Frequently Asked Questions

We offer a comprehensive range of industrial drums including steel drums (carbon and stainless steel), plastic/HDPE drums, and fiber drums. Sizes range from 5 to 85 gallons. We carry both new and reconditioned containers in open-head and tight-head configurations.

Open-head drums have a removable lid secured by a bolt ring or lever lock, allowing full access to the contents. They're ideal for solids, viscous liquids, and applications requiring frequent access. Tight-head drums have a fixed top with small bung openings (typically 2" and 3/4") for filling and dispensing liquids. They're better suited for liquid storage and transport.

A standard 55-gallon steel drum is approximately 33.5" tall with a 22.5" diameter and weighs about 45 lbs empty. These dimensions may vary slightly by manufacturer. The 55-gallon size is the industry standard and most cost-effective option for industrial applications.

304 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, offering good corrosion resistance for general food, beverage, and mild chemical applications. 316 stainless steel contains additional molybdenum (2%), providing superior resistance to chlorides and more aggressive chemicals. 316 is preferred for marine environments, pharmaceutical, and high-purity applications.

Yes, we can source custom sizes beyond our standard inventory. Custom drums may require minimum order quantities and lead times. Contact our sales team with your specific requirements for availability and pricing.

Standard HDPE plastic drums are available in blue (most common), white, black, and natural/translucent. Blue is the industry standard for chemicals, while white and natural are often used for food-grade applications. Custom colors may be available for large orders.

Minimum orders vary by product type and your location. For local customers, we can accommodate orders as small as a single pallet (4 drums for 55-gallon). For shipping, minimum quantities depend on freight economics - typically 20+ drums for LTL and full truckloads (80-100 drums) for the best pricing.

We typically respond to quote requests within 24 business hours, often same-day. For urgent needs, please call our team directly at our Green Bay facility. Include drum type, size, quantity, condition (new/reconditioned), and delivery location for fastest response.

Yes, we offer competitive tiered pricing based on quantity. The more you order, the better the per-drum price. Annual contracts with scheduled deliveries can provide additional savings. Contact us for volume pricing specific to your needs.

We accept company checks, ACH transfers, wire transfers, and major credit cards for established accounts. New customers may require prepayment or COD for initial orders. Net-30 terms are available for qualified businesses with approved credit.

We strive to offer competitive pricing. If you've received a lower quote from a competitor for the same product (type, size, condition, certification), let us know and we'll do our best to match or beat it.

Pricing typically includes the drums on pallets. Additional services like custom labeling, special packaging, expedited shipping, or liftgate delivery may incur extra charges. Freight costs are quoted separately based on your delivery location.

Reconditioned drums have been professionally processed to return them to like-new condition. This includes thorough cleaning (triple-rinsed), inspection for damage, repairs if needed (straightening, gasket replacement), pressure testing, and re-painting or re-coating. They meet the same UN specifications as new drums.

Yes, when properly processed. We offer FDA-compliant reconditioning for food-grade applications. These drums undergo specialized cleaning, are inspected for any previous contents, and receive food-safe interior coatings. Documentation of the reconditioning process is available.

Steel drums can typically be reconditioned 3-5 times before reaching end-of-life. The actual number depends on the drum's original quality, what materials it contained, storage conditions, and handling. Each drum is individually assessed - if it doesn't meet quality standards, it's recycled.

Drums that cannot be safely reconditioned are recycled. Steel is shredded and melted for reuse, while plastic is granulated for recycling. We maintain a high material recovery rate, ensuring minimal waste.

Every reconditioned drum includes documentation of its previous contents and cleaning process. Our team can help assess compatibility with your product. For hazardous materials, drums are tested to UN standards. When in doubt, new drums are recommended for critical applications.

Our drums meet UN/DOT performance standards for hazardous materials transport (where applicable). We offer FDA-compliant drums for food contact, EPA-compliant processing for environmental safety, and can provide test certificates and documentation upon request.

We deliver throughout all 48 contiguous United States. Our strongest coverage is in the Midwest, Great Lakes region, and Central states. We have strategic partnerships for nationwide delivery with competitive rates even to coastal regions.

We offer Full Truckload (FTL) for large orders (80-100+ drums), Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) for smaller quantities, dedicated fleet for regional customers, and will-call pickup from our Green Bay facility. Expedited shipping is available for urgent needs.

Delivery times vary by location and order size. In-stock items typically ship within 2-3 business days. Transit times range from 1-2 days for regional deliveries to 5-7 days for distant locations. Rush orders can often be accommodated with advance notice.

Standard freight delivery assumes you have a forklift or dock to receive palletized drums. If you don't have unloading equipment, liftgate service can be arranged for an additional fee. Please specify this when ordering to ensure proper equipment is dispatched.

We primarily serve the domestic U.S. market. For international shipments, we can coordinate with freight forwarders and help prepare export documentation. Additional fees and lead times apply for international orders.

Inspect all deliveries before signing. Note any visible damage on the delivery receipt. If damage is discovered, contact us immediately with photos. We work with carriers to resolve claims and can ship replacements. Hidden damage must be reported within 5 business days.

