Buy Used Metal Drums in New Orleans

Where to Buy Used Metal Drums in New Orleans: Save Money and Help the Environment

What you'll get from this guide: Find the best places to buy used metal drums in New Orleans, learn what to look for, and discover how to save money while being eco-friendly.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums offer three main benefits:

• Save money - Cost 50-70% less than new drums
• Help the environment - Keep drums out of landfills
• Get unique character - Each drum has its own history and look

People use these drums for:

• Rainwater collection
• Garden planters
• Art projects
• Industrial storage
• Food preparation (if food-grade)

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in New Orleans

Recycling Centers and Scrap Yards

These places get drums from businesses and industries. You'll find the best selection here.

What to expect:

• Drums range from $10-50 each
• Selection changes weekly
• Most drums are 30-55 gallons
• Call ahead to check availability

Example locations:

• Elmwood area (near airport)
• Mid City
• S. Claiborne Avenue
• French Quarter area
• Elysian Fields

Packaging Suppliers

These businesses sell cleaner, inspected drums. Perfect if you need drums for food or chemicals.

What you get:

• Cleaned and inspected drums
• Matching lids available
• Standardized sizes
• Higher prices but better quality

Best for: Food storage, chemical storage, professional use

Industrial Material Suppliers

These stores sell drums alongside other metal products. They can also modify drums for you.

Services offered:

• Custom cutting
• Reshaping
• Fast turnaround
• Professional modifications

Best for: Custom projects, unusual sizes, quick delivery

Sustainable Building Material Stores

Community-focused stores that sell reclaimed materials. Great for eco-conscious buyers.

What makes them special:

• Support local sustainability
• Unique, character-rich drums
• Quality assessed for safety
• Often cheaper than commercial suppliers

Best for: Art projects, landscaping, home use

What to Check Before Buying

Step 1: Ask About Previous Contents

• Food-grade drums: Must have held only food products
• Industrial drums: May contain chemical residues
• Unknown history: Only use for non-food projects

Red flags: Strong chemical smells, visible residue, no information about previous use

Step 2: Inspect Physical Condition

Check for:

• Rust holes (deal breaker)
• Deep dents (weakens the drum)
• Damaged rims (won't seal properly)
• Surface rust (okay if you plan to paint)

Example: A drum with surface rust works fine for a garden planter but not for food storage.

Step 3: Measure and Test

• Standard 55-gallon drums: 23 inches wide, 35 inches tall
• Test lids to ensure they close properly
• Check if your equipment can handle the drum size

Step 4: Know the Rules

• Food storage: Must meet food safety standards
• Chemical storage: Needs proper labeling
• Transportation: May require special permits

Other Ways to Find Drums

Online Options

• Local classified ads
• Community Facebook groups
• Neighborhood apps

Tips:

• Always inspect before buying
• Ask detailed questions about condition
• Negotiate on price and pickup

Community Networks

• Maker spaces
• Garden clubs
• Art groups
• Tool libraries

Benefits: Often cheaper, builds community connections

Money-Saving Tips

Buy in bulk - Many sellers offer discounts for multiple drums

Check regularly - New inventory arrives weekly

Consider condition - Rusty drums cost less but work fine for some projects

Ask about delivery - Sometimes included in bulk purchases

Join communities - Members often share deals and group buys

Example: Choosing the Right Drum

For rainwater collection:

• Any clean drum works
• Surface rust is okay
• Check for holes carefully
• Price range: $15-30

For food storage:

• Must be food-grade
• No chemical history
• Perfect condition required
• Price range: $40-75

For art projects:

• Unique character preferred
• Condition less important
• Interesting dents add character
• Price range: $10-25

Final Thoughts

New Orleans has many options for buying used metal drums. Start with recycling centers for the best selection and prices. Check packaging suppliers if you need food-grade quality. Visit sustainable stores to support your community.

Remember: Always inspect drums carefully, ask about their history, and choose based on your intended use. With patience and knowledge, you'll find great drums while saving money and helping the environment.

Next steps: Visit 2-3 different suppliers, compare prices, and build relationships with sellers for future purchases.