measure the installation footprint in feet and inches; verify inlet/outlet sizes and included hardware; check certifications for potable or fuel uses; budget for accessories like stands and pumps; and ensure you can transport and install the tank safely. This keeps surprises to a minimum.

Conclusion

Choosing the right storage tank means balancing capacity, material, cost, and installation complexity. Whether you shop at big-box stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s, rural suppliers like Tractor Supply and Rural King, or online marketplaces, do your homework: check certifications, measure carefully in feet and inches, and plan for accessories and installation. With the right tank, you’ll secure water, fuel, or chemicals safely and efficiently, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from a well-chosen system.