Buy Used Metal Drums in Pennsylvania

Save Money and Help the Environment: Your Guide to Buying Used Metal Drums in Pennsylvania

What you'll get from this guide:

• Save 50-70% compared to buying new drums
• Find reliable suppliers near you
• Avoid costly mistakes when inspecting used drums
• Understand regulations that keep you compliant
• Get drums delivered safely to your business

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums make perfect sense for your business. Here's why:

• Save serious money - Pay $15-45 instead of $80-120 for new drums
• Help the environment - Give drums a second life instead of sending them to landfills
• Get the same quality - Properly reconditioned drums work just like new ones
• Support local business - Pennsylvania has excellent drum suppliers

What Types of Used Drums Can You Find?

Most Common Size

The 55-gallon steel drum is what most people need. It holds 208 liters and you can move it by hand or with equipment.

Other Sizes Available

• Small drums: 5-20 gallons (perfect for small businesses)
• Medium drums: 30-35 gallons (good for moderate storage)
• Large drums: 275 gallons (for industrial operations)

Materials You'll Find

• Carbon steel drums - Strong and versatile for most uses
• Stainless steel drums - Won't rust, great for food or chemicals
• Galvanized steel drums - Coated to resist corrosion

Two Main Styles

• Open head drums - Have removable lids, good for solids or thick liquids
• Closed head drums - Sealed tops with small openings, perfect for thin liquids

How to Buy Smart: Inspection Checklist

Before you buy any used drum, check these things:

What Was in It Before?

• Ask the seller what the drum contained
• Get safety data sheets if available
• Avoid drums that held dangerous chemicals
• Food-grade drums are safest for most uses

Physical Condition

• Look for rust or corrosion
• Check for dents that might cause leaks
• Make sure lids and locks work properly
• Test that bungs (small openings) seal tight

Reconditioning Quality

• Ask how the drum was cleaned
• Check if it has special coatings inside
• Make sure it meets safety standards
• Get documentation when possible

What You'll Pay

Price Ranges for 55-Gallon Drums

• Excellent condition: $35-45 (looks almost new)
• Good condition: $25-35 (some wear but works great)
• Fair condition: $15-25 (cosmetic issues but structurally sound)

Money-Saving Tips

• Buy in bulk for better prices
• Pick up drums yourself to save delivery fees
• Check with multiple suppliers for best deals
• Consider fair-condition drums for non-critical uses

Cost Comparison Example

• New 55-gallon drum: $80-120
• Used 55-gallon drum: $15-45
• Your savings: $35-105 per drum

Getting Your Drums Delivered

Weight and Handling

• Empty 55-gallon steel drum weighs about 40 pounds
• You can load them by hand into pickup trucks
• Use straps or tie-downs to secure during transport

Delivery Options

• Pick up yourself to save money
• Professional delivery: $25-50 per load
• Some suppliers offer scheduled deliveries
• Large orders may get drop-trailer service

Safety During Transport

• Secure drums so they don't shift
• Use pallets for multiple drums
• Plan for unloading at your location
• Have forklift access ready if needed

Staying Legal and Safe

Documentation You Need

• Safety data sheets for previous contents
• UN markings for hazardous material compliance
• Capacity stamps showing drum size
• Proper hazard warnings when required

Environmental Rules

• Clean drums must be properly documented
• Residues must be neutralized before reuse
• Follow state Department of Environmental Protection guidelines
• Check local storage and spill prevention rules

Working with Certified Suppliers

Look for suppliers who:

• Follow Reusable Industrial Packaging Association standards
• Pressure test drums after cleaning
• Provide proper documentation
• Meet UN/DOT standards for hazardous materials

Making Your Decision

Questions to Ask Suppliers

• What was previously stored in these drums?
• How were they cleaned and reconditioned?
• Do you provide documentation?
• What's your return policy?
• Can you deliver to my location?

Red Flags to Avoid

• Suppliers who won't tell you previous contents
• Drums with strong chemical odors
• Visible rust or structural damage
• Missing or illegible markings
• Prices that seem too good to be true

Your Next Steps

Decide what you need - Size, quantity, and condition level

Contact local suppliers - Get quotes from 2-3 companies

Inspect before buying - Follow the checklist above

Plan your logistics - Arrange pickup or delivery

Keep records - Save all documentation for compliance

The Bottom Line

Buying used metal drums in Pennsylvania is a smart business move. You'll save money, help the environment, and get quality containers that work just like new ones. The key is working with reputable suppliers who follow proper cleaning and reconditioning procedures.

Start with the suppliers listed in this guide. Ask questions, inspect carefully, and don't rush your decision. With the right approach, you'll find reliable drums that serve your business well while keeping costs down.

Remember: The best deal isn't always the cheapest price. Focus on quality, safety, and working with suppliers who stand behind their products.