Buy Used Metal Drums in Waukesha

Find Cheap Used Metal Drums in Waukesha, WI - Save Money on Storage

What you'll get from reading this: You'll know exactly where to buy used metal drums in Waukesha, how much to pay, and what to check before buying. This guide will save you money and help you avoid bad purchases.

Why Buy Used Metal Drums?

Used metal drums cost much less than new ones. Here's what you can save:

• New 55-gallon drum: $80-120
• Used 55-gallon drum: $20-40
• Your savings: $40-80 per drum

You also help the environment by reusing materials instead of buying new.

What Sizes You Can Find

Most common sizes:

• 55 gallons (most popular)
• 30 gallons
• 15 gallons
• 5 gallons

Less common but available:

• 85 gallons
• 110 gallons

How to Check if a Drum is Good

Before you buy, look for these problems:

Bad signs:

• Rust holes or deep rust
• Dents that won't let it roll
• Bent or missing lid rings
• Strong chemical smells
• Cracks in the metal

Good signs:

• Light surface rust only
• Lid fits tight
• No dents in the bottom
• Rolls smoothly
• Clean inside

What Used Drums Cost

Scrap yards:

• 55-gallon drums: $20-35
• 30-gallon drums: $15-25
• 15-gallon drums: $10-18

Supply stores:

• 55-gallon drums: $35-50
• 30-gallon drums: $25-35
• 15-gallon drums: $18-28

Online:

• Prices vary widely
• Often higher due to individual sellers
• Good for hard-to-find sizes

Common Uses for Used Metal Drums

Around the house:

• Rain water collection
• Compost bins
• Storage for garden tools
• Burn barrels (check local laws)

Small business:

• Oil storage
• Chemical storage
• Waste collection
• Food storage (food-grade only)

Farm use:

• Animal feed storage
• Water storage
• Liquid fertilizer
• Equipment cleaning

Safety Tips

Before using any drum:

• Clean it completely
• Check what was stored in it before
• Never use chemical drums for food or water
• Use proper safety gear when cleaning

For food storage:

• Only buy food-grade drums
• Look for FDA approval markings
• Clean with food-safe cleaners
• Replace gaskets if needed

Questions to Ask Before Buying

Ask the seller:

• What was stored in it?
• How old is it?
• Does the lid seal properly?
• Are there any leaks?
• Can I inspect it first?

Ask yourself:

• What will I use it for?
• Do I need food-grade?
• Can I transport it?
• Is the price fair?

How to Transport Your Drums

Small drums (15-30 gallons):

• Most cars can handle these
• Use blankets to protect your car
• Secure them so they don't roll

Large drums (55+ gallons):

• Need a truck or trailer
• Use straps or rope to secure
• Load carefully - they're heavy when empty

Best Times to Buy

When prices are lowest:

• Winter months (less demand)
• End of business quarters
• When scrap metal prices are low

When selection is best:

• Spring (businesses clean out)
• After industrial closures
• Following large construction projects

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't buy if:

• Seller won't let you inspect
• Price seems too good to be true
• Drum has hazardous waste labels
• Strong chemical odors
• Seller can't say what was in it

Getting the Best Deal

Tips for negotiating:

• Buy multiple drums for discount
• Bring cash
• Point out any defects
• Be ready to walk away
• Ask about delivery options

Bulk buying benefits:

• Lower price per drum
• Seller more likely to negotiate
• Often includes delivery
• Good for business use

Final Checklist Before You Buy

• [ ] Inspected the drum completely
• [ ] Know what was stored in it
• [ ] Price is fair for the condition
• [ ] Can transport it safely
• [ ] Suitable for your intended use
• [ ] Seller seems honest and knowledgeable

Bottom Line

Used metal drums in Waukesha are easy to find and can save you serious money. Start with local scrap yards for the best prices. Always inspect before buying. Know what you'll use it for before you shop. With these tips, you'll find quality drums at great prices.

The key is being patient and checking multiple sources. Don't rush into the first deal you find. Take time to compare prices and conditions. Your wallet will thank you.