Buy Used Metal Drums in Rexburg

Save Money and Help the Environment: Your Complete Guide to Buying Used Metal Drums in Rexburg

What you'll get from this guide: You'll learn how to find quality used metal drums in Rexburg for 50-70% less than new ones, where to buy them locally, and how to inspect them safely. You'll also discover creative ways to reuse drums and stay within Idaho's environmental laws.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums offer three main benefits:

• Save serious money - Used drums cost $25-$70 vs $80-$120 for new ones
• Help the environment - Reusing drums reduces waste and saves resources
• Get proven durability - Steel drums last for decades with proper care

What Are Metal Drums Good For?

Metal drums work great for:

Storage needs:

• Rainwater collection
• Feed storage for farms
• Chemical storage (non-hazardous)
• Oil and lubricants

Creative projects:

• Barbecue smokers
• Compost bins
• Planters for gardens
• Furniture projects

Business use:

• Shipping materials
• Waste collection
• Workshop storage

Types of Metal Drums You'll Find

Two Main Styles

Open-head drums:

• Removable lid with clamps
• Easy to fill and clean
• Best for solid materials like grain or powder
• Example: Perfect for storing chicken feed on a farm

Tight-head drums:

• Sealed top with small openings
• Better for liquids
• Leak-resistant
• Example: Ideal for storing motor oil in a shop

Common Sizes

Most drums you'll find are 55-gallon size:

• 22.5 inches wide
• 33.5 inches tall
• Weighs about 40 pounds empty

You might also find 30-gallon or 85-gallon drums for special needs.

Where to Buy Used Drums in Rexburg

Local Hardware Stores

• Check general hardware stores for rotating inventory
• Usually have smaller drums and barrels
• Good for DIY projects

Welding Supply Shops

• Often stock industrial containers
• Staff can help with fittings and seals
• Better selection of 55-gallon drums

Recycling Centers

• University recycling centers sometimes have drums
• Check the local transfer station
• Prices vary widely

Metal Fabrication Shops

• May sell repurposed drums from projects
• Can modify drums for your needs
• Good source for custom work

How Much You'll Pay

Typical prices in Rexburg:

• Basic used drum: $25-$40
• Reconditioned drum: $40-$60
• Food-grade drum: $50-$70

Money-saving tips:

• Buy multiple drums at once for discounts
• Check recycling centers first for best deals
• Ask about bulk pricing for 8+ drums

How to Inspect a Used Drum

Before you buy, check these things:

Outside inspection:

• Look for rust, dents, or holes
• Check if the drum sits flat
• Make sure handles aren't bent

Inside inspection:

• Shine a flashlight inside
• Look for rust or coating damage
• Smell for chemical odors

Safety check:

• Never buy drums that held hazardous chemicals
• Ask what was stored in the drum before
• When in doubt, don't buy it

Getting Your Drums Home

You'll need:

• Pickup truck or trailer
• Straps or rope to secure drums
• Help lifting (drums can weigh 40+ pounds empty)

Safety tips:

• Always transport drums upright if they contain liquids
• Secure drums so they won't roll around
• Get help - don't try to lift heavy drums alone

Idaho Laws You Should Know

Burning regulations:

• You can't burn plastics, painted wood, or chemicals in drum burn barrels
• Only burn natural materials like yard waste
• Check local fire restrictions before burning

Disposal rules:

• Take old drums to the county transfer station
• Don't just throw them in regular trash
• Call the city waste department with questions

Fixing and Maintaining Your Drums

Simple maintenance:

• Clean drums thoroughly before first use
• Check for rust spots every few months
• Keep drums dry when not in use

When to get professional help:

• If you find small holes or cracks
• For pressure testing tight-head drums
• RePackify offers reconditioning services if you need expert help

Creative Ways to Use Old Drums

For the farm:

• Cut drums in half for water troughs
• Use as compost bins with holes drilled in sides
• Store grain or feed (make sure drums are food-safe)

For the home:

• Cut open-head drums for large planters
• Make rain barrels with spigot attachments
• Create outdoor furniture with proper cutting and welding

For business:

• Use as waste containers in workshops
• Store non-hazardous bulk materials
• Transport materials between job sites

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy drums that:

• Have strong chemical smells
• Show signs of hazardous material labels
• Have holes or major rust damage
• Come from unknown sources

Warning signs:

• Seller won't say what was stored in the drum
• Price seems too good to be true
• Drum has official hazardous waste markings

Getting Started: Your First Drum Purchase

Step 1: Decide what you need the drum for

Step 2: Choose open-head or tight-head style

Step 3: Visit 2-3 local suppliers to compare prices

Step 4: Inspect drums carefully before buying

Step 5: Plan your transportation

Step 6: Clean the drum thoroughly before use

Final Thoughts

Buying used metal drums in Rexburg is a smart way to save money and help the environment. Start with local hardware stores and welding suppliers for the best selection. Always inspect drums carefully, and don't be afraid to ask questions about what was stored in them before.

Remember: A good used drum can last for decades with proper care. Take your time choosing the right one, and you'll have a useful container for years to come.