Buy Used Metal Drums in Simpsonville

How to Buy Used Metal Drums in Simpsonville, SC: Save Money and Get Quality Storage

What you'll gain from this guide: Learn where to find reliable used metal drums, how to inspect them safely, and save up to 60% compared to buying new drums. Perfect for small businesses, DIY projects, and industrial storage needs.

Why Used Metal Drums Are Worth Your Money

Used metal drums offer excellent value for your storage and transport needs. Here's what you get:

• Cost savings: Pay 40-60% less than new drums
• Proven durability: These drums already survived industrial use
• Environmental benefits: Reuse reduces waste
• Immediate availability: No waiting for manufacturing

Common uses include:

• Water storage for gardens and farms
• Chemical storage for workshops
• Rain barrels for homes
• Planters for landscaping
• Fire pits for outdoor spaces
• Tool storage for garages

Types of Metal Drums You'll Find

Standard sizes:

• 30-gallon drums: Good for smaller projects
• 55-gallon drums: Most common, fits most needs
• 85-gallon drums: For large storage requirements

Two main styles:

• Open-head drums: Removable lids, easy to fill and clean
• Closed-head drums: Sealed tops with small openings, better for liquids

Condition grades:

• Reconditioned: Cleaned and inspected, ready to use
• As-is: Needs cleaning, lower price
• Food-grade: Previously held food products, safe for edibles

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Simpsonville

Local Drum Suppliers

Specialized barrel companies offer the best selection:

• Reconditioned drums ready for immediate use
• Professional cleaning services available
• Delivery options for larger orders
• Staff who understand drum specifications

What to ask:

• Do you have the size I need in stock?
• What was previously stored in these drums?
• Are they cleaned and inspected?
• Do you offer delivery?

Metal Recycling Centers

Recycling facilities often have intact drums for sale:

• Lowest prices available
• Large selection when available
• Must arrange pickup yourself
• Stock varies daily

Best approach:

• Call ahead to check inventory
• Visit early in the week for best selection
• Bring cash for faster transactions
• Arrange transportation in advance

Industrial Packaging Distributors

Companies that sell new packaging often have used options:

• Higher quality standards
• Professional inspections
• Minimum order requirements
• Appointment-based visits

Good for:

• Businesses needing multiple drums
• Applications requiring certified quality
• Regular, ongoing drum needs

Supplier Comparison: What Each Offers

Drum Specialists:

• Best variety of sizes and styles
• Professional reconditioning services
• Delivery available
• Higher prices but better quality

Recycling Centers:

• Lowest prices
• Limited selection
• Pickup only
• Condition varies widely

Packaging Distributors:

• Highest quality standards
• Professional cleaning guaranteed
• Bulk orders preferred
• Appointment required

How to Inspect Used Drums Safely

Before you buy, check these critical areas:

Structural integrity:

• Look for dents, cracks, or bulges
• Check weld seams for corrosion
• Ensure the drum sits flat and stable
• Test that lids fit properly

Interior condition:

• Smell inside for chemical odors
• Look for rust, stains, or residue
• Check for coating damage
• Verify bungs and gaskets are intact

Safety markings:

• Find labels showing previous contents
• Check for DOT certification codes
• Note any hazardous material warnings
• Verify cleaning certifications

Red flags to avoid:

• Strong chemical odors that won't wash out
• Visible rust holes or deep corrosion
• Severely dented or deformed drums
• Missing or damaged closures

Transportation and Delivery Options

Weight considerations:

• Empty 55-gallon steel drum: 40-50 pounds
• Plan for 2-person lifting
• Use proper lifting techniques
• Consider drum dollies for moving

Pickup requirements:

• Truck bed or trailer capacity
• Tie-down straps or chains
• Loading dock access
• Forklift or hand truck

Delivery services:

• Local freight carriers
• Supplier delivery trucks
• Pallet shipments for multiple drums
• Scheduled delivery times

Money-Saving Tips and Alternative Sources

Online marketplaces:

• Check local classified ads regularly
• Search for business closures or warehouse cleanouts
• Compare prices across multiple listings
• Always inspect in person before buying

Direct from businesses:

• Contact local manufacturers
• Ask about their used drum disposal
• Offer to pick up regularly
• Build relationships for ongoing supply

Community networks:

• Join local business associations
• Attend recycling events
• Connect with other drum users
• Share transportation costs

Best negotiation strategies:

• Buy multiple drums for volume discounts
• Offer cash payment
• Be flexible on pickup timing
• Build repeat customer relationships

What You Should Pay

Typical price ranges in Simpsonville:

• Basic 55-gallon drums: $15-25 each
• Reconditioned drums: $25-40 each
• Food-grade drums: $30-50 each
• Specialty lined drums: $40-60 each

Additional costs to consider:

• Cleaning services: $10-15 per drum
• Delivery fees: $25-50 per trip
• Transportation costs if picking up yourself

Getting Started: Your Action Plan

Step 1: Decide what you need

• Determine drum size and quantity
• Consider your intended use
• Set your budget range

Step 2: Research local suppliers

• Call 3-4 suppliers for current stock
• Compare prices and services
• Ask about delivery options

Step 3: Inspect before buying

• Bring a flashlight and measuring tape
• Check structural integrity
• Verify cleaning and condition

Step 4: Arrange transportation

• Confirm pickup details
• Secure proper tie-downs
• Plan your route home

Step 5: Clean and prepare for use

• Wash thoroughly with appropriate cleaners
• Allow to dry completely
• Apply any needed modifications

This guide gives you everything needed to find quality used metal drums in Simpsonville at the best prices. Start with local drum specialists for your first purchase, then explore other sources as you gain experience. Remember: a thorough inspection is worth the time to ensure you get drums that will serve your needs safely and effectively.