Buy Used Metal Drums in Sacramento

How to Buy Cheap Used Metal Drums in Sacramento - Save Up to 70% on Storage Containers

You can buy a used 55-gallon steel drum for as little as $15 in Sacramento. This guide shows you where to find them, what to pay, and how to choose safe drums that work for your needs.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used drums cost 50-70% less than new ones. A single reconditioned drum costs $15-90 instead of $150-300 for new. You also help the environment by reusing steel containers.

Where to Find Used Drums in Sacramento

Online Marketplaces

• RePackify marketplace: $35-70 per drum (reconditioned and tested)

Local Stores

• Industrial supply stores: $50-90 per drum

Bulk Suppliers

• RePackify: Offers local delivery for large orders

What You'll Pay

Here's what drums typically cost:

• Untested drums from individuals: $15-30 each
• Reconditioned drums from suppliers: $50-70 each
• Food-grade or chemical-rated drums: $80-115 each
• Bulk orders (50+ drums): $35-55 each

Two Main Types of Drums

Tight-head drums have a sealed top with two small openings. Best for liquids like oil or water.

Open-head drums have a removable lid. Best for solid materials or when you need easy access inside.

What to Check Before Buying

1. What Was Stored Inside

Ask what the drum previously held. Avoid drums that stored:

• Pesticides
• Paint thinners
• Unknown chemicals

Safe previous contents include:

• Food products
• Soap
• Motor oil
• Water

2. Physical Condition

Look for:

• Rust spots or holes
• Dents in the sides or bottom
• Damaged rim where the lid sits
• Missing or cracked rubber seals

3. Cleaning Status

Reconditioned drums should be:

• Pressure washed inside and out
• Tested for leaks
• Marked with a reconditioning code

Legal Requirements

If you plan to ship hazardous materials, your drums must have UN certification markings. Look for codes like "UN 1A1" stamped on the drum.

For waste storage in California, drums must be in good condition with no leaks or structural damage.

How Many Should You Buy?

• 1-5 drums: Buy from individuals or local stores
• 8-12 drums: Order a pallet from suppliers
• 50+ drums: Contact RePackify for bulk pricing and delivery

Before You Purchase

Ask about the drum's history

Inspect each drum in person when possible

Test a sample drum with water to check for leaks

Confirm you have transport (drums weigh 40-50 pounds empty)

Plan storage space (drums are 35 inches tall, 23 inches wide)

Example: Buying Your First Drum

Sarah needed one drum for rainwater collection. She found a food-grade drum on Craigslist for $20. She asked what it previously held (vegetable oil), checked for rust (none found), and tested it with water (no leaks). Total cost: $20 plus gas to pick it up.

Getting Started

Start by checking Craigslist and OfferUp for single drums near you. For multiple drums or guaranteed quality, contact RePackify for a quote. They offer reconditioned drums with testing certificates and can deliver to your location.

Used metal drums offer excellent value when you know what to look for. Follow these guidelines and you'll find quality containers at fraction of the new price.