Buy Used Metal Drums in Bennington

How to Find Cheap Used Metal Drums in Bennington, VT (And Save Money on Storage)

What you'll learn: Where to buy quality used metal drums in Bennington, how much they cost, and what to check before buying.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums cost 50-70% less than new ones. A new 55-gallon drum costs $80-120. A used one costs $20-50.

You help the environment too. Instead of making new metal, you reuse what already exists.

What Are Metal Drums Good For?

• Water storage for farms
• Rainwater collection
• Storing feed for animals
• Bulk food storage
• Emergency water supply
• DIY projects like planters or burn barrels

Where to Buy Used Drums in Bennington

Local hardware stores often have used drums. Call first to check availability.

Farm supply stores sell drums to farmers and rural customers. They usually have both used and new options.

Scrap yards and recycling centers sometimes sell drums they've cleaned up.

Online marketplaces like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace have local sellers.

Industrial suppliers in the area specialize in containers and drums.

What to Check Before You Buy

Look inside the drum. Make sure it's clean and doesn't smell bad. Rust spots are okay if they're small.

Check the outside. Look for dents or holes. Small dents are fine, but avoid drums with holes or deep rust.

Ask what was stored in it. Avoid drums that held chemicals or anything toxic. Food-grade drums are safest.

Test the lid. Make sure it opens and closes properly. Check that rubber seals aren't cracked.

Verify the size. Standard drums hold 55 gallons, but some are 30 or 85 gallons.

Typical Prices in Bennington

• Basic used drums: $20-30 each
• Food-grade drums: $35-50 each
• Reconditioned drums: $40-60 each
• Bulk orders (10+ drums): 10-20% discount

Two Types of Drums

Open-head drums have removable lids. Great for storing dry goods like grain or for easy cleaning.

Tight-head drums have small openings with screw caps. Better for liquids.

Getting Your Drums Home

Most drums are heavy (15-30 pounds empty). Bring help or a truck.

Some sellers deliver for a fee ($20-50 depending on distance).

Cleaning Your Used Drum

Rinse with water first

Use dish soap and a long brush

For tough smells, try baking soda and water

Let it dry completely before using

Safety Rules

• Never use drums that held chemicals for food or water
• Check local rules about rainwater collection
• Keep drums covered to prevent mosquitos
• Secure drums so they won't tip over

When to Buy New Instead

Buy new drums if you're storing drinking water or food. The extra cost is worth the safety.

Also buy new if you need drums certified for shipping hazardous materials.

Questions to Ask Sellers

• What was stored in this drum?
• Has it been cleaned?
• Are there any holes or leaks?
• Can I inspect it before buying?
• Do you offer any guarantee?

Bottom Line

Used metal drums are a smart buy if you need cheap, durable storage. Check them carefully before buying, clean them well, and they'll last for years.

Start by calling local farm supply stores and checking online marketplaces. Compare prices from 3-4 sources before deciding.

The money you save can add up quickly, especially if you need several drums.