Save Money on Used Plastic Drums in Vermont: Your Complete Buying Guide
What You'll Get: Learn exactly where to buy quality used plastic drums in Vermont, how much to pay, and what to look for. You'll save 50-70% compared to buying new drums while getting reliable storage solutions.
Why Buy Used Plastic Drums?
You'll save serious money. New 55-gallon drums cost $150-$200. Used ones cost $35-$100. That's half the price or less.
Plus, you're helping the environment by giving these drums a second life instead of adding to landfills.
Where to Buy Used Plastic Drums in Vermont
Primary Suppliers
RePackify (Burlington)
- Specializes in used 55-gallon HDPE drums
- Both open-head and tight-head available
- Price range: $35-$100 per drum
- Clean, reconditioned drums ready to use
Online Suppliers (Statewide Delivery)
- Search for "used plastic drums Vermont"
- Compare prices and shipping costs
- Request quotes for bulk orders
Money-Saving Tips
- Buy 10 or more drums for 10-20% bulk discounts
- Shop in late fall or winter when demand is lower
- Ask about taking drums "as-is" for lower prices
- Build relationships with suppliers for better future deals
What Types of Drums Are Available?
Most Common Size
55-gallon drums - These are everywhere and perfect for most needs like:
- Rainwater collection
- Compost storage
- Emergency water storage
- Workshop organization
Other Sizes
- 30-gallon drums (good for smaller spaces)
- 60-gallon drums (when you need extra capacity)
Two Main Styles
Open-head drums (removable lid)
- Best for: Storing solids, powders, or anything you need to scoop out
- Example: Storing chicken feed, garden soil, or craft supplies
Tight-head drums (fixed top with small opening)
- Best for: Liquids you'll pump out
- Example: Rainwater collection with spigot attachment
How to Choose the Right Drum
Step 1: Know Your Purpose
- Food or water storage: Must be food-grade certified
- Chemicals: Need UN-rated drums with proper documentation
- General storage: Standard reconditioned drums work fine
Step 2: Check the Drum's History
Ask the seller:
- What was stored in it before?
- How was it cleaned?
- Any cracks or damage?
Step 3: Inspect Before Buying
Look for:
- Cracks in the plastic (deal-breaker)
- Deep scratches or gouges
- Warped or damaged lids
- Broken handles
Test the seal by filling with a little water and checking for leaks.
Smart Buying Process
Before You Shop
Set your budget - Include drum cost, tax, and transport
Measure your space - Make sure drums will fit
Plan transport - Each drum weighs about 50 pounds empty
When You Shop
Contact 2-3 suppliers - Compare prices and availability
Ask about delivery - Some suppliers offer truck delivery
Negotiate - Especially for multiple drums
Inspect in person if possible
Example Shopping Trip
Let's say you need 5 drums for rainwater collection:
- Call RePackify: $45 each, pickup only
- Check local recycling center: $30 each, as-is condition
- Compare online supplier: $40 each plus $50 shipping
In this case, RePackify offers the best value at $225 total for clean, ready-to-use drums.
What to Expect When Buying
Reconditioned Drums Include
- Cleaned and pressure-rinsed inside
- New or tested gaskets
- Basic quality inspection
Delivery Options
- Pickup: Bring a truck or trailer
- Freight delivery: Added cost but convenient
- Forklift loading: Available at most suppliers
Red Flags to Avoid
- Drums with strong chemical odors
- Visible cracks or deep damage
- Sellers who won't tell you previous contents
- Prices that seem too good to be true
- No return policy or guarantee
Making Your Purchase Last
Proper Storage
- Keep drums out of direct sunlight
- Store on level ground
- Use drum cradles for horizontal storage
Maintenance
- Clean periodically based on use
- Check seals and gaskets annually
- Replace worn parts as needed
Seasonal Buying Strategy
Best times to buy:
- Late fall (October-November)
- Winter months (December-February)
- After harvest season
Avoid buying:
- Spring planting season
- Summer (high demand for water storage)
Final Tips for Success
Start with one drum to test your supplier
Build relationships with local suppliers
Join online groups for Vermont drum buyers
Keep receipts for warranty claims
Consider the total cost including transport
Remember: The goal is finding reliable drums at fair prices. Don't rush into the first deal you see. Take time to compare options and inspect what you're buying.
With used plastic drums, you're getting practical storage solutions while saving money and helping the environment. That's a win all around.