55 Gallon Drums and Barrels for Sale - New & Used

The 55-gallon drum, also known as a 55 gal barrel, is one of the most widely used industrial containers across a range of industries: manufacturing, transportation, food production, chemical processing, just to name a few. Steel, plastic, and fiber versions each serve different purposes and are built to handle large-volume storage and shipping.

55-gallon steel drums are the most in-demand option for hazardous materials, oils, and chemicals. Plastic is lighter and corrosion-resistant. Fiber works well for dry goods. Container Exchanger carries new, used, and refurbished 55-gallon drums in any quantity, from a single unit to a full truckload.

Food-grade 55-gallon storage barrels are also available and meet strict health and safety standards to prevent contamination throughout storage and delivery.

Types of 55 Gallon Barrels for Sale 

There are three main types of 55 gallon containers available across multiple sizes and quantity options to fit various industry uses. Shop our full selection below or filter by material, condition, and size to narrow things down.

• Steel drums: The 55-gallon steel drum is the most in-demand type across industries that handle hazardous materials, chemicals, and oils. Steel is strong, recyclable, and built to hold up through multiple shipping cycles. We carry both new and used 55-gallon steel drums in open and closed head configurations.

• Plastic drums: 55 gallon plastic storage barrels handle acids, detergents, and certain food ingredients as well. They resist corrosion and chemical reactions and are lighter than metal drums and easier to handle.

• Fiber Drums: Fiber drums are a cost-effective option for low-moisture applications, available in several quantity tiers.

Each container type can come with removable lids and locking mechanisms for better convenience and security.

Advantages & Disadvantages of 55 Gallon Containers 

Advantages 

• Durability: 55-gallon steel drums and heavy-duty plastic options are built to withstand harsh conditions, rough handling, and chemical exposure without failing. 

• Multiple Use Case: Whether it's liquids, solids, hazardous or non-hazardous materials, there's a 55 gallon drum designed for any type of material. 

• Reusability: Almost all types of 55 gallon drums, especially steel, can be reconditioned and reused, which is both cost-effective & environmentally friendly. 

Disadvantages

• Weight: Steel drums are heavy, which can increase shipping costs or require more labor or equipment for handling. 

• Space Consumption: Empty drums require considerable space for storage, which could be a disadvantage for businesses with limited space. 

New or Reconditioned/Used Drums – Which Should You Choose? 

Choosing between new & used 55 gallon drums comes down to what you’re storing and how critical contamination control is.

For food, pharmaceutical, or chemical applications, new 55-gallon steel drums are the safer purchase. They arrive clean, inspected, and ready for immediate use with no questions about prior contents. For general industrial storage, a used or refurbished drum is a smart purchase that rarely sacrifices quality. Buying used cuts costs significantly, especially with larger quantity orders. Whatever quantity you need, from a small lot to a full truckload, we can accommodate.

How to Select the Right 55 Gallon Drum?

Material, storage and transit conditions, and regulatory compliance must be considered while choosing a 55-gallon drum. For storing oils or chemicals that need strong confinement, a 55 gallon metal drum is perfect. Plastic handles corrosive and water-based compounds and comes in a range of FDA-approved options for food and beverage use.

Drums are also available in multiple sizes beyond the standard 55-gallon. You’ll also find insulated options, UV protection for outdoor storage, lined interiors for reactive compounds, and food-grade product certification. If you’re unsure what fits your needs, contact our team and we’ll help you find the right match. 

Where To Buy 55 Gallon Drums

Many sellers and manufacturers sell 55 gallon barrels, but finding a trusted source that offers quality is crucial. Searching for a 55 gallon drum can find local vendors with fast delivery and low shipping prices.  

Why Choose Container Exchanger? 

Container Exchanger is a trusted source for new, used, and refurbished 55-gallon drums in steel or plastic. Shop our vibrant marketplace for used 55 gallon metal drums for sale and filter by quantity, condition, and material to zero in on exactly what you want.

Whether you're ready to purchase today or still comparing options, our team is here to help. Contact us for bulk quantity pricing or freight quotes. Every drum we list meets strict quality standards so you can move forward with confidence.