How to Buy Used Metal Drums in Kaysville, Utah: A Simple Guide
What you'll get from this guide:
- Save money on drums compared to buying new
- Find reliable local suppliers near you
- Know what to look for when buying used drums
- Avoid common mistakes that waste time and money
Why Buy Used Metal Drums?
Used metal drums cost 40-70% less than new ones. You'll find plenty of good options in Kaysville because local businesses regularly replace their drum inventory. Plus, you're helping the environment by reusing materials.
What You Need to Know Before Buying
Two Main Types of Drums
Open-head drums:
- Have removable lids
- Good for storing solid materials
- Easy to clean and inspect inside
- Perfect for compost, grain, or parts storage
Tight-head drums:
- Have permanent tops with small openings
- Better for liquids
- Harder to clean but more secure
- Good for water storage or liquid transport
Drum Conditions to Look For
Grade A drums:
- No dents or rust
- Original coatings intact
- Cost 15-25% more but worth it for food or water storage
Grade B drums:
- Minor scratches or small dents
- Still structurally sound
- Good for general storage
Grade C drums:
- Need some repairs
- Cheapest option
- Fine for non-critical uses like planters
Where to Find Used Drums in Kaysville
Local Suppliers
RePackify
- Offers bulk discounts
- Delivery available
- Good for businesses needing many drums
What to Avoid
Don't buy drums that previously held:
- Pesticides or chemicals
- Paint or solvents
- Unknown substances
These can be dangerous and hard to clean properly.
How to Inspect Used Drums
Check the Outside
- Look for rust spots or deep dents
- Make sure the bottom isn't damaged
- Check that handles are secure
Check the Inside
- Smell for chemical odors
- Look for coating damage
- Check for rust or corrosion
Check for Certification
- Look for UN rating stamps
- These are required for hazardous material transport
- Don't worry about this for basic storage
Pricing and How to Save Money
Typical Prices in Kaysville
- Grade A: $25-40 per drum
- Grade B: $15-25 per drum
- Grade C: $8-15 per drum
Ways to Save
- Buy in bulk (10+ drums get better prices)
- Pick up yourself to avoid delivery fees
- Buy Grade B for most uses
- Shop around - prices vary significantly
Negotiation Tips
- Ask about volume discounts
- Request cleaning services for free
- See if they'll hold drums until you need them
Common Uses for Used Drums
For Homeowners
- Rainwater collection systems
- Compost bins (remove the top)
- Storage for garden tools
- Outdoor fire barrels (with proper ventilation)
For Businesses
- Water storage for operations
- Waste collection
- Parts and materials storage
- Mixing containers for non-food items
For Farms
- Feed storage
- Water troughs
- Composting systems
- Equipment storage
Safety and Legal Requirements
Cleaning Requirements
- Always clean drums before use
- Use hot water and degreasing soap
- Let dry completely
- Consider professional cleaning for food/water use
Local Regulations
- Check with Kaysville city offices about storage limits
- Some areas restrict outdoor drum storage
- Water collection may have guidelines
Transportation
- Secure drums properly in vehicles
- Don't exceed weight limits
- Use proper tie-downs
When Your Drums Are Done
Recycling Options
- Clearfield Recycling accepts clean metal drums
- Davis Landfill has scrap metal recycling
- Remove all contents first
- Clean thoroughly before recycling
Disposal Rules
- Never throw drums in regular trash
- Remove all labels and contents
- Some recyclers pay for scrap metal
Red Flags to Avoid
Don't buy drums that:
- Smell strongly of chemicals
- Have no visible markings about previous contents
- Are severely dented or damaged
- Come from unknown sources
- Are priced too low (may indicate problems)
Getting Started
Decide what you need: How many drums and what type?
Set your budget: Include delivery costs
Visit The Docks first: Easy to inspect and compare
Check multiple suppliers: Prices vary significantly
Inspect before buying: Don't buy sight unseen
Plan for cleaning: Budget time and supplies
Final Tips
- Start with one or two drums to test your needs
- Build relationships with suppliers for better deals
- Keep receipts for warranty or return purposes
- Ask suppliers about their return policy
- Consider seasonal demand - prices may be lower in winter
Used metal drums offer excellent value for storage and projects around Kaysville. With proper inspection and smart shopping, you'll find quality containers that serve your needs for years at a fraction of new drum costs.