How to Buy Used Metal Drums in Mount Washington, Kentucky - Save Money and Help the Environment
What you'll learn: This guide shows you how to find quality used metal drums in Mount Washington, KY, save money compared to buying new, and make environmentally responsible choices.
Why Buy Used Metal Drums?
You get three main benefits:
- Save 40-70% compared to new drums
- Get containers that work just as well as new ones
- Help reduce waste and protect the environment
What Types of Used Metal Drums Can You Find?
Two Main Styles:
- Open-head drums - Have removable lids, good for solid materials
- Closed-head drums - Sealed with screw caps, best for liquids
Common Sizes:
- 55-gallon drums (most popular)
- 30-gallon drums (special order)
- 85-gallon drums (special order)
Materials:
- Carbon steel (most common)
- Stainless steel (more expensive, better for food)
Where to Buy Used Metal Drums
Primary Suppliers:
RePackify
- Specializes in used 55-gallon steel drums
- Offers cleaning and testing services
- Provides both open-head and closed-head options
- Fast ordering and delivery
Secondary Sources:
Recycling Centers
- Washington County Recycling Center
- Bullitt County Recycling Center
- Lower prices but drums may need more work
Salvage Yards
- Often have bulk quantities
- Cheapest option
- You handle cleaning and repairs
How to Inspect Used Drums Before Buying
Check These Things:
- Rust or corrosion - Look for holes or weak spots
- Dents - Make sure they don't affect function
- Lid fit - On open-head drums, check the closure ring
- Screw caps - On closed-head drums, test the threads
- Previous contents - Ask what was stored inside
Safety Questions to Ask:
- What chemicals were in the drum?
- Has it been cleaned professionally?
- Are there any test certificates?
- What cleaning process was used?
Pricing Guide
Typical Price Ranges:
- As-is drums: $15-30 each
- Cleaned drums: $30-50 each
- Fully reconditioned drums: $50-80 each
Ways to Save Money:
- Buy in bulk (10+ drums)
- Accept minor cosmetic damage
- Pick up instead of delivery
- Build relationships with suppliers
Legal Requirements You Must Know
Federal Rules:
- EPA cleaning standards for hazardous materials
- DOT transport requirements
- UN rating requirements for shipping
Kentucky State Rules:
- Environmental protection guidelines
- Spill containment requirements
- Local fire department restrictions
Important: Always ask your supplier about compliance. RePackify handles most regulatory requirements for you.
Transportation and Handling
Equipment You'll Need:
- Forklift or drum dolly
- Protective equipment (gloves, goggles)
- Containment pallets for storage
Delivery Options:
- Pick up yourself (cheapest)
- LTL shipping (small quantities)
- Full truck delivery (large orders)
Environmental Benefits
When you buy used drums, you:
- Reduce steel production by up to 70%
- Keep containers out of landfills
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions
- Support local recycling efforts
Common Uses for Used Metal Drums
Industrial Applications:
- Chemical storage and transport
- Waste collection
- Parts washing stations
- Lubricant storage
Agricultural Uses:
- Rainwater collection
- Feed storage
- Composting containers
- Livestock water systems
Creative Projects:
- Planters and garden containers
- Burn barrels
- Storage for workshops
- Art and craft projects
Red Flags to Avoid
Don't Buy Drums That:
- Smell strongly of chemicals
- Have unknown previous contents
- Show signs of leaking
- Come without any documentation
- Are priced too low (may indicate problems)
Step-by-Step Buying Process
Decide what you need - Open or closed head? How many?
Set your budget - Include delivery and any cleaning costs
Contact suppliers - Get quotes from multiple sources
Inspect drums - Check condition and ask questions
Verify compliance - Make sure drums meet regulations
Arrange transport - Plan pickup or delivery
Prepare your site - Have containment ready
Getting the Best Deal
Negotiation Tips:
- Compare quotes from multiple suppliers
- Ask about bulk discounts
- Consider long-term agreements
- Be flexible on delivery timing
Questions to Ask Suppliers:
- What's included in the price?
- Are there volume discounts?
- What's the return policy?
- Do you offer cleaning services?
- Can you provide compliance documentation?
Conclusion
Buying used metal drums in Mount Washington, KY is a smart way to save money while helping the environment. Focus on finding reputable suppliers like RePackify who can provide clean, tested drums that meet safety requirements.
Remember: The key to success is asking the right questions, inspecting carefully, and working with suppliers who understand regulations and safety requirements.
Start by contacting RePackify for a quote on your specific needs. They'll help you find the right drums at the right price while handling the technical details for you.