Buy Used Metal Drums in Kenner

How to Buy Quality Used Metal Drums in Kenner, LA (And Save Money)

What you'll gain from reading this: Learn where to find reliable used metal drums in Kenner, how to check their quality, and save up to 60% compared to buying new drums.

Why Choose Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums offer three main benefits:

• Cost savings: Pay 40-60% less than new drums
• Environmental impact: Reduce waste and support recycling
• Quick availability: Get drums faster than ordering new ones

Most used 55-gallon steel drums last for years with proper care. They work well for storing oils, chemicals, water, and dry materials.

What Types of Used Drums Are Available?

You'll find two main types in Kenner:

Open-head drums:

• Have removable lids
• Good for thick liquids and solid materials
• Easy to clean and inspect inside
• Common uses: paint, adhesives, food products

Tight-head drums:

• Have fixed tops with small openings
• Better for thin liquids
• Seal tighter to prevent spills
• Common uses: oils, solvents, water

Where to Find Used Drums in Kenner

Local suppliers:

• RePackify specializes in reconditioned 55-gallon steel drums
• Offers both open-head and tight-head options
• Provides bulk discounts and local delivery
• Documents cleaning and testing processes

Other sources:

• Industrial supply companies
• Manufacturing facilities (check their waste departments)
• Environmental services firms
• Online marketplaces (but inspect before buying)

How to Check Drum Quality

Before you buy, examine these key areas:

Outside inspection:

• Look for dents, rust, or holes
• Check the rim where the lid sits
• Test if the drum rolls straight
• Inspect the bottom for damage

Inside inspection:

• Use a flashlight to check for rust or residue
• Smell for strong chemical odors
• Look for scratches or pitting
• Check that surfaces are clean

Documentation to request:

• Cleaning certificates
• Previous contents information
• Test results if available
• Photos of the interior

What to Ask Before Buying

Smart buyers ask these questions:

What was stored in the drum previously?

How was it cleaned?

Are there any dents or repairs?

Can I inspect the drums before purchase?

What's your return policy?

Do you offer delivery?

Are there bulk discounts available?

Getting Your Drums Delivered

For small quantities (1-10 drums):

• Most suppliers offer pickup truck delivery
• Costs typically $25-50 in Kenner area
• Schedule delivery during business hours

For large quantities (50+ drums):

• Truck delivery with lift gate service
• May require forklift at your location
• Plan for proper storage space

Reconditioning and Maintenance

Simple maintenance you can do:

• Rinse with water after each use
• Check gaskets and replace if cracked
• Oil the threads on screw caps
• Store in dry locations

When to get professional reconditioning:

• After 5-10 uses (depends on contents)
• If you see rust starting
• When gaskets won't seal properly
• Before storing food-grade materials

RePackify and other local services can recondition drums on-site, saving you transport costs.

Pricing Guide

Typical prices in Kenner:

• Good condition used drums: $15-25 each
• Reconditioned drums: $25-35 each
• Bulk orders (50+): 10-20% discount
• New drums for comparison: $45-65 each

Prices vary based on:

• Drum condition
• Previous contents
• Quantity ordered
• Delivery distance

What to Do When Drums Wear Out

Recycling options:

• Contact local metal recyclers
• Use supplier buy-back programs
• RePackify offers competitive buy-back rates
• Some programs pay $5-10 per drum

Before recycling:

• Clean thoroughly
• Remove all labels
• Check local regulations
• Get recycling receipts for tax purposes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't buy drums that:

• Previously held unknown chemicals
• Have strong odors you can't identify
• Show signs of leaking
• Come without any documentation

Don't forget to:

• Check local regulations for your intended use
• Plan for proper storage and handling
• Budget for cleaning supplies
• Consider insurance requirements

Getting Started

Your first purchase:

Start with 2-3 drums to test quality

Choose a reputable supplier like RePackify

Inspect drums thoroughly upon delivery

Keep records of what you store in each drum

Plan your cleaning and maintenance schedule

Building a relationship:

• Work with one reliable supplier
• Ask about future availability
• Negotiate better prices for repeat business
• Provide feedback on drum quality

Final Tips

Used metal drums in Kenner offer excellent value when you know what to look for. Start with a trusted supplier, inspect carefully, and maintain your drums properly. With good care, used drums can serve your business for years while saving significant money.

The key is finding suppliers who document their cleaning processes and stand behind their products. This approach protects your investment and ensures safe storage for your materials.