Fabrication shops, machine shops, foundries and recyclers all need a place to put scrap that a forklift can move. A used steel bin does that for a fraction of the cost of new, and a rigid steel tub will take years of abuse. This page covers the main scrap bin types, the sizes buyers ask for most, and what to check before you buy. Every size below comes from bins listed on Container Exchanger.

Common scrap bin types

Sizes & capacities

These are real sizes from our current used-bin listings. Dimensions are outside dimensions, length x width x height.

*Prices from the first page of our metal bin listings on 2026-10-06 and they change. Check the listing for today's price.

Weight capacity depends on the gauge of the steel and how the bin is built, and most listings don't print a rated load. Ask the seller for the rated capacity in pounds before you load the bin.

Choosing a scrap bin

• What goes in it. Metal chips and turnings are dense and wet, so choose a smaller, stronger bin and fill it only part way. Bulky off-cuts need a larger opening.
• Forklift entry. Check whether the bin has 2-way or 4-way fork pockets and how far apart they are. Match them to your truck.
• Stackability. Stackable bins save floor space when empty or when full. Ask the seller whether full bins can be stacked.
• Coolant and drainage. If the scrap is wet with coolant, look for a drain plug or a mesh floor so liquid doesn't sit in the bin.
• Drop door or tilt dump. A drop-door bin empties without tipping. A tilt hopper empties by hand release. Pick the one that fits how you dump.

Self-dumping hoppers

A self-dumping hopper has a latch and pivot. You fork the hopper over the dump point, release the latch and the hopper tips and empties, then rights itself when you lower it. One person can do it from the truck. Sizes are quoted in cubic yards. A new 3/4 cubic yard hopper (60 x 38 x 35 in) is currently listed made to order. See material hoppers and silos for sale for what's in stock.

New vs used pricing

Used steel bins in our listings run from about $185 to $385 for the sizes above. New corrugated steel bins are built to order. Look at the price on the listing and compare it with a quote for a new bin of the same footprint. We don't publish a standard markup because new pricing depends on the build.

Sell your surplus scrap bins

Have extra steel bins or hoppers? List them on Container Exchanger. See metal bins wanted to see what buyers are asking for.

FAQ

How much weight can a steel scrap bin hold?

It depends on the gauge, the footprint and the construction. Most listings don't state a rated load, so ask the seller for the rated capacity in pounds. Never load past it.

What gauge steel are scrap bins made from?

Gauge varies by bin. Heavier gauges cost more and handle heavy or sharp scrap better. Ask the seller for the gauge before you buy.

Can you stack scrap bins?

Some can. Stackable bins have corner posts or a lip that locks into the bin below. Ask whether stacking applies to full bins or only empty ones.

What is a self-dumping hopper?

A self-dumping hopper is a steel bin on a pivot with a latch. When you release the latch the hopper tips and the load slides out. It lets one person empty scrap without leaving the forklift.

Where can I buy used scrap bins?

Browse used steel scrap bins in stock or request a quote if you need a size you don't see.

Browse used steel scrap bins in stock →

Related: used metal storage containers, steel tubs and rigid metal bins, metal bins with drop doors.