Buy Used Metal Drums in Colorado

How to Find Cheap Used Metal Drums in Colorado

What you'll get from this guide: Save money on quality 55-gallon steel drums for your storage needs. Learn where to buy, what to look for, and how to avoid common mistakes.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used drums cost 50-80% less than new ones. A new 55-gallon steel drum costs $40-60. Used drums start at $6-7 each.

You get the same storage capacity and durability. Most used drums are cleaned and tested before sale.

Where to Buy Used Drums in Colorado

RePackify (Best Overall Choice)

• Locations: Boulder, Longmont, Fort Collins
• Drum types: Steel drums with tight-head or open-head designs
• Condition: Cleaned and reconditioned
• Price: Starting at $6-7 per drum
• Why choose them:
  • Bulk discounts of 10-20% for orders of 10 or more drums
  • Delivery available for $1-3 per drum
  • Food-grade certification available
  • Pressure-tested drums for safety

What Type of Drum Do You Need?

Tight-Head Drums (Closed Top)

• Best for: Storing liquids
• Why: Sealed design prevents leaks
• Example: Water storage, liquid chemicals

Open-Head Drums (Removable Lid)

• Best for: Storing solids or bulk materials
• Why: Easy access for filling and emptying
• Example: Grain storage, dry chemicals
• Note: Requires clamp ring to secure lid

How to Check Drum Quality

Before You Buy

Look for dents: Small dents are okay, large ones weaken the drum

Check for rust: Surface rust is fine, holes are not

Inspect welds: Look for cracks in seam welds

Ask about cleaning: Confirm previous contents were removed

Food-Grade vs Industrial-Grade

• Food-grade: Safe for storing food or drinking water
• Industrial-grade: Only for non-food items
• Price difference: Food-grade costs $5-10 more per drum

How to Save Money

Buy in Bulk

• 10+ drums: Get 10-20% discount
• Example: 20 drums at $7 each = $140, with 15% discount = $119

Consider Delivery Costs

• Pick up yourself: Save $1-3 per drum
• Delivery: Worth it for large orders (10+ drums)

Time Your Purchase

• Spring/summer: Higher demand, higher prices
• Fall/winter: Lower demand, better deals

Step-by-Step Buying Process

Decide how many drums you need

Choose drum type (tight-head or open-head)

Determine if you need food-grade

Contact RePackify for a quote

Ask about bulk discounts

Arrange pickup or delivery

Inspect drums before final payment

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not checking certification: Always verify food-grade status if storing food
• Ignoring delivery costs: Factor delivery into your budget
• Buying wrong head type: Tight-head for liquids, open-head for solids
• Skipping inspection: Always check drums before buying

Final Tips

Start with RePackify for the best combination of price, quality, and service. They have multiple Colorado locations and offer the reliability you need.

For very tight budgets, check local recycling centers, but plan extra time for cleaning and inspection.

Always buy a few extra drums beyond your immediate needs. Having spares saves money on future delivery charges.