Yes! We purchase used steel and plastic drums in bulk quantities. We're interested in drums that have contained non-hazardous or common industrial chemicals. Contact us with details about your drums (type, quantity, size, previous contents, condition) for a quote.

We primarily purchase 55-gallon steel drums (open-head and tight-head) and plastic drums that previously contained non-hazardous materials. We also buy smaller quantities of other sizes. Drums must be intact, with functional closures, and residue content must be disclosed.

Drums that don't meet reconditioning standards are recycled. Steel drums are processed at metal recycling facilities where they're shredded and melted. Plastic drums are shredded and the material is recycled. We achieve over 95% material recovery across all drum types.

Yes, we offer convenient pickup services for drum purchases. For quantities over 50 drums, we typically arrange pickup at no charge. Smaller quantities may incur pickup fees depending on location. We can also coordinate regular scheduled pickups for ongoing generators.

Empty drums completely, replace closures (bungs/lids), and stage on pallets if possible. Provide accurate information about previous contents. Do not mix drum types on pallets. Ensure the pickup area is accessible by truck.

Pricing varies based on type, condition, quantity, and market conditions. Steel drums in good condition typically have higher value than plastic. Bulk quantities command better prices. Contact us with specifics for current market pricing.

UN/DOT certification indicates a drum meets United Nations and Department of Transportation standards for transporting hazardous materials. Certified drums are tested for drop impact, pressure containment, and stacking strength. The UN marking (e.g., UN 1A1/X1.4/250) indicates the drum type, packing group rating, and other specifications.

UN certification is required for transporting hazardous materials regulated by DOT. If you're shipping non-hazardous materials or using drums only for storage, UN certification may not be required. However, many industries prefer UN drums for their quality assurance and testing standards.

FDA compliance means the drum materials and coatings meet Food and Drug Administration requirements for contact with food products (21 CFR). This includes approved plastics (like HDPE), food-safe interior coatings for steel drums, and proper cleaning/handling procedures for reconditioned containers.

Yes, properly reconditioned drums maintain their UN certification. The reconditioning process is regulated and must follow specific procedures. Reconditioned drums are marked with an "R" added to their UN marking (e.g., UN 1A1R) indicating they've been professionally reconditioned and re-tested.

Yes, we can provide documentation including UN test certificates, certificates of conformance, material safety data sheets for coatings, and chain of custody documentation. Request specific certifications when ordering.

Our operations comply with EPA regulations for hazardous waste handling, air emissions, and water discharge. Our reconditioning process follows RCRA guidelines. We provide proper waste manifesting for drums we collect and process.

Yes, we offer stainless steel drums (304 and 316 grades) and FDA-compliant plastic drums suitable for pharmaceutical applications. We can provide drums with electropolished interiors, sanitary fittings, and complete documentation of materials and cleaning procedures.

The best drum depends on the specific chemical. Plastic drums excel with corrosive materials like acids and bases. Lined steel drums are suitable for solvents and many industrial chemicals. Stainless steel works for high-purity or reactive chemicals. We can help assess compatibility with your specific product.

Steel drums can be used outdoors but may rust if not properly coated or if coatings are damaged. Galvanized or painted drums with rust inhibitors offer better outdoor performance. Plastic drums with UV stabilizers are excellent for outdoor use. Consider drum covers for additional protection.

Yes, our UN-certified drums meet IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations when properly certified for the specific material being shipped. Air transport has additional requirements beyond standard DOT regulations. Contact us with your specific shipping needs for guidance.

We offer UN-certified steel drums rated for flammable liquids (Packing Group I, II, or III as needed). Static dissipative plastic drums are available for certain applications. Proper grounding and bonding procedures should always be followed when handling flammable materials.

Open-head drums are ideal for dry goods and powders. Fiber drums are specifically designed for this purpose and offer a lightweight, sustainable option. Steel and plastic open-head drums provide more durability. Consider moisture barriers or liners for humidity-sensitive products.

We primarily serve businesses, but we can accommodate individual purchases depending on quantity and type. Minimum order quantities and full freight charges apply. For small quantities, you may find retail distributors more convenient.

Yes, we offer scheduled delivery programs for customers with regular drum needs. This provides convenience, ensures availability, and can offer better pricing. Contact us to discuss your usage patterns and set up a delivery schedule.

We do our best to accommodate urgent needs. Same-day or next-day pickup is often possible for in-stock items at our facility. Expedited shipping can be arranged at additional cost. Call us directly for emergency situations.

Orders can be placed by phone, email, or through our contact form. Provide drum specifications (type, size, head style, condition), quantity, delivery address, and any special requirements. We'll confirm availability and provide a quote for your approval before processing.

Unused drums in original condition may be returned within 30 days, subject to a restocking fee. Custom orders and reconditioned drums have different return policies. Contact us before returning any products. Returns due to our error are handled at no charge.

Our headquarters and main facility is located at 3030 Holmgren Way, Green Bay, WI 54304. We serve customers nationwide from this location and through strategic partnerships. Will-call pickup is available during business hours.