Cardboard barrels, also known as fiber drums, are heavy-duty cylindrical containers made from thick fiberboard (a durable form of cardboard). They provide a reliable packaging solution for bulk goods in many industries, from dry chemicals and powders to food ingredients and pharmaceuticals. These cardboard shipping barrels are valued in B2B markets for being both lightweight and sturdy, offering an efficient alternative to traditional steel or plastic drums.

Advantages of Fiber Drums

Fiber drums offer a sustainable, lightweight, and budget-friendly alternative to plastic and steel containers. Lower in cost and made from recyclable fiberboard, they offer a cost-effective option that helps minimize environmental impact. Additionally, fiber drums can be customized with a variety of liners, coatings, and fittings to meet specific storage and shipping requirements. These advantages make them a versatile and eco-conscious choice for a wide range of industries.

Photo of stacks of fiber drums on pallets

Available Sizes & Capacities

Fiber drums come in a range of sizes to suit various storage and transportation needs. Common capacities include:

55-Gallon: The industry standard, ideal for bulk storage and large-scale shipping.
30-Gallon: A compact yet versatile option for moderate-volume applications.
20-Gallon: Well-suited for specialty products and smaller industrial uses.
15-Gallon: Perfect for laboratory use and small-scale storage requirements.

Lid Options for Fiber Drums

Fiber drum lids are available in several materials, each designed to meet specific application needs:

Fiber Lids: Lightweight, recyclable, and eco-friendly—ideal for dry goods and non-hazardous materials.
Plastic Lids: Durable and moisture-resistant, making them well-suited for food products, chemicals, and semi-liquids.
Metal Lids: The most robust option, offering superior strength and protection for hazardous materials or heavy-duty use.

Photo of a lever lock fiber drum closure

Closure Mechanisms

To ensure secure storage and transport, fiber drums are equipped with various closure mechanisms tailored to different requirements. Common types include:

Lever Lock Rings: Designed for convenience, these metal or plastic rings use a lever to clamp the lid tightly in place, offering a strong and dependable seal for most applications.
Bolt Rings: Providing an added level of security, these metal rings are secured with a bolt and nut, making them ideal for hazardous or high-risk materials where containment is critical.

Used Drum Types

Used fiber drums come in various conditions to suit different reuse needs and budgets:

Reconditioned: Cleaned, inspected, and ready for reuse.
Used Dirty: Contain residue; full cleaning required.
Used Rinsed: Lightly rinsed; may need further sanitation.
Food-Grade Rinsed: Held food products and rinsed; suitable for non-critical reuse.
Food-Grade Dirty: Previously used for food, but not cleaned; sanitation required before reuse.

Photo of a person removing colored powder from a fiber drum