Buy Used Metal Drums in Watertown

How to Buy Quality Used Metal Drums in Watertown, SD (And Save Money)

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.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

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.

What Types of Drums Can You Find?

55-gallon steel drums are most common. They come in two styles:

Open-head drums have removable lids. Good for:

• Storing grain or feed
• Mixing materials
• Easy cleaning

Tight-head drums have sealed tops with small openings. Good for:

• Storing liquids
• Transporting materials
• Preventing spills

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.

Where to Buy in Watertown

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.

What to Check Before You Buy

Look at the outside:

• No deep dents or cracks
• Minimal rust (surface rust is okay)
• Lid fits tight

Check the inside:

• No strong chemical smells
• No thick residue buildup
• No holes or severe corrosion

Test the seal:

• Lid closes properly
• Gaskets aren't cracked
• Bung caps (small caps on tight-head drums) turn easily

Typical Prices in Watertown

• Clean 55-gallon open-head: $25-40
• Clean 55-gallon tight-head: $30-50
• Food-grade drums: Add $5-10
• Drums needing cleaning: $15-25

Prices change based on supply and demand. Spring prices are usually higher due to farming needs.

Questions to Ask Sellers

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?

Simple Maintenance Tips

Clean new-to-you drums:

• Rinse with hot water and dish soap
• For stubborn residue, use baking soda paste
• Let dry completely before storing anything

Prevent rust:

• Keep drums dry when not in use
• Store in covered areas if possible
• Touch up paint chips with rust-resistant paint

Regular checks:

• Look for new dents or rust spots monthly
• Replace gaskets if they crack
• Tighten loose lids or caps

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy drums that:

• Smell strongly of chemicals
• Have holes or deep cracks
• Won't seal properly
• Come from unknown sources
• Look heavily corroded inside

Getting the Best Deal

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.

Final Thoughts

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.