How to Buy Used Metal Drums in South Dakota: Save Money and Find Quality Containers
What you'll learn: This guide shows you how to find reliable used metal drums in South Dakota, save up to 70% compared to new drums, and avoid common buying mistakes.
Why Buy Used Metal Drums?
Used metal drums offer three main benefits:
- Save money: Pay 30-70% less than new drums
- Help the environment: Reuse steel instead of making new containers
- Get quality containers: Many used drums work just as well as new ones
What Types of Used Drums Can You Find?
Two Main Types:
- Open-head drums: Have removable lids. Good for thick materials like paint or chemicals you need to scoop out
- Tight-head drums: Have sealed tops with small openings. Better for liquids that might spill
Common Sizes:
- 30-gallon drums: Good for small businesses
- 55-gallon drums: Most popular size
- 85-gallon drums: For bigger storage needs
Condition Levels:
- Like-new: Minor scratches only
- Good condition: Some dents but no leaks
- Fair condition: Visible wear but still functional
- Reconditioned: Cleaned, repaired, and repainted
Where to Buy Used Metal Drums in South Dakota
Local Options
RePackify has locations in Watertown and Sioux Falls. They offer:
- Both open-head and tight-head drums
- Standard 30, 55, and 85-gallon sizes
- Ability to inspect drums before buying
- Local delivery options
What to Look For in Any Supplier
- UN/DOT certified drums (required for hazardous materials)
- Clear return policy
- Ability to inspect drums before purchase
- Volume discounts for bulk orders
How to Inspect Used Drums Before Buying
Follow this simple checklist:
Outside of the Drum:
- Look for rust spots or holes
- Check for dents that might cause leaks
- Make sure the drum sits flat
- Verify UN/DOT markings are readable
Inside the Drum:
- Smell inside - strong odors may never come out
- Look for corrosion or pitting
- Check that previous contents are compatible with your needs
Sealing Parts:
- Test that lids close tightly
- Check rubber gaskets aren't cracked
- Make sure bung caps screw on properly
Common Uses for Used Metal Drums
Agriculture:
- Store liquid fertilizers
- Transport grain
- Collect rainwater
Construction:
- Mix concrete
- Store paint and solvents
- Transport materials to job sites
Manufacturing:
- Store raw materials
- Transport finished products
- Collect waste materials
How Much Should You Pay?
Typical prices in South Dakota:
- 30-gallon drums: $15-40 each
- 55-gallon drums: $20-60 each
- 85-gallon drums: $40-80 each
Prices depend on:
- Condition of the drum
- How many you buy
- Whether drums are certified for hazardous materials
Red Flags to Avoid
Don't buy drums that have:
- Visible holes or cracks
- Heavy rust that flakes off
- Strong chemical odors
- Missing or unreadable UN/DOT markings
- Dents near the sealing area
What to Do With Old Drums
When your drums reach the end of their life:
- Remove all contents completely
- Take off labels and stickers
- Find a certified metal recycler
- Get documentation for proper disposal
Proper disposal helps you:
- Follow environmental laws
- Avoid fines
- Support steel recycling
Getting Started
Here's your action plan:
Decide what you need: How many drums? What size? What condition?
Set your budget: Remember to include delivery costs
Contact RePackify: Ask about current inventory and prices
Inspect before buying: Use the checklist above
Plan for disposal: Know where drums will go when you're done
Final Tips
- Buy from suppliers who let you inspect drums first
- Start with a small order to test quality
- Ask about volume discounts for large orders
- Keep records of drum purchases for safety compliance
- Consider delivery costs when comparing prices
Used metal drums can save your business money while providing reliable storage and transport solutions. The key is knowing what to look for and buying from reputable suppliers who stand behind their products.