Buy Used Metal Drums in Daytona Beach

How to Find Quality Used Metal Drums in Daytona Beach Without Overpaying

What you'll get from this guide: Save money on metal drums, know where to shop, avoid buying damaged containers, and understand what makes a good deal.

Finding used metal drums in Daytona Beach is easier than you think. You can save 30-50% compared to buying new drums while getting containers that work just as well.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

A new 55-gallon steel drum costs $100-150. A used one in good condition costs $50-80. That's real money saved, especially if you need several drums.

Used drums work great for:

• Storing rainwater for your garden
• Collecting waste oil at your shop
• Making planters or fire barrels
• Storing dry goods like animal feed

What to Look For When Buying

Drum Condition

Good condition drums have:

• Smooth, dent-free sides
• Working lid that seals tight
• Clean inside with no strong odors
• All original caps and plugs

Avoid drums with:

• Rust holes (small rust spots are okay)
• Dents that affect the shape
• Missing lids or caps
• Strong chemical smells

Size and Type

Most drums are 55 gallons - about the size of a large trash can. They come in two types:

Open-top drums: The whole lid comes off. Good for storing solid materials like grain or making planters.

Closed drums: Only have small openings on top. Better for liquids since they seal completely.

Previous Contents

Ask what was stored in the drum before. Some are easier to clean than others:

Easy to clean: Food products, soap, water-based liquids Harder to clean: Oil, paint, chemicals

Food-grade drums cost more but are safest if you'll store anything you might consume.

How Much Should You Pay?

Reconditioned drums (cleaned and repainted): $50-80 Used but not reconditioned: $30-50
Salvage drums from scrap yards: $20-35

Buy multiple drums at once to get better prices. Many sellers give discounts for orders of 5 or more.

Getting Your Drums Home

A 55-gallon drum is about 3 feet tall and weighs 35-40 pounds empty. Most fit in pickup trucks, but you might need help loading them.

Some suppliers offer delivery for $25-50 depending on how many you buy and how far they need to drive.

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy if:

• The seller won't let you inspect drums first
• Prices seem too good to be true (might be stolen)
• Drums have hazardous material warning labels
• The seller can't tell you what was stored inside

Walk away from drums that:

• Have holes or cracks
• Smell strongly of chemicals
• Are missing important parts
• Look like they've been in a fire

Smart Buying Tips

Time your purchase: Buy in fall or winter when demand is lower. Spring brings higher prices as people start garden projects.

Bring a flashlight: Shine it inside drums to check for damage you can't see from the outside.

Test the seal: For closed drums, make sure the lid closes tight. A loose seal means the drum won't work for liquids.

Ask about guarantees: Some dealers let you return drums within a few days if you find problems.

Making the Most of Your Purchase

Once you have your drums, clean them thoroughly before use. Dish soap and water work for most applications. For stubborn residues, try degreasing solution.

Store drums upright on pallets or blocks to keep them off the ground. This prevents rust from moisture underneath.

Bottom Line

Buying used metal drums in Daytona Beach can save you significant money if you know what to look for. Start with reputable drum suppliers if quality matters most, or try scrap yards if you want the lowest prices. Always inspect before buying, ask about previous contents, and factor in delivery costs when comparing prices.

The key is matching the drum condition to your needs. A slightly dented drum works fine for collecting rainwater, but choose a reconditioned one if you're storing food products.