Buy Used Metal Drums in Nebraska

Save Money on Storage: Your Guide to Buying Used Metal Drums in Nebraska

What you'll learn: How to find quality used metal drums in Nebraska, save money, and avoid costly mistakes when buying industrial storage containers.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

You can save 40-60% compared to new drums while getting the same storage capacity. Used drums work perfectly for:

• Storing liquids and bulk materials
• Agricultural operations
• Chemical processing
• Food production
• Manufacturing

Nebraska has a strong market for used drums because of our agricultural and industrial economy. Many businesses sell their gently used containers when they upgrade or change operations.

Types of Used Metal Drums Available

Basic Drum Styles

• Open-head drums: Removable lid for easy filling and cleaning
• Tight-head drums: Fixed lid with small openings for liquids

Common Sizes

• 55 gallons (most popular)
• 30 gallons
• 15 gallons
• 5 gallons

Materials

• Carbon steel: Cheapest option, good for most uses
• Stainless steel: More expensive but rust-resistant, great for food

Special Features

• Food-grade lining for safe food storage
• Chemical-resistant coatings
• Stackable designs
• Heavy-duty construction for rough handling

Where to Find Used Drums in Nebraska

RePackify operates warehouses in:

• La Vista
• Omaha

They offer both pickup and delivery options with fast service.

How to Buy Smart

Inspect Before You Buy

Check for:

• Dents or cracks
• Rust spots
• Damaged lids or gaskets
• Strong odors from previous contents

Ask These Questions

• What was stored in the drum previously?
• Has it been cleaned and tested?
• Are replacement parts available?
• What's the return policy?

Money-Saving Tips

• Buy in bulk (100+ drums) for 15% discounts
• Pick up locally to avoid shipping costs
• Compare prices from multiple suppliers
• Consider Grade B drums if you can do basic repairs

Safety and Legal Requirements

What You Must Know

• Drums for hazardous materials need UN/DOT certification
• Food-grade drums require FDA-approved linings
• Some drums need special cleaning before reuse

Common Certifications

• UN 1A2: Standard for steel drums
• Food-grade: Safe for food storage
• Hazmat approved: For dangerous chemicals

Cleaning Requirements

If your drum held chemicals:

• Triple rinse with appropriate solvents
• Pressure wash if needed
• Let dry completely before reuse

Maintenance Tips That Save Money

Basic Care

• Store drums in dry locations
• Check gaskets regularly
• Replace worn bung plugs
• Apply rust inhibitor to bare steel

When to Refurbish

Signs you need professional help:

• Heavy rust or corrosion
• Dented sides affecting stackability
• Worn interior coatings
• Damaged threading on openings

Simple Repairs You Can Do

• Replace rubber gaskets
• Tighten loose fittings
• Clean light surface rust
• Apply protective coatings

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't Buy Without Inspection

• Never buy drums sight unseen
• Watch for hidden damage
• Test all moving parts

Don't Ignore Previous Contents

• Chemical residue can be dangerous
• Food contamination affects safety
• Some materials leave permanent odors

Don't Forget Transportation

• Plan for pickup or delivery costs
• Ensure you have proper lifting equipment
• Consider drum weight when full

Making Your Purchase Decision

Calculate Total Cost

Include:

• Drum price
• Transportation
• Cleaning or refurbishing
• Replacement parts

Compare Your Options

• New drums: Higher cost, guaranteed quality
• Grade A used: Good condition, moderate cost
• Grade B used: Needs work, lowest cost

Consider Your Needs

• How many drums do you need?
• What will you store?
• How long will you use them?
• Do you have refurbishing capabilities?

Getting Started

Your Next Steps

Decide what size and type you need

Contact 3-5 suppliers for quotes

Inspect drums in person when possible

Negotiate bulk pricing

Plan transportation and storage

Questions to Ask Suppliers

• What's included in the price?
• Are drums tested and certified?
• What's your return policy?
• Do you offer delivery?
• Are volume discounts available?

Bottom Line

Buying used metal drums in Nebraska makes financial sense for most businesses. You'll save money while getting reliable storage containers. The key is knowing what to look for, asking the right questions, and working with reputable suppliers.

Start with RePackify's locations in La Vista and Omaha for quality drums and reliable service. Compare prices from local recycling centers for bulk purchases. Always inspect drums before buying and factor in cleaning or refurbishing costs.

With proper care, used drums can serve your business for years while keeping your storage costs low.