Buy Used Metal Drums in Brookings

Save Money on Metal Drums: Your Guide to Finding Quality Used Barrels in Brookings, SD

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to find, inspect, and buy used metal drums in Brookings for half the price of new ones. Perfect for storage, farming, or small business needs.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums cost 50-70% less than new ones. Here's what you save:

• New 55-gallon drum: $80-120
• Used 55-gallon drum: $30-60
• Bulk discounts available for 20+ drums

You also help the environment by reusing steel instead of buying new.

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Brookings

Recycling Centers and Scrap Yards

These are your best bet for finding drums at low prices.

What they offer:

• Steel drums from local businesses
• Drums sorted by condition
• Bulk pricing for large orders
• Negotiable prices

What to ask:

• What was stored in the drum before?
• Can I inspect it before buying?
• Do you offer bulk discounts?
• When do you get new inventory?

Metal Fabrication Shops

These places clean and fix drums for specific uses.

Services they provide:

• Cleaning and rust removal
• Welding repairs for dents and holes
• Internal coating for food-grade use
• Custom fittings and modifications

Best for:

• Drums that need specific modifications
• Food-grade storage requirements
• Chemical-resistant applications

Farm Equipment Dealers

Check with local equipment suppliers during off-seasons.

When to look:

• Fall and winter months
• End-of-season clearances
• Equipment lot sales

What you might find:

• Chemical and lubricant barrels
• Feed storage drums
• Surplus inventory from farms

How to Inspect Used Drums

Check the outside:

• Look for deep dents or holes
• Check for rust or corrosion
• Make sure the lid closes properly
• Test the locking ring

Check the inside:

• Smell for chemical odors
• Look for stains or residue
• Check for rust inside
• Make sure there are no holes

Ask these questions:

• What was stored in this drum?
• Has it been cleaned?
• Are there any leaks?
• Do you have any test certificates?

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy drums that:

• Smell like chemicals or fuel
• Have deep rust or holes
• Were used for hazardous materials
• Have damaged seams or welds
• Come without any history information

Cleaning and Preparing Your Drums

Basic cleaning steps:

Rinse with water first

Wash with soap and hot water

Use a pressure washer for stubborn dirt

Let dry completely before use

For heavy-duty cleaning:

• Remove rust with sandblasting
• Apply primer and paint to prevent future rust
• Add internal coating for food or chemical storage
• Replace gaskets and seals if needed

Pricing and When to Buy

Typical prices in Brookings:

• Good condition: $45-60 per drum
• Fair condition: $30-45 per drum
• Bulk orders (20+): 15-25% discount

Best times to buy:

• Fall and winter (lower demand)
• End of business quarters
• During equipment sales

Money-saving tips:

• Buy in bulk when possible
• Build relationships with suppliers
• Check multiple sources before buying
• Consider drums that need minor repairs

Safety and Legal Requirements

Before you transport:

• Make sure drums are empty and clean
• Secure lids properly
• Label contents clearly
• Follow DOT transportation rules

Environmental rules:

• Drums with hazardous materials need special cleaning
• Some drums cannot be reused for certain purposes
• Check local regulations before use
• Dispose of unusable drums properly

Common Uses for Used Metal Drums

Around the house:

• Rainwater collection
• Burn barrels (with proper permits)
• Storage for garden supplies
• DIY projects and crafts

For farms:

• Feed storage
• Water storage
• Liquid fertilizer containers
• Equipment cleaning

For small businesses:

• Waste collection
• Chemical storage
• Parts washing
• Material transport

Getting Started

Your first purchase:

Start with one or two drums to test quality

Choose a reputable local supplier

Inspect thoroughly before buying

Ask about return policies

Building relationships:

• Visit suppliers regularly
• Be a repeat customer
• Refer others when possible
• Pay promptly

Final Tips

• Always inspect drums yourself
• Ask about the drum's history
• Consider cleaning costs in your budget
• Start small and scale up
• Keep receipts for tax purposes

Used metal drums offer great value when you know what to look for. Take your time, ask questions, and inspect carefully. With these tips, you'll find quality drums at prices that make sense for your budget.