Buy Used Metal Drums in Hawaii

Save Money on Metal Drums in Hawaii: Your Complete Buying Guide

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to find quality used metal drums in Hawaii for 50-70% less than new ones, where to shop, what to look for, and how to stay safe.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums in Hawaii?

You can save serious money. Here's what you gain:

• Cut costs by half: Used drums cost 50-70% less than new ones
• Skip shipping fees: Buy locally instead of paying ocean freight
• Help the environment: Reuse steel instead of creating waste
• Get what you need fast: Local pickup beats waiting for delivery

A new 55-gallon drum costs around $50. You can find used ones starting at $15. That's real savings.

What Are Metal Drums?

Metal drums are steel containers, usually 55 gallons. People use them for:

• Storing liquids like oil or water
• Collecting rainwater
• Industrial storage
• Art projects and planters

Two main types exist:

Open-head drums:

• Have removable lids
• Good for solids or thick liquids
• Easier to clean

Tight-head drums:

• Have fixed tops with small openings
• Better for liquids
• More secure storage

Drum Conditions Explained

Used drums come in different conditions. Know what you're buying:

Used (as-is):

• Cheapest option: $15-25
• Not cleaned or tested
• Sold with no guarantees
• Good for non-critical uses

Reconditioned:

• Mid-range price: $35-60
• Professionally cleaned and tested
• Gaskets and seals checked
• Better for important uses

New:

• Highest price: $50+
• Never used
• Full warranties
• Best for food or chemicals

Where to Find Used Drums in Hawaii

On Oahu

Hardware stores:

• Check local hardware suppliers in Honolulu
• Ask about used inventory
• Prices start around $30
• You can inspect before buying

Recycling centers:

• Often have drums from businesses
• Call ahead to check availability
• Bulk discounts available

On Big Island

Scrap metal dealers:

• Best prices: $15-25 for used drums
• Good selection in Hilo and Kailua-Kona
• Often run auctions
• Ask about pickup services

Recycling centers:

• Regular turnover of drums
• Environmental rebates sometimes available
• Call multiple locations

Online Options : RePackify

• Lists drums in Ewa Beach and Hilo
• Handles bulk orders (up to 70 drums)
• Online quotes available
• Reliable service

What to Look For When Buying

Check the drum's history:

• What was stored inside?
• Food-grade materials are safest
• Avoid drums that held chemicals unless you know what they were

Inspect the condition:

• Look for rust or dents
• Check that lids fit properly
• Test gaskets and seals
• Make sure it doesn't leak

Verify ratings if needed:

• UN ratings matter for hazardous materials
• Food-grade ratings needed for water storage
• Ask the seller about certifications

Safety and Handling Tips

Moving drums safely:

• Empty drum weighs 40 pounds
• Full drum weighs over 400 pounds
• Use proper equipment like dollies
• Never lift heavy drums manually

Before you use:

• Clean thoroughly with soap and water
• Rinse multiple times
• Let dry completely
• Check for chemical residues

Legal and Environmental Rules

For water storage:

• Use only food-grade drums
• Clean before first use
• Check local water collection rules

For hazardous materials:

• Need proper UN ratings
• Follow DOT regulations
• Verify recent testing dates

Environmental benefits:

• Keeps steel out of landfills
• Reduces need for new manufacturing
• Supports Hawaii's sustainability goals

Pricing Guide

Big Island (Hilo area):

• Used: $15-20
• Reconditioned: $35-40
• New: $50+

Oahu (Honolulu area):

• Used: $25-30
• Reconditioned: $45-60
• New: $50+

Money-saving tips:

• Buy 5+ drums for bulk discounts
• Check multiple sources
• Consider "as-is" for non-critical uses
• Factor in pickup/delivery costs

Common Questions Answered

Q: Are used drums safe for drinking water?

A: Only if they're food-grade and properly cleaned. Ask about previous contents.

Q: How long do steel drums last?

A: Decades if properly maintained. Check for rust regularly.

Q: Can I ship drums between islands?

A: Yes, but barge shipping adds $10-30 per drum. Local buying is cheaper.

Q: What's the difference between UN ratings?

A: UN1A1 and UN1A2 are for hazardous materials. Regular storage doesn't need these.

Your Action Plan

Decide what you need: Open-head or tight-head? Food-grade or regular?

Set your budget: Factor in pickup/delivery costs

Contact 3+ suppliers: Compare prices and availability

Inspect before buying: Check condition and ask about history

Plan your pickup: Arrange proper equipment for transport

Clean thoroughly: Prepare drums for your intended use

Final Thoughts

Buying used metal drums in Hawaii makes financial sense. You'll save money, help the environment, and get containers that work just as well as new ones.

Start with local scrap dealers and recycling centers for the best prices. Always inspect drums yourself when possible. Clean them thoroughly before use. With some research and planning, you'll find quality drums at great prices.

Remember: The best deal is the one that meets your needs safely and legally. Don't compromise on safety to save a few dollars.