Buy Used Metal Drums in Chandler

Save Money on Metal Drums: Your Complete Guide to Buying Used in Chandler, AZ

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find quality used metal drums in Chandler, how to inspect them properly, and save up to 70% compared to buying new drums.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums solve storage problems without breaking your budget. Here's what makes them smart:

• Cost savings: Pay 30-70% less than new drums
• Environmental benefit: Keep useful containers out of landfills
• Immediate availability: No waiting for special orders
• Proven durability: These drums already proved they last

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Chandler

Dedicated Drum Suppliers

These businesses specialize in cleaned, ready-to-use drums:

• Best for: Food storage, water collection, reliable quality
• What they offer: Triple-rinsed drums, food-grade certification
• Sizes available: 15-gallon to 55-gallon options
• Price range: Medium to high
• Delivery: Often available

Recycling Centers

Check these places for occasional finds:

• Best for: Budget buyers, non-food storage
• What they offer: Variable inventory, rock-bottom prices
• When to visit: Call ahead to check availability
• Price range: Very low
• Tip: Ask about upcoming auctions

Industrial Distributors

These suppliers handle both new and used inventory:

• Best for: Bulk purchases, specialty drums
• What they offer: Customer trade-ins, certified containers
• Benefits: Warranty options, material certifications
• Price range: Medium to high
• Services: Loading dock access, forklift support

Hardware Stores

While they don't sell drums, you'll need accessories:

• What you'll find: Drum pumps, funnels, bungs, stands
• Services: Expert advice, delivery options
• Why visit: Get everything in one trip

How to Choose the Right Drum

Start with Your Needs

Ask yourself these questions:

• What will you store? (Water, food, chemicals, dry goods)
• How much space do you have?
• Do you need food-grade quality?
• Will you move the drum often?

Size Guide

Common sizes and their uses:

• 15-gallon: Small gardens, limited storage space
• 30-gallon: Medium projects, rainwater collection
• 55-gallon: Large storage, commercial use

Material Types

• Steel drums: Strong, durable, good for most liquids
• Stainless steel: Premium option, never rusts
• Plastic drums: Lighter weight, won't rust

Inspection Checklist

Before you buy, check these things:

Outside the Drum

• Look for: Dents, rust spots, missing labels
• Check: All seams and joints for cracks
• Test: Roll the drum to check if it's round

Inside the Drum

• Smell test: Strong odors mean poor cleaning
• Visual check: Look for stains, residue, pitting
• Shake test: Listen for loose debris

Documentation

• Ask for: Cleaning certificates, previous contents history
• Verify: Food-grade certification if needed
• Keep: All paperwork for your records

Safety and Legal Considerations

Know the Rules

• Check local regulations before storing certain materials
• Some areas restrict petroleum or chemical containers
• Food-grade drums need proper certification

Cleaning Protocol

If you're unsure about a drum's cleanliness:

First rinse: Use hot water and detergent

Sanitize: Bleach solution for 10 minutes

Final rinse: Clean potable water

Air dry: Completely before use

Storage Safety

• Keep drums: Away from heat sources
• Use proper: Stands to prevent rolling
• Label clearly: Contents and date filled
• Check regularly: For leaks or damage

Cost Comparison

New vs. Used Drum Prices

• New 55-gallon steel drum: $150-200
• Used 55-gallon steel drum: $45-80
• Your savings: $70-120 per drum

Additional Costs to Consider

• Cleaning supplies: $10-20 if needed
• Accessories: $15-50 for pumps, funnels
• Delivery: $25-50 if not picking up

Common Uses for Used Drums

Home Projects

• Rainwater collection: Save on water bills
• Composting: Large-capacity organic waste
• Storage: Garden tools, seasonal items

Small Business

• Food service: Ingredient storage
• Manufacturing: Raw material containers
• Agriculture: Feed, water, chemical storage

Emergency Preparedness

• Water storage: 55 gallons per person recommended
• Food storage: Dry goods in sealed containers
• Supply organization: Keep emergency items sorted

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy drums with these problems:

• Strong chemical odors: May never come clean
• Structural damage: Dents that prevent proper sealing
• Unknown history: No documentation of previous contents
• Rust holes: Even small ones will grow
• Missing parts: Lids, rings, or drain plugs

Getting the Best Deal

Timing Tips

• End of month: Suppliers clearing inventory
• Industrial cleanouts: Large quantities available
• Seasonal: Spring demand higher for garden use

Negotiation Strategies

• Buy multiple: Ask for volume discounts
• Cash payment: Some suppliers offer cash discounts
• Pickup yourself: Save on delivery charges
• Flexible timing: Accept delivery when convenient for seller

Final Tips

Before You Buy

• Measure your space: Ensure the drum fits
• Plan transportation: 55-gallon drums are heavy
• Check regulations: Verify local storage rules
• Budget for extras: Accessories and cleaning supplies

After Purchase

• Clean immediately: Even if it looks clean
• Test with water: Before storing valuable materials
• Document everything: Keep receipts and certificates
• Inspect regularly: Check for new damage or wear

Used metal drums offer an excellent way to solve storage problems while saving money. By following this guide, you'll find quality containers that serve your needs for years to come. Remember: the key is knowing what to look for and where to find it.