Buy Used Metal Drums in Memphis

Save Money on Industrial Storage: Your Guide to Buying Used Metal Drums in Memphis

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find quality used metal drums in Memphis, how to choose the right type for your needs, and how to buy safely while saving money.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums cost 50-70% less than new ones. A new 55-gallon steel drum costs $80-120. A used one costs $25-40.

You get the same strength and durability. Steel drums last for decades with proper care. Many used drums have years of life left.

You help the environment. Reusing drums keeps them out of landfills and reduces the need to make new ones.

What Types of Used Drums Can You Buy?

Two main styles:

• Open-head drums - The top comes off completely. Good for thick liquids, powders, or solid materials.
• Tight-head drums - The top is sealed with small openings. Good for thin liquids like water or oil.

Two main sizes:

• 55-gallon drums - Most common size. About 3 feet tall.
• 30-gallon drums - Smaller option for lighter loads.

Two main grades:

• Food-grade drums - Safe for storing food products. Cost more but cleaner.
• Industrial-grade drums - For non-food items like chemicals or waste. Less expensive.

Where to Buy Used Metal Drums in Memphis

RePackify Memphis

RePackify specializes in used drums. They clean and test each drum before selling. You can buy one drum or hundreds. They offer pickup and delivery in Memphis.

What they sell: Open-head and tight-head steel drums Best for: Businesses needing reliable, tested drums

Local Industrial Suppliers

Several Memphis companies sell used drums alongside other industrial equipment. These include:

• Packaging companies on Tulane Road
• Steel suppliers on Democrat Road and Dunlap Street
• Equipment distributors on Summer Avenue

What they sell: Mixed inventory of used drums Best for: Buyers who need drums plus other equipment

Scrap and Steel Yards

Metal processing companies often have used drums available. You might find good deals, but drums may need more work.

What they sell: Salvage drums, drum shells Best for: Handy buyers willing to do repairs

How to Choose the Right Drum

Ask these questions:

What will you store in the drum?

Do you need food-grade quality?

Do you need to access the contents easily? (Choose open-head)

Will you pour liquids out? (Choose tight-head)

How many drums do you need?

Example:

• Storing cooking oil = food-grade, tight-head drum
• Storing grain = food-grade, open-head drum
• Storing motor oil = industrial-grade, tight-head drum
• Storing scrap metal = industrial-grade, open-head drum

What to Check Before Buying

Look for these problems:

• Big dents that weaken the drum
• Rust holes or deep rust
• Damaged rim where the lid fits
• Missing or broken closure rings
• Strong chemical smells

Ask the seller:

• What was stored in the drum before?
• Has it been cleaned?
• Are there any leaks?
• Can you return it if there's a problem?

Safety Rules

Before using any used drum:

Clean it thoroughly, even if the seller says it's clean

Check for leaks by filling with water

Never store food in drums that held chemicals

Label each drum with its contents

Store drums on pallets, not directly on the ground

When moving drums:

• Use a drum dolly for rolling
• Use a forklift for lifting (with proper attachments)
• Never try to lift a full drum by hand
• Wear safety gear

Typical Prices in Memphis

Used 55-gallon steel drums:

• Industrial grade: $25-35 each
• Food grade: $35-50 each
• Bulk discounts: 10-20% off for 50+ drums

Extra costs to consider:

• Delivery: $50-100 depending on distance
• Cleaning supplies: $10-20 per drum
• Handling equipment rental: $30-50 per day

What to Do with Old Drums

When your drums wear out, recycle them properly:

Recycling options in Memphis:

• Scrap metal yards pay $0.10-0.15 per pound
• City recycling centers accept clean drums for free
• Some suppliers take back old drums for credit

Before recycling:

• Remove all contents completely
• Take off labels and rings
• Clean thoroughly if required

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy from sellers who:

• Won't let you inspect drums first
• Can't tell you what was stored in the drums
• Offer prices that seem too good to be true
• Don't have a business address
• Won't provide any paperwork

Don't buy drums that:

• Held unknown chemicals
• Have strong chemical odors
• Show signs of hazardous waste labels
• Are severely damaged or corroded

Getting Started

Step 1: Decide what you need

• How many drums?
• What size?
• Food-grade or industrial?
• Open-head or tight-head?

Step 2: Contact 3-4 local suppliers

• Compare prices
• Ask about delivery
• Check their return policy

Step 3: Inspect before buying

• Look for damage
• Check the seller's reputation
• Get everything in writing

Step 4: Plan for safe handling

• Rent or buy moving equipment
• Prepare storage area
• Have cleaning supplies ready

Used metal drums offer excellent value when you know what to look for. Memphis has many good suppliers, but always inspect before buying and prioritize safety over savings.