Save Money and Help the Environment: Your Complete Guide to Used Plastic Drums in Oregon
What you'll get from this guide: Learn how to find quality used plastic drums at great prices, avoid costly mistakes, and choose the right supplier for your needs in Oregon.
Why Buy Used Plastic Drums?
You can save 50-80% compared to new drums while keeping containers out of landfills. Perfect for:
- Rainwater collection for your garden
- Emergency water storage
- Chemical storage for farms or workshops
- Composting systems
Types of Used Drums You'll Find
55-Gallon Food-Grade Drums (Fixed Top)
- Size: 55 gallons
- Top: Tight-head with 2 small openings
- Safe for: Drinking water, food storage
- Previous contents: Organic foods, syrups
- Price: Around $12 each
55-Gallon Food-Grade Drums (Removable Lid)
- Size: 55 gallons
- Top: Open-head with removable ring
- Safe for: Food contact, easy cleaning
- Previous contents: Food ingredients
- Price: Varies by supplier
55-Gallon Non-Food-Grade Drums
- Size: 55 gallons
- Top: Fixed with 2 openings
- Safe for: Non-food liquids only
- Previous contents: Cleaning products, chemicals
- Price: Usually cheaper than food-grade
30-Gallon Non-Food-Grade Drums
- Size: 30 gallons
- Top: Fixed
- Safe for: Garden chemicals, non-potable water
- Previous contents: Lime-sulfur mixtures
- Price: Lower cost option
Where to Buy in Oregon
RePackify (Portland & Eugene)
- Online marketplace for used drums
- Food-grade and industrial options
- Delivery available
- Contact for pricing
What to Check Before Buying
Cleanliness and Safety
- Ask what was stored in the drum before
- Make sure it's been properly cleaned
- For food use, confirm it meets safety standards
Condition
- Look for cracks, dents, or holes
- Check that lids fit tightly
- Ensure handles are secure
Type of Opening
- Fixed top: Harder to clean but more secure
- Removable lid: Easy to fill and clean
Money-Saving Tips
Buy in Bulk
- Many sellers offer discounts for 8+ drums
- Split a large order with neighbors or friends
- Ask about "scratch and dent" pricing
Compare Pickup vs Delivery
- Pickup is usually cheaper
- Factor in gas and time costs
- Some suppliers offer free local delivery
Check Multiple Sources
- Prices can vary by $5-10 per drum
- Industrial areas often have better deals
- Farm supply stores sometimes sell used drums
Red Flags to Avoid
- Drums that smell strongly of chemicals
- Sellers who won't tell you previous contents
- Cracked or damaged containers
- Prices that seem too good to be true
Getting Started
Decide what you need: Food-grade for water/food, or non-food-grade for garden use
Choose your size: 30-gallon for small spaces, 55-gallon for most uses
Set your budget: Expect $10-25 per drum depending on condition
Contact suppliers: Call 3-4 places to compare prices and availability
Inspect before buying: Check condition and cleanliness
Next Steps
Start by calling RePackify locations in Portland or Eugene. They can guide you to the right drums for your needs and help with delivery if needed.
Remember: A quality used drum can last 10+ years with proper care, making it a smart investment for any project.