Buy Used Metal Drums in Providence

Save Money on Storage: Find Quality Used Metal Drums in Providence, RI

What you'll gain from this guide: You'll discover where to buy reliable used metal drums in Providence at lower prices than new ones, learn what to check before buying, and understand local regulations to avoid problems.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums cost 50-70% less than new ones. A new 55-gallon drum might cost $45-60, while a good used one costs $15-25. For businesses needing dozens or hundreds of drums, this saves thousands of dollars.

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Providence

Online Marketplaces

• RePackify: Local online marketplace connecting buyers with sellers
• Features reconditioned 55-gallon steel barrels
• Offers both open-head (removable lid) and tight-head (fixed top) drums
• Provides bulk discounts and delivery options
• Fast turnaround for Providence orders

Scrap Yards and Recyclers

• Metal recycling centers often have drums in good condition
• Prices vary based on current metal market
• Stock levels change frequently
• Best for buyers who can inspect drums personally

Industrial Surplus Dealers

• Companies upgrading equipment sometimes sell drum inventory
• Check online classifieds and business liquidation sites
• May offer large quantities at once

What to Check Before Buying

Basic Inspection Points

• Rust and corrosion: Light surface rust is usually fine, but deep rust holes mean trouble
• Dents: Small dents are cosmetic, but large dents can weaken the drum
• Seams: Check where metal pieces join - cracks here cause leaks
• Lid fit: For open-head drums, ensure the lid sits properly

Safety Considerations

• Previous contents: Ask what was stored in the drum before
• Cleaning: Verify the drum was properly cleaned
• Certifications: For hazardous materials, look for UN/DOT markings

Example: A drum that held vegetable oil is safer to buy than one that held industrial chemicals, even if both were cleaned.

Types of Used Drums Available

Open-Head Drums

• Removable lid with clamp-on ring
• Easy to clean and fill
• Good for: solid materials, thick liquids, items needing wide access
• Price range: $15-30 used

Tight-Head Drums

• Fixed top with small openings (bung holes)
• Better for liquids
• Harder to clean but more secure
• Price range: $20-35 used

Rhode Island Regulations You Should Know

Basic Requirements

• Drums for hazardous materials must meet federal standards
• Keep records of what you store and where drums came from
• Follow local waste disposal rules when drums reach end of life

Documentation to Request

• Cleaning certificates
• Previous use records
• Reconditioning paperwork (if applicable)

Simple rule: If you're storing anything potentially dangerous, ask for paperwork. If it's just water or food products, basic inspection is usually enough.

Ordering and Delivery

Typical Order Process

Check inventory online or call supplier

Specify quantity and drum type needed

Arrange inspection (if buying locally)

Confirm delivery details

Complete payment

Delivery Options

• Small orders (1-10 drums): Pickup or small truck delivery
• Medium orders (10-50 drums): Partial truckload
• Large orders (50+ drums): Full truckload (best price per drum)

Pricing Structure

• Single drums: $15-25 each
• Small quantity (5-20): 10% discount
• Bulk orders (50+): 20-30% discount
• Delivery: $50-150 depending on distance and quantity

Advanced Considerations

For Hazardous Materials

If storing chemicals, fuels, or other hazardous substances:

• Verify UN/DOT certification stamps
• Request reconditioning documentation
• Consider getting drums tested before first use
• Budget for proper disposal at end of drum life

For Food-Grade Applications

• Look for food-grade liner or coating
• Verify previous contents were food-safe
• Consider additional cleaning or testing
• Price premium: $5-10 per drum over standard used drums

Getting the Best Deal

Timing Your Purchase

• Best prices: Late fall/early winter when demand is lower
• Worst prices: Spring when construction and agriculture ramp up
• Bulk discounts: Order 25+ drums at once for best pricing

Negotiation Tips

• Ask about volume discounts
• Inquire about delivery fee waivers for large orders
• Request payment terms for established businesses
• Consider slightly imperfect drums for non-critical uses

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying drums without seeing them first (unless from trusted supplier)
• Ignoring previous contents for your intended use
• Forgetting to factor in delivery costs
• Not checking local regulations for your specific application
• Assuming all "reconditioned" drums meet the same standards

Final Recommendation

Start with RePackify for reliable, inspected drums with known history. Their local presence means faster delivery and easier returns if problems arise. For budget-conscious buyers comfortable with more risk, scrap yards offer the lowest prices but require more careful inspection.

Bottom line: Used drums can save significant money while providing reliable storage, but success depends on careful selection and understanding your specific needs.