Buy Used Metal Drums in Iowa

How to Buy Used Metal Drums in Iowa and Save Money

What you'll learn: How to find quality used metal drums in Iowa, save up to 60% compared to new drums, and avoid common buying mistakes.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums offer three main benefits:

• Save money: Pay 40-60% less than new drums
• Help the environment: Keep steel out of landfills
• Get quality storage: 55-gallon steel drums last for years

Most businesses in Iowa use these drums for:

• Chemical storage
• Oil and liquid transport
• Food processing
• Agricultural products
• Waste collection

What You Need to Know Before Buying

Basic Drum Types

• Open-head drums: Have removable lids, good for solids
• Closed-head drums: Sealed with small openings, best for liquids
• Standard size: 55-gallon drums are most common

Price Ranges in Iowa

Based on current market data:

• Budget drums: $5-6 each (may need cleaning)
• Good condition: $6-8 each (lightly used)
• Reconditioned: $8-10 each (cleaned and certified)

Example: In Ankeny, RePackify offers used 55-gallon drums starting at $5 each when you buy in bulk.

What to Look For When Buying

Inspect the Drum

Check these items before you buy:

• Rust spots: Small spots are okay, heavy rust means problems
• Dents: Minor dents are fine, deep dents weaken the drum
• Seals: Gaskets should be flexible, not cracked
• Previous contents: Ask what was stored inside

Safety Requirements

Different uses need different standards:

• Food storage: Needs FDA-approved cleaning
• Chemical transport: Requires DOT certification
• General storage: Basic cleaning is enough

Example: If you plan to store cooking oil, make sure the drum previously held food-grade materials.

Pricing Factors

What Affects Price

• Location: Rural areas cost more due to shipping
• Condition: Better condition costs more
• Quantity: Bulk orders get discounts
• Certification: Certified drums cost more but meet safety standards

Money-Saving Tips

• Buy in bulk (50+ drums) for up to 30% discount
• Consider drums with minor cosmetic damage
• Pick up yourself to avoid delivery fees
• Buy from areas with oversupply

Legal Requirements

Federal Rules

You must follow these rules:

• DOT markings: Required for hazardous materials
• EPA compliance: For waste storage
• UN ratings: For shipping dangerous goods

What This Means

• Keep certification papers
• Label drums clearly
• Store on proper surfaces
• Train employees on safety

Warning: Penalties for non-compliance can be expensive. Always verify certifications.

Transportation and Storage

Getting Drums to Your Site

• Small orders: Personal pickup works
• Large orders: Arrange freight delivery
• Bulk purchases: Negotiate shipping rates

Safe Storage

Store drums properly:

• Keep on leak-proof surfaces
• Label by previous contents
• Inspect monthly for damage
• Train staff on handling

Environmental Benefits

Why Reusing Helps

Each reused drum:

• Saves 450 pounds of CO2 emissions
• Keeps steel out of landfills
• Reduces need for new steel production
• Creates local recycling jobs

Business Benefits

• Lower costs than new drums
• Meets sustainability goals
• Supports local economy
• Reduces waste disposal fees

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Before You Buy

• Don't skip inspection
• Don't ignore certification needs
• Don't forget shipping costs
• Don't buy wrong drum type

After You Buy

• Don't mix different materials
• Don't skip safety training
• Don't ignore maintenance
• Don't forget proper disposal

Step-by-Step Buying Process

1. Determine Your Needs

• How many drums?
• What will you store?
• Do you need certification?
• What's your budget?

2. Research Suppliers

• Check local options first
• Compare online prices
• Read reviews
• Verify certifications

3. Inspect and Purchase

• See drums in person if possible
• Check all safety features
• Negotiate bulk discounts
• Arrange transportation

4. Set Up Proper Storage

• Prepare storage area
• Train your team
• Create inspection schedule
• Keep records

Best Practices for Success

Smart Buying

• Start with small orders to test suppliers
• Build relationships with reliable dealers
• Keep spare drums for emergencies
• Plan purchases around seasonal pricing

Long-term Strategy

• Track drum condition over time
• Budget for reconditioning costs
• Plan replacement schedules
• Consider leasing for short-term needs

Buying used metal drums in Iowa can save your business significant money while supporting environmental goals. Start with local suppliers for immediate needs, then expand to online platforms for better selection and pricing. Always prioritize safety compliance and proper handling to protect your investment and avoid legal issues.

Next steps:

Calculate how many drums you need

Contact local suppliers for quotes

Check RePackify's platform for pricing

Start with a small test order

Build relationships with reliable suppliers

Remember: The best drum deal combines low price, good condition, and proper certification for your specific use.