Buy Used Metal Drums in Edmond

How to Buy Used Metal Drums in Edmond, OK (And Save Money)

What you'll learn: Where to find cheap used metal drums in Edmond, what to look for when buying, and how to avoid common mistakes that cost money.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums save you money. A new 55-gallon steel drum costs $50-100. A used one costs $5-20. That's 75% less.

You also help the environment. Reusing drums keeps them out of landfills and reduces the need for new steel production.

What Are Metal Drums?

Metal drums are large containers made from steel. They hold 55 gallons and come in two main types:

Open-head drums:

• Have removable lids
• Easy to fill with solid materials
• Good for storage of tools, grain, or craft supplies
• Cost less than tight-head drums

Tight-head drums:

• Have permanent lids with small openings
• Better for liquids
• Less likely to leak
• Good for water storage or chemicals

Where to Find Used Drums in Edmond

Online Sources

RePackify sells used 55-gallon steel drums starting at $5 each. They offer:

• Both open-head and tight-head options
• Rinsed drums ready to use
• Local pickup available
• Bulk discounts for multiple drums

Local Recycling Centers

Metal recyclers buy drums for scrap but also sell usable ones:

• Call ahead to check availability
• Prices vary based on drum condition
• You can often negotiate bulk prices
• Bring cash for best deals

Farm Supply Stores

Agricultural stores sometimes have:

• Trade-in drums from farmers
• Surplus inventory
• Accessories like pumps and fittings
• Higher prices but better condition

What to Check Before Buying

Drum Condition

Look for these problems:

• Rust spots: Small spots are okay, but avoid heavy rust
• Dents: Minor dents don't matter, but deep dents weaken the drum
• Cracks: Never buy cracked drums
• Seal condition: Check if the lid seals properly

Previous Contents

Ask what was stored in the drum:

• Food products: Generally safe to reuse
• Chemicals: May need special cleaning
• Oil products: Can leave residue and smell
• Unknown contents: Avoid these drums

Cleaning Level

Drums come in different cleaning levels:

• Rinsed: Basic cleaning, good for non-food storage
• Reconditioned: Pressure-tested and certified clean
• Food-grade: Safe for drinking water and food

How Much Should You Pay?

Typical prices in Edmond:

• Basic rinsed drums: $5-10 each
• Reconditioned drums: $15-25 each
• Food-grade drums: $20-35 each
• Bulk orders (10+ drums): 20-30% discount

Transportation Tips

Before you buy:

• Check if you need a truck or trailer
• Ask if the seller can load the drums
• Bring straps or rope to secure drums
• Empty drums weigh about 40 pounds each

Loading safely:

• Use a hand truck or dolly
• Get help lifting - drums are awkward to carry
• Roll drums instead of carrying when possible

Common Uses for Used Drums

Around the house:

• Rainwater collection
• Compost bins
• Storage for garden tools
• Burn barrels (check local laws first)

For businesses:

• Storage for dry goods
• Waste collection
• Chemical storage (with proper cleaning)
• Parts cleaning

Safety Rules

Always:

• Wear gloves when handling used drums
• Work in well-ventilated areas
• Check local laws about drum storage
• Clean drums before use, even if they look clean

Never:

• Store food in drums that held chemicals
• Use damaged drums for liquids
• Ignore strange smells or stains
• Assume drums are clean without checking

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy drums if:

• The seller won't tell you what was stored inside
• The price seems too good to be true
• The drum has a chemical smell
• There are warning labels you can't read
• The seller pressures you to buy quickly

Getting the Best Deal

Money-saving tips:

• Buy multiple drums at once for bulk discounts
• Check several sources before buying
• Consider slightly damaged drums for non-critical uses
• Ask about delivery options to save transportation costs

Timing matters:

• Spring and fall are busy seasons (higher prices)
• Winter often has better deals
• End of fiscal year sales (around December/January)

Final Checklist

Before you buy, ask yourself:

• Do I know what was stored in this drum?
• Is the drum the right type for my needs?
• Can I safely transport it home?
• Is the price fair for the condition?
• Do I need food-grade certification?

Next Steps

Decide what type of drum you need

Contact RePackify for current inventory and prices

Check local recyclers for comparison

Arrange transportation before you buy

Inspect drums carefully before taking them home

Remember: The cheapest drum isn't always the best deal. A slightly more expensive drum in good condition will serve you better than a cheap one that leaks or breaks.