Find Quality Used Metal Drums in Bellevue, Nebraska
What you'll get from this guide: You'll discover exactly where to buy reliable used 55-gallon steel drums in Bellevue, what to expect for pricing ($25-$40 per drum), and how to choose the right drum for your needs.
Why Buy Used Metal Drums?
Used metal drums cost 50-70% less than new ones. You get the same functionality for projects like:
- Rain water collection
- Storage containers
- DIY BBQ smokers
- Workshop organization
Where to Buy in Bellevue
RePackify Marketplace
- What they offer: Reconditioned 55-gallon carbon-steel drums
- Location: Drums stored in metro Omaha area
- Stock: 66 drums available, both open-head and tight-head options
- How to buy: Request a quote through their listing form
- Pricing: Around $30 per drum (quote-based)
- Delivery: They arrange shipping or you can pick up locally
Local Industrial Suppliers
- Location: Omaha area (11 miles from Bellevue)
- What they offer: New and reconditioned steel drums
- Options: Open-head, tight-head, lined and unlined
- Pricing: About $25 for used tight-head drums
- How to buy: Call during weekday business hours or walk-in pickup
Online Surplus Exchanges
- Shipping: From surrounding states (Missouri, Iowa)
- What they offer: Mixed-grade 55-gallon steel drums
- Quantities: Palletized lots of 40-80 drums
- Pricing: $18-$35 per drum before shipping costs
- Best for: Bulk purchases
Choosing the Right Drum
Head Style (Pick Based on Your Use)
- Tight-head: Has two 2-inch holes, perfect for liquids, leak-tested
- Open-head: Removable lid, better for solids or rain collection projects
Interior Lining
- Lined drums: Resist rust, good for food or water storage
- Unlined drums: Bare steel, works for BBQ smokers but needs thorough cleaning
Example: Rain Barrel Project
For collecting rainwater, choose an open-head drum with a lined interior. This makes it easy to install a spigot and keeps your water clean.
What You'll Pay
Typical Costs in Bellevue Area:
- Used tight-head drums: $25-$30
- Open-head drums with lid: $30-$40
- Shipping costs: $150-$250 per pallet (holds 4 drums)
- Money-saving tip: Pick up with a trailer instead of paying for delivery
Minimum Orders:
- RePackify: Often requires 10-drum minimum for shipping
- Local suppliers: Usually sell individual drums
Safety Before You Buy
Ask these questions:
- What was stored in this drum before? Food-grade only if you'll use it for water
- Is the seller certified? Look for proper reconditioning credentials
- Are the seals good? Bad gaskets mean extra replacement costs
Safety Example:
If you're making a BBQ smoker, the drum must be completely cleaned and vented before cutting. Never cut into a drum that held chemicals or unknown substances.
How to Get Your Drums
Step 1: Check Current Stock
Contact suppliers to confirm what's available and current pricing.
Step 2: Compare Options
Get quotes from RePackify if you need multiple drums or delivery to Bellevue.
Step 3: Plan Transportation
- Bring tie-downs and a vehicle rated for 450 pounds per drum
- Consider renting a trailer for multiple drums
Step 4: Keep Documentation
Save any certificates or stamps for future shipping or resale.
Final Tips
- Most Bellevue retailers don't stock drums on-site
- Buying reconditioned drums is safer than random classified ads
- Both RePackify and local suppliers offer drum recycling programs
- Always verify the drum's previous contents before purchase
With these two main sources, you'll find quality used metal drums at fair prices without the guesswork.