Buy Used Plastic Drums in Ohio

Save Money on Storage: Buy Used Plastic Drums in Ohio

What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to find quality used plastic drums in Ohio for 40-60% less than new ones, plus discover reliable suppliers and avoid common buying mistakes.

Why Buy Used Plastic Drums?

You'll save serious money. Used 55-gallon drums cost $12-20 each versus $35-50 for new ones. Plus, you're helping the environment by reusing containers instead of creating demand for new plastic.

What Types of Drums Can You Find?

By size:

• 15-gallon drums (perfect for small workshops)
• 30-gallon drums (great for medium storage needs)
• 55-gallon drums (the most common size for businesses)

By top style:

• Tight-head drums: Fixed tops with screw-in caps (like a giant milk jug)
• Open-head drums: Removable lids with clamp rings (easier to fill and clean)

By grade:

• Food-grade drums: Safe for storing edible products
• Industrial drums: Fine for chemicals, paints, or non-food items

Where to Find Used Drums in Ohio

Local suppliers:

RePackify Marketplace: Online platform connecting you with local sellers statewide

What you'll pay:

• Columbus area: Around $12 per 55-gallon drum
• Dayton area: Around $13 per drum
• Toledo area: Around $13 per drum
• Warren area: Around $20 per drum

Note: Prices drop when you buy in bulk. Food-grade drums cost more than industrial ones.

What to Look For When Buying

Start with these basics:

Check for cracks or dents in the walls

Make sure the lid fits tight

Look for UN-rating stamps (proves they meet safety standards)

Ask if they've been cleaned and reconditioned

For food storage:

• Only buy food-grade drums
• Make sure they're properly cleaned
• Ask what was stored in them previously

For hazardous materials:

• Verify UN-rating marks
• Check recent reconditioning stamps
• Ensure compliance with DOT rules

Smart Buying Tips

Save money:

• Buy in bulk for better prices
• Pick up locally to avoid delivery fees
• Compare prices from multiple suppliers

Avoid problems:

• Don't buy drums that held unknown chemicals
• Skip drums with permanent odors
• Avoid drums with damaged threads or seals

Example: If you need 50 drums for your auto shop, calling Valley Drum for a bulk quote might save you $200-300 compared to buying individually.

Simple Rules for Legal Use

For regular storage: Most used drums work fine for non-hazardous liquids like water, oils, or food products.

For hazardous materials: You need properly reconditioned drums with current certifications. The supplier should handle this for you.

When in doubt: Ask the supplier if the drums meet your specific needs. Good suppliers know the rules and will guide you.

Getting Started

Figure out what you need: How many drums? What size? Food-grade or industrial?

Call 2-3 suppliers: Get quotes and ask about condition

Visit if possible: Seeing drums in person helps you judge quality

Start small: Buy a few drums first to test the supplier

Build relationships: Good suppliers will save you money long-term

Used plastic drums offer an excellent way to cut storage costs while helping the environment. With Ohio's strong network of suppliers, you can find quality containers that meet your needs without breaking your budget.