Save Money on Quality Used Metal Drums in Beaver Falls - Complete Buying Guide
What you'll get from reading this: Learn how to buy reliable used 55-gallon steel drums locally, avoid common mistakes, and save money on your purchase.
Why Buy Used Metal Drums?
You'll save 60-70% compared to new drums while getting containers that work just as well for most storage needs. Used drums are perfect for:
- Storing water or chemicals
- Shipping materials
- Making planters or fire barrels
- Emergency water storage
Your Local Source
RePackify is your main option in Beaver Falls:
- Location: Beaver Falls, PA 15010
- Product: Used 55-gallon steel drums (open head)
- Price: $275 each
- Stock: 150 drums available
- Note: Freight costs extra
What You'll Actually Pay
Here's the real cost breakdown:
Base price: $275 per drum
Delivery costs: $50-$100 per drum (depends on how far you are and how many you order)
Total cost per drum: $325-$375
Money-saving tip: Order multiple drums at once. Freight companies charge less per drum when you order 5 or more.
How to Inspect Drums Before Buying
Check these things or you might waste your money:
What was stored inside before?
- Ask directly what chemicals or materials were in the drum
- Avoid drums that held unknown substances
- Example: A drum that held vegetable oil is much safer than one that held industrial cleaner
Is the drum in good shape?
- Look for rust holes (small spots are okay, but holes mean leaks)
- Check for big dents that might weaken the metal
- Make sure the lid fits tight
Are the markings readable?
- Look for UN/DOT stamps on the side
- These numbers matter if you're shipping hazardous materials
- Example: UN1A1 means it's approved for certain chemicals
Do the parts work?
- Test the bung holes (small caps on top)
- Check that the lid ring locks properly
- Wiggle everything to make sure it's solid
Getting Your Drums Delivered
Before you order:
- Measure your space (drums are 23 inches wide, 35 inches tall)
- Make sure a truck can reach your location
- Have a forklift or plan to roll them off the truck
When scheduling delivery:
- Ask for ground-level delivery (cheaper than liftgate service)
- Be specific about where you want them placed
- Example: "Put them next to the garage door, not in the driveway"
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't buy without seeing them first
- Photos can hide problems
- Visit the yard if possible
- Example: One buyer got drums with baseball-sized rust holes because they only saw photos
Don't forget about cleaning costs
- Budget $20-50 per drum for cleaning supplies
- Some drums need professional cleaning
- Example: Food-grade storage requires thorough degreasing
Don't ignore freight costs
- Freight often costs more than the drum itself
- Get quotes from multiple carriers
- Example: One carrier wanted $150 per drum, another charged $65
Making the Best Deal
Questions to ask RePackify:
- What was stored in these specific drums?
- Can I see them before buying?
- Do you offer discounts for 10+ drums?
- Which freight company do you recommend?
Negotiation tips:
- Ask about drums that have been sitting longer (they might discount them)
- Offer to pick up yourself if you have a truck
- Buy during slow seasons (winter) for better prices
Getting Started
Your action plan:
Call RePackify to check current stock
Ask about the history of available drums
Get a freight quote for your location
Visit to inspect if possible
Order multiple drums to save on freight
Red flags to watch for:
- Seller won't tell you what was stored inside
- Drums have strong chemical smells
- Rust is flaking off in large pieces
- Price seems too good to be true
This guide gives you everything you need to buy quality used drums without getting ripped off. Start with RePackify since they're local and have good stock, but always inspect before you buy.