Buy Used Metal Drums in Lehi

How to Buy Quality Used Metal Drums in Lehi, Utah (And Save 30-50% on Storage Costs)

What you'll gain from reading this: Learn where to find reliable used metal drums in Lehi, how to inspect them properly, and avoid costly mistakes that could hurt your business.

Why Used Metal Drums Make Business Sense

Used metal drums can cut your storage costs by 30-50% compared to buying new ones. Here's what makes them valuable:

• Cost savings: A new 55-gallon steel drum costs $80-120. A quality used one costs $25-60
• Proven durability: Metal drums last 10-15 years with proper care
• Environmental benefits: Reusing drums reduces waste and supports recycling
• Quick availability: Local suppliers usually have stock ready

Metal drums work well for:

• Storing oils and chemicals
• Moving liquids safely
• Keeping dry goods like grains
• Emergency water storage

Types of Used Metal Drums You'll Find

Open-Head Drums

• Have removable lids
• Easy to clean and fill
• Good for thick liquids or solids
• Common sizes: 30, 55, 85 gallons

Tight-Head Drums

• Have fixed tops with small openings
• Better for liquids that splash
• Harder to clean inside
• More secure for transport

Materials

• Carbon steel: Cheapest option, prone to rust
• Stainless steel: Costs more but won't rust, good for food

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Lehi

Local Metal Suppliers

Several metal fabrication shops in Lehi sell used drums alongside new materials. These suppliers often get drums from:

• Manufacturing plants upgrading equipment
• Logistics companies replacing damaged inventory
• Chemical plants disposing of excess containers

What to expect:

• Prices: $25-60 per drum
• Selection: Mixed sizes and conditions
• Services: Basic cleaning, delivery options
• Best for: Bulk orders, standard drums

Container Specialists

Specialized drum suppliers focus only on containers. They usually offer:

• Better quality control
• Reconditioning services
• UN certification for hazardous materials
• Consistent inventory

What to expect:

• Prices: $40-80 per drum
• Selection: Consistent quality, multiple sizes
• Services: Pressure testing, lining replacement
• Best for: Food-grade needs, regulated materials

Auto Salvage Yards

Some auto recyclers sell steel drums recovered from vehicles and equipment. These drums often held oil or other automotive fluids.

What to expect:

• Prices: $15-35 per drum
• Selection: Variable condition, limited sizes
• Services: Minimal - usually sold as-is
• Best for: Non-food industrial use only

Online Platforms RePackify

RePackify serves the Lehi area with reconditioned drums. They offer:

• Standardized cleaning processes
• UN-rating compliance
• Delivery to your location
• Quality guarantees

Benefits of online ordering:

• Compare prices easily
• Read customer reviews
• Get specialty drums not available locally
• Convenient delivery scheduling

Drawbacks:

• Can't inspect before buying
• Shipping costs add to total price
• Longer lead times

How to Inspect Used Drums (Critical Step)

Never buy used drums without checking these key points:

External Inspection

• Look for rust: Surface rust is okay, but avoid deep pitting
• Check for dents: Small dents are fine, avoid major damage
• Examine seams: Look for cracks or previous repairs
• Test handles: Make sure they're secure and not bent

Internal Inspection

• Smell inside: Strong odors may indicate contamination
• Check for residue: Look for coating damage or chemical stains
• Examine the bottom: Water pooling shows poor drainage
• Test the lid seal: Should close tightly without gaps

Documentation Check

• UN markings: Required for hazardous materials
• Certification labels: Show reconditioning date and standards
• Previous contents: Avoid unknown chemicals

Pricing Guide and Negotiation Tips

Typical Prices in Lehi

• Basic carbon steel (fair condition): $25-40
• Good carbon steel (reconditioned): $40-60
• Stainless steel (any condition): $60-120
• UN-certified drums: Add $10-20 to base price

How to Get Better Prices

• Buy in bulk: Orders of 10+ drums often get 10-15% discounts
• Build relationships: Regular customers get priority and better rates
• Be flexible on timing: Non-urgent orders can wait for better inventory
• Consider mixed lots: Accepting various sizes/conditions reduces costs

Hidden Costs to Consider

• Delivery fees: $50-100 depending on distance and quantity
• Cleaning costs: $15-30 per drum if needed
• Reconditioning: $20-40 per drum for food-grade certification
• Disposal fees: Old drums may need special handling

Legal Requirements and Safety

When You Need Certified Drums

• Transporting hazardous materials
• Storing chemicals for commercial use
• Food and beverage applications
• Export/import shipping

Utah Regulations

• Hazardous waste: Must use UN-certified containers
• Food safety: Requires food-grade certification
• Environmental: Proper disposal of end-of-life drums required

Safety Best Practices

• Wear protection: Gloves, safety glasses when handling
• Ventilate work areas: Especially when cleaning drums
• Train employees: Proper lifting and handling techniques
• Label everything: Contents, hazard warnings, dates

Maintenance Tips to Extend Drum Life

Regular Cleaning

• Empty completely: Don't leave residue sitting
• Use appropriate cleaners: Match to previous contents
• Rinse thoroughly: Remove all cleaning chemicals
• Dry completely: Prevent rust formation

Storage Guidelines

• Keep drums off ground: Use pallets or racks
• Avoid direct sunlight: Prevents coating breakdown
• Control humidity: Reduces rust risk
• Rotate stock: Use oldest drums first

When to Replace

• Structural damage: Cracks, major dents, or holes
• Excessive rust: When metal thickness is compromised
• Seal failure: Lids won't close properly
• Contamination: When cleaning won't remove residue

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Buying Without Inspection

Problem: Hidden damage or contamination Solution: Always inspect in person or request detailed photos

Ignoring Previous Contents

Problem: Chemical contamination affecting your products Solution: Ask about drum history and get written documentation

Skipping Certification

Problem: Legal issues when transporting regulated materials Solution: Verify UN markings and certification dates

Buying Wrong Size

Problem: Drums too big/small for your needs Solution: Measure your storage space and calculate volume needs

Getting Started: Your Action Plan

Step 1: Define Your Needs

• How many drums do you need?
• What will you store in them?
• Do you need food-grade certification?
• What's your budget?

Step 2: Research Local Suppliers

• Contact 3-4 suppliers for quotes
• Ask about current inventory
• Schedule site visits
• Compare total costs including delivery

Step 3: Inspect Before Buying

• Bring a flashlight and measuring tape
• Check multiple drums in the lot
• Document any issues with photos
• Negotiate price based on condition

Step 4: Plan for Delivery and Storage

• Prepare receiving area
• Have handling equipment ready
• Plan drum storage layout
• Schedule any needed reconditioning

Buying used metal drums in Lehi can significantly reduce your storage costs while meeting your business needs. The key is finding reliable suppliers, inspecting carefully, and understanding what you're buying.

Start with local suppliers for immediate needs and competitive pricing. Use online platforms like RePackify for specialty requirements or when local inventory is limited. Always prioritize safety and compliance over saving a few dollars.

Remember: The cheapest drum isn't always the best value. A slightly more expensive drum that lasts longer and performs better will save money in the long run.

Take time to build relationships with suppliers, maintain your drums properly, and follow safety guidelines. This approach will ensure you get maximum value from your used drum purchases while protecting your business and employees.