Buy Used Metal Drums in Glenview, IL

Local Sources

• Industrial equipment resellers

• Scrap dealers

• Recycling centers

• Manufacturing facilities rotating inventory

Pro tip: Call around to multiple sources. Prices and availability change weekly.

Types of Used Drums Available

Open-Head Drums

• Removable lids

• Easy loading of solid materials

• Good for powders, granules, parts

Tight-Head Drums

• Fixed tops with small openings

• Better for liquids

• Sealed design prevents spills

Condition Levels

Raw used drums ($5-15 each):

• Minimal cleaning

• May have dents or rust

• Lowest cost option

Reconditioned drums ($35-80 each):

• Professionally cleaned

• Repairs completed

• Safety tested

• UN ratings for hazardous materials

What to Check Before Buying

Physical Condition

• Dents that affect rolling or stacking

• Rust spots or corrosion

• Seam separation or cracks

• Lid fit and seal quality

Interior Condition

• Residue from previous contents

• Coating damage

• Odors that won't wash out

• Contamination concerns

Example: A drum that held motor oil might work for storing sand, but not for collecting rainwater.

Pricing Guide

Factors That Affect Price

• Drum condition

• Order quantity

• Seasonal demand

• Transportation costs

When Prices Go Up

• Spring planting season

• Industrial production peaks

• After major storms (cleanup demand)

Money-Saving Tips

• Buy in bulk for volume discounts

• Purchase during slow seasons

• Consider raw drums for non-critical uses

• Pick up yourself to avoid delivery fees

Transportation and Logistics

What You Need to Know

• Empty 55-gallon steel drums weigh 40+ pounds

• Forklift helpful for large orders

• Standard pickup trucks hold 8-12 drums

• Delivery services available for $50-150

Pickup Planning

• Confirm site access hours

• Check for loading dock availability

• Bring proper tie-down equipment

• Schedule appointments to avoid delays

Safety and Legal Requirements

Environmental Rules

• Clean drums before disposal

• Keep purchase records for audits

• Follow local recycling guidelines

• Understand hazardous waste regulations

When You Need UN-Rated Drums

• Transporting chemicals

• Storing hazardous materials

• Shipping regulated substances

• Meeting insurance requirements

Important: Never use drums that held hazardous materials for food or water storage.

Step-by-Step Buying Process

1. Define Your Needs

• What will you store?

• How many drums do you need?

• What's your budget?

• When do you need them?

2. Research Suppliers

• Check RePackify inventory

• Call local industrial suppliers

• Visit scrap dealers

• Ask other businesses for referrals

3. Inspect Before Buying

• Request photos for online purchases

• Visit in person when possible

• Test lids and seals

• Check for structural damage

4. Negotiate and Purchase

• Get quotes from multiple sources

• Ask about bulk discounts

• Clarify delivery terms

• Confirm return policy

5. Arrange Transportation

• Schedule pickup/delivery

• Prepare loading area

• Have proper equipment ready

• Inspect drums upon arrival

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't Buy Without Inspection

Bad example: Ordering 50 drums online without seeing them first, then finding they're too damaged to use.

Don't Ignore Total Costs

Hidden costs to consider:

• Delivery fees

• Cleaning supplies

• Storage space

• Transportation equipment

Don't Forget Future Needs

Smart approach: Buy extra drums when you find a good deal. You'll use them eventually.

Best Practices for Success

Build Supplier Relationships

• Work with 2-3 reliable sources

• Communicate your ongoing needs

• Pay promptly to maintain good terms

• Provide feedback on drum quality

Monitor Market Conditions

• Check RePackify regularly

• Sign up for supplier newsletters

• Track seasonal price patterns

• Plan purchases during low-demand periods

Maintain Your Drums

• Clean promptly after use

• Store in dry locations

• Inspect regularly for damage

• Repair minor issues quickly

Environmental Benefits You're Creating

Waste Reduction

• Each reused drum saves 40 pounds of steel from landfills

• Reduces mining and manufacturing needs

• Cuts transportation emissions

Circular Economy

• Extends product life cycles

• Creates jobs in reconditioning

• Supports local recycling efforts

Final Tips for Success

Start small: Buy a few drums first to test quality and suppliers.

Keep records: Document purchases for tax benefits and compliance.

Network locally: Connect with other businesses that use drums.

Stay flexible: Be open to different drum types and conditions.

Plan ahead: Don't wait until you're desperate to buy.

Getting Started Today

Your next steps:

Check RePackify for current inventory in Glenview

List your drum requirements (quantity, size, condition)

Contact 2-3 suppliers for quotes

Schedule inspections or request photos

Arrange transportation and storage

Used metal drums offer real savings and environmental benefits. With careful planning and the right suppliers, you'll find quality drums that serve your needs for years to come.