Buy Used Plastic Drums in Saint Augustine, FL

Save Money on Storage: Your Guide to Buying Used Plastic Drums in Saint Augustine

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to find quality used plastic drums in Saint Augustine, how to inspect them safely, and save 50-70% compared to buying new ones.

If you need containers for water storage, chemicals, or other materials, used plastic drums offer a smart solution. They cost much less than new drums and work just as well when you know what to look for.

Why Choose Used Plastic Drums?

Used plastic drums give you three main benefits:

Save money: Pay $15-50 for a 55-gallon drum instead of $80-150 for new ones.

Help the environment: Keep plastic out of landfills by reusing containers.

Get proven durability: These drums already proved they can handle real-world use.

Most used drums are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). This plastic resists chemicals, won't rust, and lasts for years. You'll find two main types:

• Open-head drums have removable lids (good for solid materials)

• Closed-head drums have small openings on top (best for liquids)

Where to Find Used Drums in Saint Augustine

Online Marketplaces

RePackify runs the best online marketplace for used drums in Saint Augustine. They clean and test each drum before selling it. You can search by size, type, and condition. Most customers get their drums within 2-3 days.

The platform shows you:

• Clear photos of each drum

• What was stored in it before

• Test results for leaks

• Food-grade certification (when available)

Local Recycling Centers

Recycling centers often have used drums at the lowest prices. These drums may need more cleaning, but they work well for non-food uses like:

• Rainwater collection

• Compost bins

• Emergency water storage

• Workshop storage

Call ahead to check what's available. Inventory changes weekly based on what businesses bring in.

Industrial Suppliers

Some industrial suppliers in the area sell refurbished drums. These cost more than recycling center drums but come with:

• Professional cleaning

• Leak testing

• UN certification for shipping hazardous materials

• Warranties

How to Inspect Used Drums

Before buying any used drum, check these key areas:

Outside the drum:

• Look for cracks, especially around the bottom

• Check that the drum sits flat (no warping)

• Make sure handles are solid

• See if the color is even (fading is normal, but avoid patchy discoloration)

Inside the drum:

• Smell inside - strong chemical odors mean avoid it

• Look for stains or residue

• Check that the bottom isn't cracked

• Make sure the opening threads aren't stripped

Labels and markings:

• UN numbers show it can carry hazardous materials

• FDA markings mean it's safe for food

• Date codes tell you how old the drum is

Simple test: Fill the drum with water and let it sit for 30 minutes. Any leaks will show up quickly.

What You'll Pay

Expect these price ranges in Saint Augustine:

• Basic used drums: $15-25 each

• Cleaned and tested: $25-40 each

• Food-grade certified: $35-50 each

• UN-rated for chemicals: $40-60 each

Money-saving tips:

• Buy 10 or more drums for bulk discounts

• Pick up drums yourself to avoid delivery fees

• Check multiple sources before buying

• Consider slightly damaged drums for non-critical uses

Common Uses for Used Drums

Water storage: Great for emergency water or rainwater collection. A 55-gallon drum holds enough water for a family of four for several days.

Garden projects: Cut drums in half for large planters. Use whole drums as compost bins.

Workshop storage: Store bulk materials like sand, salt, or animal feed.

Chemical storage: With proper certification, these drums safely store oils, cleaners, and other chemicals.

Safety and Legal Points

Know what was in the drum before. Never use drums that held:

• Pesticides

• Paint or solvents

• Unknown chemicals

• Anything toxic

Check local rules. Some areas have restrictions on:

• Water storage containers

• Chemical storage

• Rainwater collection

Get the right certification. For business use, you may need:

• UN certification for shipping

• FDA approval for food contact

• DOT compliance for transport

Moving and Storing Your Drums

Transportation:

• Empty drums fit easily in pickup trucks

• Stack carefully to prevent rolling

• Tie down securely for transport

Storage:

• Keep drums out of direct sunlight

• Store in dry areas to prevent label damage

• Stack no more than 3 high when full

• Leave space between drums for air circulation

Environmental Benefits

When you buy used drums, you:

• Keep 40-60 pounds of plastic out of landfills

• Reduce energy needed to make new drums by 60%

• Support local recycling businesses

• Lower transportation emissions

When your drums reach end of life, many recycling centers will take them back to make new plastic products.

Getting Started

Here's your action plan:

Decide what you need: How many drums? What size? Any special requirements?

Check RePackify first: Their Saint Augustine marketplace has the best selection and quality control.

Compare prices: Look at 2-3 sources before buying.

Inspect before paying: Use the checklist above.

Plan pickup or delivery: Have transport ready.

Test at home: Fill with water to check for leaks before using.

Used plastic drums offer an excellent way to get quality storage containers without paying new prices. With careful shopping and proper inspection, you'll find drums that serve you well for years while helping the environment.

Start your search today, and you could have quality storage containers delivered this week at a fraction of new drum costs.