Buy Used Metal Drums in Nashville

Save Money and Find Quality Used Metal Drums in Nashville

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to buy reliable used metal drums in Nashville, understand fair pricing, and avoid common buying mistakes that cost you time and money.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums offer real benefits:

• Save 40-60% compared to new drums
• Help the environment by reusing materials
• Get the same durability as new drums when properly reconditioned
• Available immediately (no waiting for manufacturing)

What Types of Metal Drums You Can Find

Two main styles:

• Tight-head drums: Fixed top, best for liquids like water or chemicals
• Open-head drums: Removable lid, perfect for solids or thick materials

Common sizes:

• 55-gallon (most popular)
• 30-gallon (easier to handle)
• 16-gallon (small projects)

Materials:

• Carbon steel (standard, works for most uses)
• Stainless steel (food-grade, costs more but lasts longer)

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Nashville

Types of sellers:

• Industrial packaging suppliers
• Drum reconditioning companies
• Salvage yards
• Chemical companies selling their empties

What to look for in a seller:

• Clean, organized facility
• Willing to let you inspect drums
• Provides documentation of previous contents
• Offers delivery service
• Has good online reviews

How Much You Should Pay

Typical Nashville prices:

• Basic used 55-gallon drum: $35-$55
• Reconditioned 55-gallon drum: $60-$100
• Stainless steel drums: $125+
• Open-head drums: $10-20 more than tight-head

Money-saving tips:

• Buy in bulk (48+ drums) for better prices
• Ask about "salvage grade" drums if you can do your own cleaning
• Check for seasonal price drops in winter months

What "Reconditioned" Really Means

Standard reconditioning includes:

• Pressure washing inside and out
• Removing old labels and residue
• Checking for dents and leaks
• Testing structural integrity
• Adding new gaskets if needed

UN certification: Some drums get official certification for hazardous materials. This costs more but may be required for your use.

Questions to Ask Before Buying

About the drum's history:

• What was stored in it before?
• Has it been cleaned?
• Any dents or rust spots?
• Does it come with a lid and ring?

About the seller:

• Can I inspect before buying?
• Do you deliver?
• What's your return policy?
• Can you provide documentation?

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy drums that:

• Smell strongly of chemicals
• Have visible rust holes
• Previously held unknown substances
• Come from sellers who won't let you inspect them
• Are priced way below market (probably damaged)

Simple Inspection Checklist

Look for:

• Smooth, dent-free sides
• Clean interior
• Tight-fitting lid
• No rust spots
• Readable labels or markings

Test:

• Roll the drum gently (should be round)
• Check if the lid seals properly
• Look inside with a flashlight

Getting Your Drums Delivered

Delivery options:

• Truck delivery (most common)
• Pickup with your own truck
• Pallet shipment for smaller orders

Delivery tips:

• Make sure you have equipment to unload
• Check drums immediately upon arrival
• Have space cleared for storage

Common Uses for These Drums

Popular applications:

• Rainwater collection
• Food storage (use food-grade only)
• Chemical storage
• Parts washing
• Waste collection
• DIY projects (smokers, planters)

Bottom Line

Buying used metal drums in Nashville is straightforward when you know what to look for. Start with reputable suppliers, inspect before buying, and don't be afraid to ask questions. A good used drum will serve you for years and save you significant money compared to buying new.

The key is finding the right balance between price and quality for your specific needs.