Buy Used Metal Drums in Mandan

Save Money and Help the Environment: Your Complete Guide to Buying Used Metal Drums in Mandan, ND

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to find quality used metal drums at low prices, avoid costly mistakes, and get the best deals in Mandan. You'll save money while helping the environment by reusing existing containers.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums offer three main benefits:

• Save money: Cost 50-70% less than new drums
• Help the environment: Keep steel out of landfills
• Get proven durability: These drums already proved they work

You can use these drums for:

• Storing water for gardens or emergencies
• Organizing tools and supplies
• Collecting rainwater
• Industrial storage needs

Types of Metal Drums You'll Find

Two main styles:

• Tight-head drums: Sealed tops with small openings. Best for liquids.
• Open-head drums: Removable lids. Better for solid materials or when you need easy access.

Common materials:

• Carbon steel: Most common, good for general use
• Stainless steel: More expensive but rust-resistant
• Specialty alloys: For specific chemical needs

Sizes you'll see:

• 30-gallon drums
• 55-gallon drums (most common)
• 85-gallon drums

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Mandan

Here are your best local options:

Equipment dealers:

• Check agricultural equipment dealers
• Look for drums from farm equipment trades
• Ask about wholesale pricing for multiple drums

Recycling centers:

• Visit local recycling facilities
• These often have drums people dropped off
• Usually the cheapest option

Metal fabricators:

• Contact local steel companies
• They sometimes have surplus drums from projects
• May need basic cleaning

Waste management companies:

• Ask companies that handle commercial waste
• They often find drums in good condition
• Can tell you what was stored in each drum

Manufacturing companies:

• Contact RePackify and similar companies
• They often have excess drums from shipping
• Usually well-maintained and documented

How to Inspect Used Drums Safely

Before you buy, check these things:

Outside the drum:

• Look for dents or deep scratches
• Check for rust spots, especially on the bottom
• Make sure the drum sits flat
• Inspect all weld seams for cracks

Inside the drum:

• Smell inside - strong odors may mean chemical residue
• Look for stains or buildup
• Check for interior rust or corrosion
• Shine a flashlight to see the entire interior

Moving parts:

• Test lids to make sure they open and close properly
• Check that bung caps screw on tight
• Inspect rubber gaskets for cracks
• Make sure locking rings work smoothly

Safety first:

• Never buy drums that held hazardous chemicals unless professionally cleaned
• Ask what was stored in each drum
• Get cleaning certificates if available
• When in doubt, walk away

What to Pay for Used Drums

Typical prices in Mandan:

• Basic 55-gallon drums: $20-40 each
• Reconditioned drums: $50-80 each
• Stainless steel drums: $80-150 each
• Food-grade drums: $60-100 each

Ways to save money:

• Buy three or more drums for bulk discounts
• Offer to pick up drums immediately
• Pay cash instead of credit
• Shop during slow business periods
• Check with RePackify for competitive rates

Red flags (don't buy):

• Prices that seem too good to be true
• Sellers who won't let you inspect drums
• Drums with unknown contents
• Heavily rusted or damaged containers

Smart Buying Tips

Before you go shopping:

• Measure your storage space
• Decide how many drums you need
• Set a budget and stick to it
• Arrange transportation (drums are heavy)

When talking to sellers:

• Ask about the drum's history
• Request bulk pricing
• Negotiate pickup times that work for them
• Be ready to buy if the price is right

After you buy:

• Clean drums thoroughly before use
• Store in a dry location
• Check periodically for new rust or damage
• Keep receipts for warranty issues

Getting Started

Your next steps:

Decide what you need drums for

Choose your preferred size and type

Contact three local suppliers for prices

Inspect drums carefully before buying

Clean and prepare drums for use

Questions to ask sellers:

• What was stored in these drums?
• Have they been cleaned?
• Do you offer bulk discounts?
• Can I inspect before buying?
• What's your return policy?

Remember: buying used drums saves money and helps the environment. Take your time, inspect carefully, and don't be afraid to walk away if something doesn't feel right. Good drums are available - you just need to know where to look and what to check.