Buy Used Metal Drums in New Hampshire

How to Buy Used Metal Drums in New Hampshire and Save Money

What you'll learn: Where to find quality used metal drums, how to inspect them, and what rules you must follow. This guide will help you save money while getting the storage containers you need.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums cost less than new ones. You help the environment by reusing materials. Most used drums work just as well as new ones if you know what to look for.

For example, a new 55-gallon steel drum might cost $80-120. A used one in good condition costs $20-40. That's real savings, especially if you need several drums.

Where to Find Used Metal Drums

Local Drum Dealers

These businesses specialize in drums. They know what they're selling and can help you choose the right type.

• 55-gallon drums (most common size)
• Open-head drums (removable lid)
• Tight-head drums (sealed top with small openings)
• Bulk pricing for large orders
• On-site inspection help

Recycling Centers

Recycling centers often have used drums from local businesses. Prices are usually lower, but selection varies.

Online Sources

RePackify lists used 55-gallon metal drums in Amherst, Nashua, and Goffstown. You can request quotes online.

Other online marketplaces connect buyers and sellers, but verify details before buying.

Types of Used Metal Drums

Basic Drum Types

• Open-head drums: Removable lid with locking ring. Easy to fill and clean.
• Tight-head drums: Sealed top with small bungs. Better for liquids.

Common Sizes

• 55 gallons (most popular)
• 30 gallons (easier to handle)
• 20 gallons (good for small jobs)

What the Drum Held Before

This matters for safety and cleaning:

• Food-grade: Safest, easiest to clean
• Industrial chemicals: Need special cleaning
• Paint or solvents: May have residue

How to Inspect Used Drums

Visual Check

Look for these problems:

• Dents (especially near seams)
• Rust spots
• Cracks or holes
• Damaged threads on bungs

Smell Test

Strong odors mean the drum wasn't cleaned properly. This could be dangerous or affect what you store.

Check the Bottom

Turn the drum over. The bottom often shows damage first.

Legal Rules You Must Follow

Hazardous Materials

If a drum held dangerous chemicals, you need special paperwork. This includes:

• Safety Data Sheets (what was in the drum)
• Cleaning certificates
• DOT compliance labels

Transportation

Moving drums that held hazardous materials requires special permits and labeling.

Simple Rule

Buy drums that held food products when possible. They're safer and easier to use.

Pricing and Logistics

What Affects Price

• Condition (better condition costs more)
• Size (55-gallon drums are most common and cheapest)
• Quantity (buying more gets better prices)
• What it held before (food-grade costs more)

Delivery Options

• Pick up yourself: Cheapest option
• Local delivery: Available from some dealers
• Freight shipping: For large orders

Real Example

You need 10 drums for storing rainwater. Picking them up yourself from a recycling center might cost $200. Having them delivered could add $100-200 in shipping costs.

Preparing Drums for Use

Cleaning Steps

Remove all labels and residue

Rinse with water

Use appropriate cleaner for previous contents

Let dry completely

Inspect again

When to Get Professional Help

Call professionals if the drum held:

• Acids or strong chemicals
• Paint or solvents
• Unknown substances

Safety First

Personal Protection

When handling used drums:

• Wear gloves
• Use eye protection
• Work in ventilated area
• Don't stick your head inside drums

Storage Tips

• Keep drums upright
• Store in dry location
• Keep away from heat sources
• Label what you put in them

Environmental Benefits

Buying used drums helps the environment by:

• Reducing waste in landfills
• Saving energy used to make new drums
• Cutting down on mining for new steel

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying without inspecting first
• Ignoring what the drum held before
• Forgetting about transportation rules
• Not cleaning properly before use

Getting Started

Decide how many drums you need

Choose what size works best

Call local recycling centers first (usually cheapest)

Inspect before buying

Plan for transportation

Clean thoroughly before use

When to Buy New Instead

Sometimes new drums are worth the extra cost:

• You need food-grade certification
• The drums will hold hazardous materials
• You can't find good used ones locally
• Time is more important than money

Final Tips

Start small. Buy one or two drums first to learn the process. This helps you understand what to look for and how much work is involved.

Ask questions. Good sellers will answer questions about condition, previous contents, and cleaning.

Plan ahead. Good used drums sell quickly, especially food-grade ones.

Remember: The goal is finding drums that work for your needs at a fair price. Don't rush the process, and always prioritize safety over savings.