Buy Used Metal Drums in Fairfax

Save Money on Metal Drums: Your Guide to Buying Used in Fairfax, VA

What you'll get from reading this: Learn how to find quality used metal drums at great prices in Fairfax, save money on storage solutions, and avoid common buying mistakes.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

You can save 60-80% compared to new drums while getting the same storage capacity. Used drums work great for:

• Storing liquids safely
• Organizing bulk materials
• Creating rain barrels
• Building compost bins
• Emergency water storage

What Types of Used Drums Are Available?

Two main styles:

• Open-head drums - removable top, good for solids and easy access
• Tight-head drums - sealed top with small openings, best for liquids

Common sizes:

• 30-gallon drums: $30-50
• 55-gallon drums: $50-90
• 85-gallon drums: $80-120

What affects the price:

• Condition (rust, dents, cleanliness)
• Interior lining
• UN safety ratings
• Age and previous use

Where to Find Used Drums in Fairfax

Local suppliers:

• RePackify (Falls Church and Annandale) - professionally cleaned and tested drums
• Scrap metal dealers throughout Fairfax County
• Industrial recycling centers
• Online marketplaces

How to Inspect Used Drums

Check these things before buying:

Outside the drum:

• Look for rust spots or holes
• Check for deep dents that weaken the structure
• Make sure the rim is round and undamaged
• Test that handles are secure

Inside the drum:

• Smell for strong chemical odors
• Look for coating or liner damage
• Check for rust or corrosion
• Make sure there's no dried residue

Safety markings:

• Find UN rating stamps (like A2X205S)
• Check manufacture date
• Look for hazardous material symbols

What to Ask the Seller

Important questions:

• What was stored in the drum before?
• Has it been cleaned professionally?
• Are there any dents or repairs?
• Do you have the cleaning records?
• What's your return policy?

Red flags to avoid:

• Seller won't tell you what was stored inside
• Strong chemical smells
• Visible rust holes or cracks
• No safety markings
• Price seems too good to be true

Safety Rules You Must Follow

Before using any used drum:

• Clean it thoroughly with soap and water
• Let it dry completely
• Never use for food or drinking water unless it's food-grade
• Check local rules about storing chemicals
• Keep receipts and documentation

Virginia regulations:

• Empty drums from non-hazardous materials can be reused
• Hazardous material drums need special cleaning
• Some uses require permits
• Improper disposal can result in fines

Getting the Best Price

Negotiation tips:

• Buy multiple drums for bulk discounts
• Inspect carefully and point out any flaws
• Ask about delivery costs upfront
• Compare prices from 3-4 sources
• Consider pickup vs. delivery costs

When to buy:

• End of industrial quarters (March, June, September, December)
• When companies are moving locations
• During facility cleanouts
• Off-season for your industry

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't:

• Buy without inspecting first
• Use for food without proper certification
• Ignore safety markings
• Skip the cleaning process
• Store in direct sunlight (causes deterioration)

Do:

• Keep documentation of what you buy
• Test for leaks before first use
• Store in covered areas when possible
• Plan for proper disposal when done

Cost Comparison

New drums:

• 30-gallon: $150-200
• 55-gallon: $200-300
• 85-gallon: $300-400

Used drums:

• 30-gallon: $30-50
• 55-gallon: $50-90
• 85-gallon: $80-120

Your savings: $100-200 per drum

Transportation Tips

Moving drums safely:

• Use a truck or trailer, not a car
• Secure drums so they won't roll
• Bring tie-down straps or rope
• Get help loading - drums are heavy
• Check your vehicle's weight limit

Delivery options:

• Many suppliers offer delivery for $25-50
• Some include delivery in bulk orders
• Calculate if delivery costs less than truck rental

Final Recommendations

For beginners:

• Start with one drum to test your needs
• Choose open-head for easier cleaning
• Buy from RePackify for guaranteed quality
• Keep it simple - avoid complex UN ratings

For experienced buyers:

• Develop relationships with local suppliers
• Consider bulk purchases for better pricing
• Set up regular pickup arrangements
• Keep detailed records for tax purposes

Remember: A good used drum should last 10-20 years with proper care. The money you save buying used can fund other important projects.

Your next step: Visit RePackify in Falls Church or Annandale to see their selection in person. This hands-on approach helps you understand quality differences and builds confidence for future purchases.