Buy Used Metal Drums in Crestwood

Save Money on Storage: Your Guide to Buying Used Metal Drums in Crestwood, KY

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to find quality used metal drums at half the price of new ones, plus discover creative ways to use them for storage, projects, and business needs.

Why Choose Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums offer three main benefits:

• Cost savings: Pay 50-70% less than new drums
• Environmental impact: Reduce waste by reusing steel containers
• Immediate availability: No waiting for manufacturing or shipping

These steel containers originally held chemicals, oils, or food products. After proper cleaning, they're ready for new uses.

Types of Used Metal Drums You'll Find

Open-Head Drums

• What they are: Removable lids with clamp rings
• Best for: Solid materials, powders, granules
• Easy to: Load, unload, and clean
• Example: Storing birdseed, fertilizer, or craft supplies

Tight-Head Drums

• What they are: Fixed tops with screw-on caps
• Best for: Liquids that need secure containment
• Example: Storing heating oil, cleaning solutions, or homemade wine

Common Sizes

• 30-gallon drums: Good for home use
• 55-gallon drums: Industry standard, most versatile
• 85-gallon drums: For large-scale storage needs

What You Can Do with Used Metal Drums

Home and Garden Projects

• Rain collection: One drum collects about 300 gallons from a 1,000 sq ft roof during a 1-inch rain
• Compost bins: Cut openings for air circulation
• Planters: Perfect for deep-root vegetables like tomatoes
• Fire barrels: Cut air holes for safe outdoor heating

Business Storage Solutions

• Bulk materials: Store grains, chemicals, or raw materials
• Waste collection: Organize different types of industrial waste
• Transport: Move liquids or powders safely between locations

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Crestwood

Local Industrial Suppliers

Look for businesses that sell:

• Industrial equipment
• Construction supplies
• Recycling materials

These suppliers often have:

• Drums in various conditions
• Basic cleaning already done
• Ability to inspect before buying

Hardware Stores

Some local hardware stores carry:

• Small quantities (1-5 drums)
• Drums suitable for home projects
• Convenient pickup options

Regional Suppliers

For larger orders:

• Better prices on bulk purchases
• Delivery services available
• More consistent quality standards

How to Choose Quality Used Drums

Visual Inspection Checklist

• Exterior: Look for rust, dents, or holes
• Closure: Check that lids fit tightly
• Interior: Should be clean with no residue
• Labels: Previous contents should be clearly marked

Ask These Questions

• What did the drum originally contain?
• Has it been cleaned and tested?
• Can I see any cleaning certificates?
• What's the return policy if there are problems?

Red Flags to Avoid

• Strong chemical odors
• Rust holes or deep corrosion
• Damaged threads on caps
• Unknown previous contents

Safety and Legal Considerations

Cleaning Requirements

Before using any drum:

• Remove all old labels
• Clean with appropriate solvents
• Rinse thoroughly with water
• Let dry completely

What Not to Store

Never use drums that previously held:

• Pesticides or herbicides
• Unknown chemicals
• Food products (unless food-grade certified)

Disposal Rules

When drums reach end of life:

• Contact local recycling centers
• Steel can be recycled indefinitely
• Some facilities offer free pickup for large quantities

Getting the Best Price

Negotiation Tips

• Buy multiple drums for volume discounts
• Ask about seasonal sales (often in fall/winter)
• Compare prices from 3-4 suppliers
• Consider slightly damaged drums for non-critical uses

Typical Price Ranges

• Good condition 55-gallon drum: $25-40
• Fair condition with minor rust: $15-25
• Bulk purchases (10+ drums): 20-30% discount

Hidden Costs to Consider

• Delivery fees (usually $50-100)
• Cleaning supplies if needed
• Any required testing or certification

Making Your Purchase

Before You Buy

• Measure your storage space
• Plan how you'll transport drums
• Have cleaning supplies ready
• Know exactly what you'll store

During Purchase

• Inspect each drum individually
• Get receipt with supplier contact info
• Ask about warranty or return policy
• Confirm pickup or delivery details

After Purchase

• Clean drums before first use
• Label with new contents clearly
• Store in dry location when not in use
• Keep purchase records for warranty

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying more drums than you need
• Not checking local regulations for your intended use
• Skipping the cleaning step
• Storing incompatible materials together
• Not having proper lifting equipment for 55-gallon drums (they're heavy!)

Getting Started

Your next steps:

Decide what you need drums for

Choose between open-head or tight-head style

Contact 2-3 local suppliers for prices

Inspect drums before buying

Clean thoroughly before use

Used metal drums offer an affordable solution for storage and creative projects. With proper selection and preparation, they'll serve you well for years while keeping money in your pocket and steel out of landfills.