Buy Used Metal Drums in Winston Salem

How to Buy Quality Used Metal Drums in Winston-Salem and Save Money

What you'll learn: Find reliable suppliers, choose the right drum type, avoid common mistakes, and save up to 60% compared to new drums.

Are you looking for metal drums for your business but want to avoid the high cost of new ones? Used metal drums offer the same quality and durability at a fraction of the price. This guide shows you exactly how to find and buy the best used metal drums in Winston-Salem.

Why Choose Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums give you these benefits:

• Save 40-60% compared to new drums
• Get the same strength and durability
• Help the environment by reusing materials
• Available immediately (no waiting for manufacturing)
• Perfect for most industrial and commercial uses

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Winston-Salem

RePackify - Your Local Expert

RePackify is Winston-Salem's top supplier for used metal drums. They offer:

• 30, 55, and 85-gallon steel drums
• Both open-head and closed-head types
• Cleaned and reconditioned drums
• Full and partial truckload deliveries
• Free quotes within 24 hours

Online Marketplaces

You can also find drums through:

• Industrial surplus websites
• Local classified ads
• Business liquidation sales
• Manufacturing plant closures

Types of Used Metal Drums Available

By Size

30-gallon drums:

• Best for small operations
• Easy to handle and move
• Perfect for specialty chemicals or food products

55-gallon drums (most popular):

• Industry standard size
• Good balance of capacity and handling
• Works for most businesses

85-gallon drums:

• For large-scale operations
• Requires special handling equipment
• Best value for bulk storage

By Head Type

Open-head drums:

• Removable lid with ring clamp
• Great for thick liquids, powders, and solids
• Easy to clean and inspect inside
• Example: storing paint, adhesives, or dry goods

Closed-head drums:

• Sealed top with small openings (bungs)
• Best for thin liquids
• Prevents spills and contamination
• Example: storing oils, solvents, or beverages

How to Buy Used Metal Drums

Step 1: Know What You Need

Before calling suppliers, answer these questions:

• What will you store in the drums?
• How many drums do you need?
• What size works best for your operation?
• Do you need food-grade quality?
• Will you store hazardous materials?

Step 2: Contact RePackify

• Call or visit their website
• Request a quote with your specifications
• Ask about delivery options
• Compare prices for different quantities

Step 3: Inspect Before Buying

Check each drum for:

• Rust or corrosion
• Dents or damage
• Proper lid seal
• Clean interior
• Readable labels and markings

Safety and Legal Requirements

For Regular Materials

Most used drums work fine for:

• Water-based products
• Non-hazardous chemicals
• Food ingredients (if food-grade certified)
• Oils and lubricants

For Hazardous Materials

You need special drums with:

• UN rating markings
• Proper certification documents
• Chemical-resistant linings
• Leak-proof testing certificates

Important: Never use drums that previously held incompatible chemicals. Always ask about the drum's history.

Drum Reconditioning Services

What RePackify Offers

• Complete interior cleaning
• Rust removal and treatment
• New gaskets and seals
• Pressure testing
• Fresh exterior coating

Signs a Drum Needs Reconditioning

• Interior residue or odors
• Surface rust
• Worn gaskets
• Dents affecting seal integrity

Getting the Best Price

Money-Saving Tips

• Buy in bulk (10+ drums typically get discounts)
• Choose lightly used over fully reconditioned when possible
• Consider mixed sizes if you have varied needs
• Pick up yourself to save delivery costs
• Build relationships with suppliers for better future pricing

Typical Price Ranges

• 30-gallon drums: $25-45 each
• 55-gallon drums: $30-60 each
• 85-gallon drums: $45-80 each

Prices vary based on condition, quantity, and market demand.

Proper Storage and Handling

Storage Best Practices

• Keep drums on pallets or racks (never directly on concrete)
• Store in dry, well-ventilated areas
• Label contents clearly
• Check regularly for damage
• Maintain inventory records

Safe Handling

• Use proper lifting equipment for heavy drums
• Train employees on safe handling procedures
• Wear appropriate protective equipment
• Follow manufacturer's guidelines

What to Do with Old Drums

Recycling Options

When drums reach end of life:

• Metal recycling centers accept steel drums
• Some facilities handle hazardous residues
• RePackify offers recycling services
• Always clean drums before disposal

Environmental Benefits

Recycling metal drums:

• Reduces landfill waste
• Conserves raw materials
• Saves energy compared to making new steel
• Supports circular economy

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't Do This

• Buy drums without inspecting them first
• Mix incompatible chemicals in the same drum
• Store drums directly on concrete floors
• Ignore safety regulations for hazardous materials
• Buy more drums than you can properly store

Do This Instead

• Always inspect drums before purchase
• Keep detailed records of what each drum contains
• Use proper storage methods
• Follow all safety guidelines
• Start with smaller quantities until you know your needs

Getting Started

Your Next Steps

Calculate your needs: How many drums and what sizes?

Contact RePackify: Get quotes and availability

Plan your storage: Prepare space and handling equipment

Start small: Order a few drums to test quality

Build relationships: Work with suppliers for ongoing needs

Questions to Ask Suppliers

• What was previously stored in these drums?
• Are they cleaned and tested?
• What's your return policy?
• Do you offer delivery?
• Can you provide bulk discounts?

Summary

Used metal drums offer excellent value for businesses in Winston-Salem. By choosing the right supplier like RePackify, understanding your needs, and following proper safety procedures, you can save significant money while getting quality storage solutions.

Remember: start simple, ask questions, and build relationships with reliable suppliers. With the right approach, used metal drums can serve your business well for years to come.

Ready to get started? Contact RePackify today for a free quote on used metal drums that meet your specific needs.