Buy Used Metal Drums in Massachusetts

Save Money and Help the Environment: Your Guide to Buying Used Metal Drums in Massachusetts

What you'll get from this guide: Find reliable suppliers for used metal drums in Massachusetts, understand what to look for when buying, and learn how to get the best deals for your specific needs.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

You'll save 50-70% compared to new drums while helping reduce waste. Used drums work great for:

• Storing rainwater for your garden
• Holding agricultural supplies on farms
• Industrial chemical storage
• DIY projects like barbecue smokers

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Massachusetts

RePackify (Your Best Option)

Locations: Pittsfield, Westfield, Ludlow

What they offer:

• 30-gallon drums (perfect for small gardens)
• 55-gallon drums (most popular size)
• 85-gallon drums (for bigger operations)
• Both open-head and tight-head styles
• Used drums starting at $15 each
• Reconditioned drums with professional cleaning
• New drums from $50
• Custom drum services
• Pickup and recycling programs

Why they're great: Local company with multiple locations, fair prices, and they'll even buy back your old drums.

Other Local Options

Industrial Suppliers:

• Several companies in Chicopee area offer 5-gallon to 330-gallon containers
• Most provide next-day delivery
• Focus on DOT-rated containers for businesses

Recycling Companies:

• Statewide pickup services available
• Free removal of empty drums
• Some offer rebates for food-grade returns
• Good for bulk purchases

Wholesale Dealers:

• Require minimum orders (usually truckload quantities)
• Best prices but only if you need 300+ drums
• Mainly serve large businesses

Understanding Drum Types (Simple Guide)

Open-Head vs. Tight-Head

• Open-head drums: Have removable lids, like a big bucket with a lid you can take off
• Tight-head drums: Sealed with small openings, like a soda bottle but bigger

Common Sizes

• 30 gallons: Good for home rainwater collection
• 55 gallons: Most popular, fits in most pickup trucks
• 85 gallons: For serious storage needs

Materials

• Carbon steel: Strong and cheap, may rust over time
• Stainless steel: Won't rust, costs more, great for food storage
• Plastic: Lighter weight, good for dry materials

What Condition Should You Buy?

Used Drums ($15-25)

• Previously used but cleaned
• May have small dents or surface rust
• Perfect for non-food uses like rainwater collection

Reconditioned Drums ($25-40)

• Professionally cleaned inside and out
• Rust removed and repainted
• Good for food-grade applications

New Drums ($50+)

• Factory fresh
• Best for critical applications
• Worth it if you need perfect condition

How to Choose the Right Supplier

Step 1: Know What You Need

Ask yourself:

• How much liquid will you store?
• Will it touch food or drinking water?
• Do you need to transport hazardous materials?

Step 2: Check Local Options First

• Start with RePackify since they have multiple Massachusetts locations
• Compare prices and services
• Ask about pickup services if you have old drums

Step 3: Verify Quality

• Ask about cleaning processes
• Check for DOT ratings if needed
• Inspect drums in person when possible

Step 4: Calculate Total Cost

• Include delivery fees
• Factor in reconditioning costs
• Consider pickup services for old drums

Money-Saving Tips

Buy in small groups: Some suppliers offer discounts for 5-10 drums

Check for damaged drums: Minor dents don't affect function but lower prices

Time your purchase: End of fiscal year often brings better deals

Ask about trade-ins: Some companies give credit for your old drums

Red Flags to Avoid

• Suppliers who won't tell you what was previously stored
• Drums with strong chemical odors
• Visible holes or deep rust
• No cleaning documentation for food-grade needs
• Prices that seem too good to be true

Getting Started

Start with RePackify: Call their nearest location and explain your needs

Visit in person: See the drums before buying

Start small: Buy one or two drums first to test quality

Build relationships: Good suppliers will help you find exactly what you need

Remember: buying used drums is straightforward once you know what to look for. Focus on reputable local suppliers like RePackify, be clear about your needs, and don't be afraid to ask questions. You'll save money while getting quality containers that last for years.