Save Money on Storage: Where to Buy Used Plastic Drums in Scottsdale
What you'll gain: You'll discover how to get quality 55-gallon plastic drums for just $16 each in Scottsdale, plus learn what to look for when buying used containers.
Why Choose Used Plastic Drums?
Used drums cost 50-70% less than new ones. A new 55-gallon drum costs $40-80. Used drums start at $16. You get the same storage capacity for much less money.
Local Suppliers in Scottsdale
RePackify
- Location: Scottsdale (85251) and throughout Arizona
- What they offer: 55-gallon white HDPE drums, used condition
- Special feature: Food-grade options available
- Price: Starting at $16 each
What You're Actually Buying
Basic Drum Facts
- Size: 55 gallons (208 liters)
- Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) - tough plastic that won't rust
- Dimensions: 23 inches wide, 35 inches tall
- Weight: About 20 pounds empty
Two Main Types
- Closed-head drums: Have two small screw-on caps (called bungs)
- Open-head drums: Have a removable lid you can take completely off
Condition Levels
- Used: Previously held liquids, cleaned and inspected
- Food-grade: Safe for storing drinking water or food ingredients
- Reconditioned: Professionally restored, like-new condition
Pricing Guide
Small Quantities (1-50 drums)
- Basic used drums: $16-20 each
- Food-grade drums: $18-25 each
- Pick up yourself: Often saves $3-5 per drum
Bulk Orders (100+ drums)
- Volume discounts: Usually 10-20% off
- Freight delivery: Required for large orders
- Best for: Businesses or community groups
What to Check Before Buying
Essential Inspections
Look for cracks: Run your hand around the entire drum
Check the top rim: Should be smooth and round
Smell test: No strong chemical odors
Bounce test: Tap the sides - should sound solid, not hollow
Important Questions to Ask
- Was this drum food-grade originally?
- What was stored in it before?
- Has it been professionally cleaned?
- Do you offer any guarantee?
Common Uses for Used Drums
Around the House
- Rainwater collection: One drum holds 55 gallons of water
- Emergency water storage: Keep several for disaster preparedness
- Compost bins: Cut the top off for easy access
- Storage containers: Tools, seasonal items, animal feed
For Businesses
- Chemical storage: Non-hazardous liquids and powders
- Food service: Ingredients like oils, syrups, or dry goods
- Manufacturing: Raw materials and finished products
- Waste management: Liquid waste collection
Money-Saving Tips
Buy Smart
- Buy in spring: Demand is lower, prices better
- Group purchases: Split a bulk order with neighbors
- Pick up yourself: Saves delivery fees
- Negotiate: Ask about discounts for cash payment
Avoid These Mistakes
- Don't buy drums that held unknown chemicals
- Don't skip the smell test
- Don't buy cracked or dented drums
- Don't forget to ask about food-grade certification
Getting Your Drums Home
Small Orders (1-10 drums)
- Pickup truck: Can fit 4-6 drums standing up
- Trailer: Better for larger quantities
- Delivery: Usually $25-50 within Scottsdale area
Large Orders (50+ drums)
- Freight truck: Required for bulk orders
- Pallet delivery: Drums shrink-wrapped on pallets
- Delivery time: 1-3 business days typically
Final Advice
Start with RePackify in Scottsdale - they offer the best prices and know their drums are properly cleaned. If you need just a few drums, call ahead to check availability. For large orders, always get quotes from multiple suppliers.
Remember: A $16 used drum does the same job as a $60 new one. The savings add up quickly, especially for businesses or anyone needing multiple containers.