Buy Used Metal Drums in Boulder

Save Money on Quality Used Metal Drums in Boulder - Complete Buyer's Guide

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find reliable used metal drums in Boulder, how much they cost, and what to check before buying. Save hundreds of dollars compared to buying new drums.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums cost 70-80% less than new ones. A new 55-gallon steel drum costs $40-60. A good used one costs $5-15.

You get the same storage capacity. You help the environment by reusing. You save money for other business needs.

What Are Metal Drums Used For?

People use 55-gallon metal drums for:

• Storing liquids like oil, water, or chemicals
• Moving materials from one place to another
• Collecting rainwater
• Making furniture or planters
• Storing animal feed

Most drums are made of steel. They come in two types:

• Open-head drums have removable lids (good for thick liquids or solids)
• Tight-head drums are sealed (good for thin liquids)

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Boulder

RePackify - Your Best Option

RePackify sells quality used drums that are cleaned and tested. They deliver to Boulder and offer bulk discounts.

Why choose RePackify:

• Drums are pressure-tested for safety
• Clean and ready to use
• Fast delivery in Colorado
• Bulk discounts available
• Customer support to help you choose

Pricing: Starting around $6-7 per drum, depending on condition and quantity.

What to Check Before Buying

1. Look for Damage

• Rust: Small rust spots are okay. Avoid drums with holes from rust
• Dents: Small dents are fine. Large dents may weaken the drum
• Seams: Check where metal pieces join. They should be solid

2. Check the Inside

• Smell the drum. Strong chemical odors may never come out
• Look for stains or buildup
• Ask what was stored in the drum before

3. Test the Lid

• Open-head drums: Make sure the lid fits tight
• Tight-head drums: Check that caps screw on properly

4. Know the Rules

If you're storing food or drinking water, make sure the drum is food-grade certified. For chemicals, check that the drum meets safety standards.

How Much Should You Pay?

Boulder area prices (2024):

• RePackify: $6-7 per drum (reconditioned)
• Industrial suppliers: $8-15 per drum

Bulk discounts: Order 10+ drums to save 10-20% per drum.

Delivery costs: Usually $1-3 per drum, depending on distance.

Getting Your Drums Delivered

Small Orders (1-5 drums)

• Pick up yourself with a truck
• Use local delivery service
• Some suppliers deliver for small fee

Large Orders (10+ drums)

• Most suppliers offer free or cheap delivery
• Drums come on pallets
• You may need a forklift to unload

Simple Buying Process

Decide how many drums you need

Choose between open-head or tight-head

Set your budget

Contact RePackify for a quote

Compare with local recycling centers if you want cheaper options

Inspect drums before final purchase

Arrange delivery or pickup

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy drums that:

• Have holes or deep rust
• Smell strongly of chemicals
• Were used for hazardous materials (unless you know how to handle them safely)
• Cost more than $15 each (unless they're specialty drums)
• Come from sellers who won't let you inspect them first

Making the Most of Your Purchase

Cleaning Your Drums

• Rinse with water first
• Use dish soap for light cleaning
• For stubborn residue, use baking soda paste
• Always rinse thoroughly after cleaning

Storage Tips

• Keep drums in dry areas to prevent rust
• Store with lids slightly loose to prevent pressure buildup
• Stack carefully - drums can be heavy when full

Bottom Line

Boulder offers good options for buying used metal drums. RePackify gives you the best balance of quality and price with tested, clean drums. Local recycling centers offer the cheapest prices if you're willing to do more work yourself.

Start with RePackify if you want reliable drums with support. Check recycling centers if you want the lowest prices and have time to clean and repair drums yourself.

Next step: Contact RePackify for a quote on the drums you need. Ask about bulk discounts if you're buying more than 10 drums.