Buy Used Metal Drums in Folsom

Save Money on Metal Drums: Your Complete Guide to Buying Used in Folsom, CA

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to find quality used metal drums in Folsom for 50-70% less than new ones, avoid common buying mistakes, and discover the best local sources.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums offer three main benefits:

• Save money: Pay $15-90 instead of $150-300 for new drums
• Help the environment: Keep drums out of landfills and reduce steel production
• Get quality containers: Most used drums work as well as new ones

What Are Metal Drums Used For?

People in Folsom use metal drums for:

• Storing rainwater for gardens
• Holding chemicals and oils safely
• Making compost bins
• Creating burn barrels
• Building planters
• Storing bulk materials

Types of Used Metal Drums

Open-Head Drums

• Have removable lids with clamp rings
• Easy to fill and empty
• Good for solid materials
• Cost $15-45 used

Tight-Head Drums

• Have sealed tops with small openings
• Keep liquids secure
• Good for oils and chemicals
• Cost $25-90 used

Food-Grade vs Industrial-Grade

• Food-grade: Previously held food or drinks, safe for water storage
• Industrial-grade: Held chemicals or oils, need careful cleaning

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Folsom

Local Recycling Centers

• City of Folsom Solid Waste facility
• Radius Recycling in Rancho Cordova
• Often sell at scrap prices
• Call ahead to check availability

Industrial Suppliers

• Sacramento Container Corporation
• Vision Industrial Packaging Inc
• Haulaway Storage Containers
• Better selection, higher prices
• Often deliver to your location

Auto Salvage Yards

• Nor Cal Car & Truck Wrecking
• Pick-n-Pull
• All Ford Auto Wrecking
• Cheapest option
• Drums may need more cleaning

Online Sources

• Craigslist
• OfferUp
• Facebook Marketplace
• Meet sellers in person
• Inspect before buying

How to Check if a Drum is Good

Before you buy, check these things:

Outside the Drum

• Look for rust, dents, or holes
• Check if the bottom is flat
• Make sure handles are secure
• Avoid drums with deep damage

Inside the Drum

• Smell for strong chemical odors
• Look for rust or coating damage
• Check if it's clean
• Ask what was stored in it

Test for Leaks

• Fill with water and wait 24 hours
• Look for any water seeping out
• Check around the bottom edge
• Test tight-head drums at the small openings

Safety Rules When Buying Used Drums

What to Avoid

• Drums that held dangerous chemicals
• Containers with strong smells you can't identify
• Drums with holes or deep rust
• Containers without proper markings

What to Look For

• UN certification marks (like "UN 1A1")
• Clean interior surfaces
• Intact gaskets and seals
• Clear history of contents

Prices You Should Pay

Recycling Centers

• $15-25 per drum
• Basic condition
• No guarantees

Industrial Suppliers

• $40-90 per drum
• Better condition
• Some cleaning done
• Bulk discounts available

Auto Salvage Yards

• $10-35 per drum
• Needs cleaning
• Good for non-critical uses

Online Sellers

• $20-60 per drum
• Condition varies
• Meet in person first

Getting Your Drums Home

Single Drums

• Use a pickup truck
• Drums weigh 40-50 pounds empty
• Bring tie-down straps
• Get help loading

Multiple Drums

• Many suppliers deliver
• Rent a trailer for 5+ drums
• Some places load with forklifts
• Plan for unloading help

Storing Your Drums

Indoor Storage

• Keep off concrete floors
• Use pallets or racks
• Good air circulation
• Label what's inside

Outdoor Storage

• Level, dry ground
• Cover tops to prevent rust
• Check regularly for damage
• Secure lids tightly

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't Buy Without Inspecting

• Always see the drum first
• Test for leaks
• Check the smell
• Ask about previous contents

Don't Ignore Safety

• Wear gloves when handling
• Don't store food in industrial drums
• Clean thoroughly before use
• Follow local disposal rules

Don't Overpay

• Compare prices at different places
• Ask about bulk discounts
• Consider transport costs
• Factor in cleaning time

Final Tips

Best Times to Buy

• Spring and fall when businesses clean out
• After harvest season
• During construction project endings
• When companies relocate

Making Drums Last Longer

• Keep lids on when not in use
• Store in dry locations
• Clean after each use
• Check for damage regularly

Questions to Ask Sellers

• What was stored in the drum?
• How long ago was it emptied?
• Has it been cleaned?
• Are there any leaks or damage?

Buying used metal drums in Folsom can save you serious money while helping the environment. The key is knowing where to look, what to check, and how much to pay. Start with local recycling centers for the best deals, or go to industrial suppliers for better quality. Always inspect before you buy, and don't be afraid to walk away if something doesn't feel right.

Remember: A good used drum should look clean, smell neutral, and hold water without leaking. If it passes these tests, you'll have a reliable container that will serve you well for years to come.