Plastic Drums for Sale Near Me

Plastic drums are durable containers made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), used to store and transport liquids, powders, and semi-solids. They resist corrosion and chemicals, are lighter than metal drums, and come in sizes typically ranging from 15 to 110 gallons. Reusable and recyclable, they are also a more sustainable option in industrial packaging solutions.

Benefits and Limitations of Plastic Drums

Plastic drums are widely used in industrial and commercial settings due to their versatility and resilience, but like any packaging solution, they come with both advantages and limitations.

Pros:

Durability: Resistant to corrosion, rust, and many chemicals.
Lightweight: Easier to handle and transport than metal drums.
Reusable and recyclable: Suitable for multiple uses and environmentally friendly when recycled properly.
Weather-resistant: Can withstand outdoor storage without degrading quickly.

Cons:

Lower temperature resistance: Not ideal for very high-heat applications.
Less impact-resistant than steel: Can crack or puncture under extreme force.
Limited compatibility with certain solvents: Some chemicals may degrade plastic over time.
Not biodegradable: Though recyclable, improper disposal can contribute to plastic pollution.

Photo of plastic drums stacked on their sides

Photo of a factory worker filling a plastic drum

Used Drum Types

Used plastic drums are available in a range of conditions to meet different application needs:

Reconditioned: Thoroughly cleaned, inspected, and refurbished to meet high reuse standards—ideal for industrial and commercial repurposing.
Used Dirty: Previously used with residual contents remaining; requires complete cleaning before safe reuse.
Used Rinsed: Lightly rinsed but not sanitized; suitable for non-sensitive or low-risk applications.
Used Food-Grade Rinsed: Formerly used for food products and rinsed, but may still require further sanitation depending on end use.
Used Food-Grade Dirty: Previously held food materials but has not been cleaned.

Choosing Between Tight-Head and Open-Head Lids

Plastic drums come in two primary types: open-head and tight-head. Open-head drums have a removable lid secured with a bolt or lever lock ring, making them ideal for solids, semi-solids, and liquids requiring frequent access. Tight-head drums, also known as closed-head drums, feature a sealed top with small bung openings for controlled filling and dispensing, making them best suited for liquid storage and transport.

Open-Head

Tight-Head

Standard Plastic Drum Sizes and Applications

Plastic drums come in a range of standard sizes to suit various storage and transport needs, such as:

15-gallon: Compact and easy to handle; ideal for small-volume chemicals or specialty materials.
30-gallon: A mid-size option offering a balance between capacity and maneuverability.
55-gallon: The most common size, widely used for bulk liquids, powders, and waste; standard for many regulatory and shipping systems.
65-gallon & 85-gallon overpacks: Typically used for spill containment or as secondary packaging around smaller drums for hazardous materials.

Common Fittings for Access and Dispensing

Plastic drum fittings are components such as bungs, spouts, and valves that can be used for venting, dispensing, or sealing the drum’s contents. They are typically made from durable materials like polyethylene or polypropylene and are designed to fit standard drum openings (usually 2-inch and 3/4-inch).