Steel Drums
Industry-standard steel drums for chemicals, petroleum products, hazardous materials, and food-grade applications. Available in open-head and tight-head configurations with UN/DOT certification.
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About Steel Drums
Steel drums have been the backbone of industrial material handling for over a century, and PackMeUS is proud to be a leading supplier of both new and reconditioned steel drums across the United States. Our comprehensive inventory includes drums for every application, from hazardous chemical transport to food-grade ingredient storage. Our steel drums are manufactured from high-quality carbon steel and are available in a variety of gauges to meet different strength and weight requirements. Standard gauges range from 18-gauge (0.048" thick) for lighter applications to 16-gauge (0.060" thick) for heavy-duty use and hazardous materials transport. We offer both open-head and tight-head (closed-head) configurations to suit your specific application needs. Open-head drums feature a completely removable lid secured with a bolt ring or lever-lock ring clamp, making them ideal for viscous materials, solids, or products that require easy access for filling and emptying. Tight-head drums have permanently attached tops with two threaded bungs (typically 2" and 3/4" NPT) for liquid applications where a sealed container is required. Our reconditioned drums undergo a rigorous 12-step process including pressure testing, interior cleaning, exterior refinishing, and gasket replacement. Each reconditioned drum is inspected to ensure it meets or exceeds UN certification requirements for the transportation of dangerous goods. This process allows us to offer drums that perform like new at a fraction of the cost. Whether you need a single drum or a truckload, PackMeUS has the inventory and logistics capability to meet your needs with fast delivery to any location in the continental United States.
Key Features
- Available in open-head and tight-head (closed-head) configurations
- Multiple sizes from 5 to 55 gallons (standard) with custom sizes available
- Various interior linings: unlined, epoxy phenolic, polyethylene, rust inhibitor
- Exterior finishes: standard paint, powder coat, galvanized
- UN/DOT certified for hazardous materials transport (UN1A1, UN1A2)
- New, used, and professionally reconditioned options available
- Steel gauges from 18-gauge to 16-gauge for varying strength needs
- Bolt ring, lever-lock, and Quik-Lever closure systems available
- Compatible with all standard drum handling equipment (lifters, dollies, pumps)
- Gasket options: Nitrile, EPDM, Viton, PTFE for chemical compatibility
- Custom printing and labeling services available
- Full traceability with lot numbers and certificates of conformance
Common Applications
- Chemical storage and transportation (acids, bases, solvents)
- Petroleum and lubricant products (motor oil, hydraulic fluid, grease)
- Hazardous waste collection and disposal
- Food-grade ingredients (oils, syrups, flavorings, concentrates)
- Pharmaceutical raw materials and intermediates
- Industrial solvents and degreasers
- Paints, coatings, inks, and pigments
- Agricultural chemicals (pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers)
- Water treatment chemicals (chlorine compounds, pH adjusters)
- Adhesives, resins, and epoxies
- Cleaning products and surfactants
- Mining and construction materials
- Automotive fluids and additives
- Aerospace lubricants and hydraulic fluids
Available Sizes
Choose from our range of standard sizes or inquire about custom options.
Benefits of Steel Drums
Superior Durability & Protection
Steel construction provides excellent protection against physical damage, drops, and impacts, making them ideal for demanding industrial environments, warehouses, and transportation. Steel drums can withstand stacking loads and rough handling that would damage other container types.
Outstanding Chemical Resistance
With proper lining options (epoxy phenolic, polyethylene, or specialized coatings), steel drums can safely contain a wide range of chemicals including acids, bases, solvents, and corrosive materials. Our technical team can recommend the optimal lining for your specific product.
Significant Cost Savings
Reconditioned steel drums offer 30-50% cost savings compared to new drums while meeting the same quality and safety standards. Our high-volume processing keeps prices competitive, and volume discounts are available for large orders.
Environmentally Responsible
Steel is 100% recyclable without loss of quality, and our reconditioning programs extend the useful life of each drum by 5-7 cycles, dramatically reducing environmental impact compared to single-use containers. Choose steel drums to support your sustainability goals.
Full Regulatory Compliance
Our UN/DOT certified drums meet all federal, state, and international regulations for the transportation of dangerous goods. We provide certificates of compliance and can assist with regulatory questions. All certifications are current and maintained.
Versatile Application Range
From FDA-compliant food-grade storage to UN-rated hazardous materials transport, steel drums can be configured for virtually any industrial application. Multiple closure types, linings, and accessories ensure the perfect fit for your needs.
Long-Term Value
Steel drums maintain their integrity over many years of use. When properly maintained, a single drum can be reconditioned multiple times, providing decades of reliable service. This longevity makes steel drums the most economical choice over time.
Wide Compatibility
Steel drums work seamlessly with all standard drum handling equipment including drum lifters, dollies, tilters, pumps, and dispensing systems. Standard dimensions ensure compatibility with existing warehouse systems and pallet configurations.
Ready to Order Steel Drums?
Contact us today for pricing, availability, and to discuss your specific requirements.