Showing 15 of 24 published Metal Drums listings near Coppell, TX.
Average pricing by condition based on 3 active listings
| Condition | Avg. Price | Available Qty | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used | $10.00 | 631 | 3 |
Prices reflect current market averages for metal drums in Coppell, TX, with 631 units available across all conditions. View full price index
What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find good used metal drums, what to look for, and how to avoid costly mistakes. Save hundreds of dollars compared to buying new.
Used metal drums cost 50-70% less than new ones. You can find quality 55-gallon drums for $15-40 instead of $80-120 new. Plus, you're helping the environment by reusing materials.
Common uses for used drums:
Rain water collection
Storage for dry goods
Waste oil collection
DIY projects like smokers or planters
Small business storage needs
Tight head drums (closed top):
Fixed top with small openings
Best for liquids
Common sizes: 30, 55 gallons
Open head drums
Showing 15 of 24 published Metal Drums listings near Coppell, TX.
Lid comes off completely
Good for solids and powders
Easier to clean inside
Drum grades you'll see:
Grade A: Like new condition, food safe
Grade B: Good condition, some wear
Grade C: Basic condition, utility use only
Best for: Reliable quality and selection
Three main suppliers serve the Coppell area:
Dallas area drum refurbisher - Good selection, cleaned drums
Statewide distributor - Can source hard-to-find types
Bulk supplier - Best prices for large orders
What to expect:
Prices: $15-50 per drum
Pickup usually required
Some offer delivery for large orders
Accept credit cards
Best for: Rock-bottom prices
Two local options:
Municipal recycling centers
Scrap metal dealers
What to expect:
Prices: $5-15 per drum
Limited selection
No guarantees on condition
Cash only at some locations
May need cleaning
Look for:
Rust spots (small ones are okay)
Dents (minor ones won't hurt)
Intact lid and gaskets
Readable labels about previous contents
Avoid:
Heavy rust or holes
Badly dented sides
Missing or damaged lids
Unknown chemical residue
Safe previous contents:
Food products
Soap or detergent
Water-based materials
Risky previous contents:
Chemicals
Petroleum products
Paint or solvents
Red flags:
No label about previous contents
Hazardous material symbols
Strong chemical smells
55-gallon drums (most common):
35 inches tall
23 inches wide
Weighs 40 pounds empty
30-gallon drums:
Shorter and lighter
Good for home use
Easier to move around
Essential questions:
What was stored in this drum?
Has it been cleaned?
Are there any holes or major damage?
Can I inspect it first?
What's your return policy?
For food-grade drums:
Is it FDA approved?
Do you have cleaning certificates?
What grade is it?
Before using any drum:
Clean it thoroughly
Check for chemical residue
Look for structural damage
Test lids and gaskets
When transporting:
Use proper tie-downs
Don't stack more than 2 high
Keep drums upright
Bring help - they're heavy
For storage:
Keep on level ground
Use spill containment if needed
Check regularly for rust
Store in dry area when possible
Don't:
Buy drums with unknown previous contents
Skip the inspection
Forget about transportation costs
Assume all drums are food-safe
Buy more than you can transport
Do:
Inspect each drum individually
Ask lots of questions
Plan your pickup carefully
Start with a small order
Keep receipts and contact info
Decide what you need
How many drums?
What size?
What will you store?
Contact suppliers
Ask about current inventory
Get price quotes
Schedule inspection time
Inspect the drums
Check condition
Verify previous contents
Test lids and gaskets
Negotiate if buying multiple
Ask about bulk discounts
Confirm pickup arrangements
Understand return policy
Arrange pickup
Bring proper vehicle
Bring help for loading
Bring cash or card
Clean before use
Wash thoroughly
Remove all residue
Let dry completely
Buy in bulk: Most suppliers offer discounts for 10+ drums
Time your purchase: Prices may be lower in winter months
Consider Grade B: Often just as good as Grade A for non-food uses
Check multiple sources: Prices can vary by $10-20 per drum
Pick up yourself: Delivery fees add up quickly
Suspicious situations:
Seller won't let you inspect drums
No information about previous contents
Prices that seem too good to be true
Pressure to buy immediately
No business address or phone
Problem drums:
Strong chemical odors
Hazmat labels still attached
Excessive rust or damage
Leaking or wet drums
Drums stored in poor conditions
For beginners: Start with 1-2 drums from a local supplier. Pay a bit more for peace of mind.
For regular users: Build relationships with multiple suppliers. This ensures steady supply and better prices.
For large projects: Contact suppliers early. Good drums sell fast, especially in spring and summer.
Best overall approach: Inspect everything, ask questions, and don't rush. A good used drum will serve you for years.
Remember: The cheapest drum isn't always the best deal. Factor in cleaning time, transportation, and potential problems. A slightly more expensive drum that's ready to use often saves money in the long run.