Shop From Local Manufacturers & Sellers of Metal Drums.
What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find reliable used metal drums, what to look for, and how to get the best deals in Watertown, SD.
Used metal drums save you money. A new 55-gallon steel drum costs $80-120. A good used one costs $25-50. That's 50-70% savings.
You also help the environment. Reusing drums keeps them out of landfills.
55-gallon steel drums are most common. They come in two styles:
Open-head drums have removable lids. Good for:
Tight-head drums have sealed tops with small openings. Good for:
Food-grade vs industrial-grade: Food-grade drums held safe materials like cooking oil. Industrial-grade held chemicals or paint. Choose food-grade if you'll store anything you might eat or drink.
RePackify maintains large inventories of refurbished drums. They inspect and clean each drum before selling.
Local recycling centers often have drums available. Call ahead to check inventory.
Farm supply stores sometimes carry used drums, especially during planting season.
Online classifieds like Facebook Marketplace have individual sellers. Inspect carefully before buying.
Look at the outside:
Check the inside:
Test the seal:
Prices change based on supply and demand. Spring prices are usually higher due to farming needs.
What was stored in the drum last?
Has it been cleaned?
Are there any leaks or damage?
Do you offer any guarantee?
Can I inspect it before buying?
Clean new-to-you drums:
Prevent rust:
Regular checks:
Don't buy drums that:
Buy in bulk: Many sellers offer discounts for multiple drums.
Shop off-season: Prices drop in fall and winter.
Build relationships: Regular customers often get better prices.
Be flexible: Accept minor cosmetic flaws for lower prices.
Used metal drums are practical and economical. Start with one drum to test a supplier's quality. Once you find a reliable source, you can buy with confidence.
The key is knowing what to look for and asking the right questions. Take your time, inspect carefully, and don't be afraid to walk away from drums that don't meet your standards.
Get competitive pricing and availability for your specific requirements. We offer: