Buy Used Metal Drums in West Fargo

Save Money on Metal Drums in West Fargo: Your Complete Buying Guide

What you'll gain from reading this: You'll learn how to find quality used metal drums for $5-15 each, avoid common buying mistakes, and handle them safely. This guide will save you hundreds of dollars compared to buying new drums.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums offer three main benefits:

• Cost savings: Pay $5-15 instead of $50-100 for new drums
• Environmental impact: Reduce waste and support recycling
• Quick availability: Get drums today instead of waiting weeks for new orders

What Types of Drums Are Available?

Most used drums in West Fargo are 55-gallon steel containers. You'll find two main types:

Closed-head drums:

• Fixed top with small openings
• Best for liquids you pour in and out
• Good for chemicals, oils, and water storage

Open-head drums:

• Removable lid
• Easy to fill with solids or thick materials
• Perfect for mixing, composting, or storage

Where to Find Used Drums in West Fargo

Online Sources

Online marketplaces list drums with prices upfront. For example:

• 55-gallon drums starting at $5 each
• Photos showing actual condition
• Direct contact with sellers
• Pickup or delivery options

Local Recycling Centers

Local metal recyclers often stock used drums. Benefits include:

• See before you buy
• No shipping costs
• Negotiate prices on large orders
• Same-day pickup

Metal Fabrication Shops

Some metal shops sell reconditioned drums with:

• Professional cleaning
• New gaskets and closures
• Rust removal
• Fresh paint or coatings

How to Check Drum Quality

Before buying, inspect each drum for:

Structural problems:

• Dents that affect stacking
• Rust spots or holes
• Damaged threads on openings
• Bent or cracked rims

Cleanliness issues:

• Strong chemical odors
• Sticky residue inside
• Illegible labels (you need to know what was stored)
• Stains that won't clean off

Good signs:

• Clear, readable labels
• Smooth surfaces
• Tight-fitting lids
• No dents or rust

Pricing Guide

Expect to pay these prices in West Fargo:

• Basic condition: $5-8 per drum
• Good condition: $8-12 per drum
• Reconditioned: $12-15 per drum
• Food-grade quality: $15-20 per drum

Money-saving tips:

• Buy in bulk for discounts
• Pick up yourself to avoid delivery fees
• Choose drums needing minor cleaning over perfect ones
• Shop during slow seasons (winter) for better prices

Transportation and Storage

Moving drums safely:

• Use a forklift or drum dolly for heavy drums
• Secure drums on pallets for transport
• Never roll drums with liquid inside
• Get help lifting - drums weigh 40+ pounds empty

Storage requirements:

• Keep drums on pallets off the ground
• Store in covered areas to prevent rust
• Leave space between drums for air circulation
• Use spill containment pallets for chemicals

Safety and Legal Requirements

Before using any drum:

• Triple-rinse drums that held chemicals
• Read all labels to understand previous contents
• Check local regulations for hazardous materials
• Keep safety data sheets for chemical residues

Common safety mistakes:

• Using drums without knowing previous contents
• Storing incompatible materials together
• Ignoring local fire codes
• Skipping proper cleaning procedures

Making Drums Last Longer

Simple maintenance:

• Clean drums thoroughly after each use
• Store in dry locations
• Apply rust-preventing coatings
• Replace damaged gaskets promptly

When to replace:

• Visible rust holes
• Damaged threads that won't seal
• Persistent chemical odors
• Structural damage from drops

Getting Started

Your first purchase:

Decide how many drums you need

Choose closed-head or open-head based on your use

Visit local recyclers to see options

Inspect drums carefully before buying

Arrange safe transportation

Questions to ask sellers:

• What was previously stored in the drums?
• Have they been cleaned?
• Are there volume discounts?
• Can you inspect before buying?
• What's the return policy?

Final Thoughts

Used metal drums offer excellent value for businesses and individuals needing reliable storage containers. Start with a small purchase to test quality and build relationships with local suppliers. With proper inspection and handling, used drums provide years of service at a fraction of new drum costs.

Remember: The key to success is buying from reputable sources, inspecting thoroughly, and handling safely. Your wallet and the environment will thank you.