Buy Used Metal Drums in Amherst, NH
38 listings · Available Listings near Amherst, NH
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38 Metal Drums listings within 500 miles of Amherst, NH. Prices range from $0.01 to $39.56 per unit.
Metal Drums Prices in New Hampshire
What buyers pay by condition
| Condition | Avg. Price | Available Qty |
|---|---|---|
| New | $63.21 | 0 |
| Reconditioned | $41.72 | 0 |
| Used | $12.13 | 3 |
| Damaged (Salvage) | $4.42 | 0 |
Prices reflect current market averages for metal drums in New Hampshire, with 3 units available across all conditions. Metal Drums price index for New Hampshire
About Amherst
Amherst Supplier & Recycler of Used Metal Drums
Save Money and Help the Environment: Your Guide to Buying Used Metal Drums in Amherst, NH
What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find quality used metal drums in Amherst, what to look for when buying, and how to use them safely. You'll save money and reduce waste.
Why Buy Used Metal Drums?
Used metal drums offer three main benefits:
Cost savings - Pay 50-70% less than new drums
Environmental benefit - Keep industrial materials out of landfills
Immediate availability - No waiting for special orders
What to Expect
Most suppliers are within 30 minutes of Amherst. Call ahead to check availability since stock changes frequently.
What to Look for When Buying
Essential Checks
Previous contents - Ask what the drum held before. Food-grade or non-hazardous liquids are best
Structural condition - Look for rust, dents, or welded repairs
Lid and fittings - Make sure the drum seals properly
Cleanliness - Some cleaning is normal, but avoid heavily contaminated drums
Red Flags to Avoid
Drums that held chemicals or hazardous materials
Severe rust or corrosion
Missing or damaged lids
Strong chemical odors that won't wash out
Pricing Guide
Typical price ranges:
Single drums: $30-60 each
Bulk purchases (10+ drums): $20-40 each
Excellent condition: Higher end of range
Fair condition: Lower end of range
Money-saving tips:
Buy in bulk when possible
Check agricultural suppliers for free drums
Look for end-of-season sales at garden centers
Safe Cleaning and Preparation
Basic Cleaning Steps
Remove labels - Use a scraper or heat gun
Wash thoroughly - Use dish soap and hot water
Rinse completely - Remove all soap residue
Neutralize odors - Soak with vinegar or baking soda solution
Dry completely - Prevent rust by air-drying
For Outdoor Use
Rust prevention - Apply primer and paint if needed
Drainage - Drill holes if using for planters
Food safety - Use food-grade liner for water collection
Popular Uses for Used Metal Drums
Simple Projects
Rain water collection barrels
Compost bins
Storage containers
Outdoor planters
More Complex Projects
Fire barrels (with proper ventilation)
Smokers for barbecue
Workshop storage systems
Agricultural feed storage
Safety and Disposal
Safe Handling
Wear gloves when cleaning
Use proper ventilation
Never weld without safety equipment
Keep away from children until cleaned
When You're Done
Recycling - Most scrap metal centers accept steel drums
Resale - Clean drums hold their value well
Donation - Schools and community gardens often want them
Getting Started
Your next steps:
Call local suppliers to check current inventory
Visit with a truck or trailer for transport
Inspect drums before buying
Plan your cleaning and preparation time
Questions to ask suppliers:
What did the drums previously contain?
Are lids included?
Do you offer delivery?
What's your return policy?
Remember: A good used drum will last for years with proper care. Take time to find the right supplier and inspect drums carefully. Your investment in quality will pay off in durability and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are standard 55-gallon drum dimensions?
A closed-head 55-gallon steel drum is 22.5" in diameter and 33.5" tall and weighs 38 to 48 lbs empty; the open-head version is about 34.75" tall because of the bolt ring and weighs 45 to 55 lbs. A 30-gallon drum is 19" x 28.5" (22 to 30 lbs) and a 16-gallon drum 15" x 26.5" (15 to 20 lbs). The 85-gallon overpack, 27" x 39", is for containing a damaged drum.
What is the difference between open-head and tight-head drums?
A tight-head drum has a sealed top with 2" and 3/4" bungs and is for liquids. An open-head drum has a removable lid held by a bolt ring or lever lock and is for solids, pastes, and anything you scoop out. Lined drums add an epoxy or phenolic interior for corrosive or food-grade contents.
What is a reconditioned drum?
A reconditioned drum has been professionally cleaned, tested, and certified for reuse, and is the grade to buy when the drum will hold product again, provided the new contents are compatible with what it held before and any hazmat use has a valid UN marking from a DOT-certified reconditioner. Used drums are sold as-is, with prior contents disclosed when the seller knows them, and suit non-critical storage. Damaged drums are sold for scrap value only; grade says nothing about head type, so check the 33.5" closed-head or 34.75" open-head height separately.
Can a used steel drum hold food or drinking water?
Only a lined, reconditioned drum that was previously food-grade and that the reconditioner certifies for food or potable use; the grade alone is not enough. An unlined drum that held oil, solvents, or chemicals cannot be made food-safe by cleaning. Listings state the last contents when the seller knows them, so filter by prior contents before buying a 55-gallon drum for potable use.
How many drums fit on a truck?
Empty 55-gallon drums: a 53-foot dry van carries 104 single-tier on 26 drum pallets of 4, 208 double-stacked, or 200 or more loose and tight-packed. Filled with water, weight governs: about 84 drums on 21 pallets reach the 45,000-lb payload. An 85-gallon overpack is 27" across, so only 2 fit on a 48" drum pallet.