Buy Used Metal Drums in Manassas

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

What you'll get from this guide: Find reliable sources for used metal drums in Manassas, save money compared to buying new, and avoid common purchasing mistakes.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

You can save 50-70% compared to new drums while getting containers that work just as well for most purposes. Used drums work great for:

• Storage in workshops and garages
• Agricultural applications like water storage
• Industrial purposes where food-grade isn't required
• DIY projects and crafts

Where to Find Used Metal Drums in Manassas

Local Scrap Metal Dealers

These are your best bet for cheap drums in bulk:

• Local recycling centers - They get steady supplies from businesses
• Scrap metal yards - Often have 55-gallon steel drums
• Salvage operations - Good for finding specific sizes

Pro tip: Visit on weekdays when they're less busy. Staff can tell you when new shipments arrive.

Specialized Barrel Suppliers

These cost more but offer better quality:

• Clean drums thoroughly before selling
• Test for leaks and structural problems
• Can certify food-grade drums if needed
• Replace worn parts like rings and bungs

Example: A refurbished food-grade drum might cost $40-60 versus $15-25 from a scrap dealer.

Hardware and Industrial Stores

• Sometimes have trade-in used drums
• Offer clearance on returned items
• Can special-order if you need many drums
• Usually focus on new inventory

Online Sources

RePackify connects you with local sellers of reconditioned steel barrels. They offer:

• Bulk discounts for large orders
• Custom specifications
• Delivery to your location
• Quality guarantees

What to Check Before Buying

Basic Inspection

Look for these problems:

• Dents that could weaken the drum
• Rust spots, especially around seams
• Damaged tops or bottoms
• Missing or broken closures

Ask These Questions

• What was stored in the drum before?
• Has it been cleaned?
• Are there any leaks or repairs?
• Do you offer any guarantee?

Special Requirements

You might need:

• Food-grade certification - For storing anything edible
• Chemical resistance - For harsh substances
• Specific sizes - 30-gallon, 55-gallon, etc.
• Open-top vs closed-top - Depending on your use

Pricing Guide

Here's what to expect:

Scrap dealers:

• Basic 55-gallon drum: $10-25
• Bulk orders (10+): $8-15 each

Refurbished suppliers:

• Standard grade: $25-40
• Food-grade: $40-60
• Specialty coatings: $50-80

Retail stores:

• Used/returned: $30-50
• New for comparison: $80-120

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not checking previous contents - Some chemicals leave residue that's hard to remove
• Ignoring small dents - They can turn into bigger problems
• Buying without seeing - Always inspect before purchasing
• Forgetting about transportation - Factor in delivery or pickup costs

Getting the Best Deal

Build relationships with suppliers

• Visit regularly to see new inventory
• Ask to be called when specific drums arrive
• Buy in bulk when possible

Time your purchases

• End of month when dealers want to clear inventory
• After major industrial cleanouts
• During slow business periods

Negotiate smartly

• Point out any defects you find
• Offer to buy multiple drums
• Pay cash when possible

Final Tips

Start with local scrap dealers for the best prices. Move to specialized suppliers only if you need higher quality or specific certifications. Always inspect drums in person before buying, and remember that a slightly higher price for a properly cleaned drum often saves money in the long run.

The key is matching your needs to the right supplier. For basic storage, scrap dealers work fine. For food or chemical storage, invest in properly refurbished drums from specialists like RePackify.