Buy Used Plastic Drums in Washington

Where to Find Cheap Used Plastic Drums in Washington

What you'll get from this guide: Learn where to buy quality used plastic drums for 30-70% less than new ones. Find reliable suppliers, understand pricing, and avoid common buying mistakes.

Why Buy Used Plastic Drums?

You can save hundreds of dollars compared to new drums. A new 55-gallon drum costs $60-80. Used ones cost $15-25. That's real money back in your pocket.

Used drums work great for:

• Storing water for emergencies
• Collecting rainwater
• Mixing compost
• Storing grain or animal feed
• Small business storage needs

RePackify

• Location: Tacoma and Spokane areas
• What they sell: 50-55 gallon plastic drums, food-grade and industrial
• Price: Competitive prices
• Delivery: Ships nationwide
• Why choose them: Online marketplace with location filters

What to Know Before You Buy

Food-Grade vs Industrial Grade

Food-Grade Drums:

• Safe for drinking water
• Safe for food storage
• Previously held safe materials like fruit juice or oils
• Cleaned to FDA standards
• Cost more but worth it for food/water use

Industrial-Grade Drums:

• May have held chemicals
• Need thorough cleaning before use
• Check what was stored in them before
• Cheaper but requires more work
• Good for non-food storage

Drum Types

Closed-Head Drums:

• Two small openings (bungs) on top
• Best for liquids
• Harder to clean inside

Open-Head Drums:

• Removable lid
• Easy to clean
• Good for solids or things you need to scoop out

How Much You'll Pay

Typical Prices:

• 55-gallon food-grade: $15-25 each
• 55-gallon industrial: $10-20 each
• Smaller drums (30-gallon): $8-15 each

Extra Costs:

• Pallets: $10 per pallet (holds 4 drums)
• Delivery: You usually pay for freight
• Minimum orders: Some sellers require 20+ drums

Step-by-Step Buying Process

Step 1: Decide What You Need

• How many drums?
• What size? (55-gallon is most common)
• Food-grade or industrial?
• Open-top or closed-top?

Step 2: Call Suppliers

• Ask about current stock
• Get exact pricing
• Check minimum orders
• Ask about pickup options

Step 3: Inspect Before Buying

• Look for cracks or damage
• Check what was stored before
• Smell inside - strong chemical odors are bad
• Ask for cleaning certificates

Step 4: Arrange Pickup

• Most suppliers don't deliver
• You need a truck or freight company
• Schedule pickup time
• Bring tie-down straps

Money-Saving Tips

Buy in Bulk:

• Order 48+ drums for better prices
• Split orders with neighbors or other businesses
• Volume discounts can save $5+ per drum

Time Your Purchase:

• Call multiple suppliers for best prices
• Some have seasonal sales
• End of fiscal year often has deals

Consider Condition:

• Light scratches don't affect function
• Avoid dented or cracked drums
• Ask about return policy

Important Safety Notes

Always Check Previous Contents:

• Get a list of what was stored
• Avoid drums that held toxic chemicals
• When in doubt, don't buy

Cleaning Required:

• Even "clean" drums need washing
• Use hot water and soap
• Rinse thoroughly
• Let dry completely before use

Legal Requirements:

• Some areas require permits for large water storage
• Check local fire codes
• Business use may need special permits

Red Flags to Avoid

Don't Buy If:

• Seller won't tell you what was stored inside
• Drums smell strongly of chemicals
• Visible cracks or deep dents
• No cleaning documentation
• Price seems too good to be true

Getting Started

For First-Time Buyers:

Start with 1-2 drums to test the supplier

Choose food-grade for safety

Pick open-head drums for easy cleaning

Buy locally to avoid shipping costs

Questions to Ask Suppliers:

• What was stored in these drums?
• Do you have cleaning certificates?
• What's your minimum order?
• Can I inspect drums before buying?
• Do you help with loading?

Why This Matters

Used plastic drums give you affordable storage for water, food, or business needs. With the right supplier and careful inspection, you get quality containers at a fraction of new prices. Just remember to prioritize safety over savings - especially for food or water storage.

The key is finding reliable suppliers who clean their drums properly and tell you exactly what was stored inside. Start small, build relationships with good suppliers, and always inspect before you buy.