When it comes to storing and transporting solid materials, businesses often turn to the 55 Gallon Drum as the container of choice. Whether it’s a 55 Gallon Drum Container filled with powders, grains, or industrial waste, these gallon barrels have served industries for decades. But not all drums are created equal, and the type you choose—steel, plastic, or an innovative alternative—can make a big difference in efficiency, compliance, and cost. So, what type of drum is best for storing solid materials?
The traditional fifty five gallon drum
The fifty five gallon drum has been an industry staple since the mid-20th century. Its standard size makes it recognizable across the globe and easy to integrate into existing storage and transportation systems. Whether referred to as a 55 Gallon Barrel or 55 Gallon Barrel Metal container, the basic design is consistent: durable walls, standardized dimensions, and the capacity to hold approximately 208 liters.
For solid materials, these drums provide a rigid and secure solution. A 55 Gallon Steel Drum is especially valued in heavy industries where strength and durability are non-negotiable. On the other hand, a Plastic 55 Gallon Drum is often chosen for lighter solids or materials that don’t require the added strength of metal.
The limitations of steel and plastic drums
While both steel and plastic drums can store solid materials effectively, they come with challenges. A 55 Gallon Steel Drum is heavy even when empty, making handling and transport more difficult. It may also be susceptible to rust if exposed to moisture. Plastic drums, while lighter, are still rigid and occupy the same space regardless of whether they’re full or empty. For businesses buying drums in bulk, this leads to inefficient storage and higher costs.
Companies looking at a 55 gallon drum for sale often overlook these limitations, focusing on capacity rather than long-term practicality. Yet, as supply chains grow more complex and sustainability becomes a priority, many organizations are reconsidering how to store and move solids more efficiently.
Key factors when selecting a drum for solid storage
When deciding which 55 Gallon Drum Container is best for your operation, consider the following factors:
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Weight of the contents: Heavier solids may require the strength of a 55 Gallon Barrel Metal drum.
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Type of material: Food products or sensitive materials may require a Plastic 55 Gallon Drum to prevent contamination.
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Storage space: Traditional gallon barrels consume the same volume whether empty or full, making them less efficient in warehouses.
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Transportation needs: Shipping costs rise when transporting heavy or bulky drums.
These considerations are essential in determining whether to buy 55 gallon drums in their traditional form or explore modern alternatives.
Modern alternatives to traditional gallon barrels
In recent years, innovations in drum design have introduced collapsible and lightweight options that address the limitations of rigid containers. One standout solution is Gorilla Drum™, a collapsible polypropylene drum that holds the same 55-gallon capacity but weighs only about 7.5 pounds when unfilled.
This design makes Gorilla Drum ideal for solid material storage. Not only does it provide the same volume as a 55 Gallon Steel Drum or Plastic 55 Gallon Drum, but it also collapses flat when not in use, allowing companies to reclaim warehouse space and lower transport costs. Up to 80 units can fit on a pallet and over 4,000 in a single truckload, something traditional gallon barrels cannot match.
To learn more about the practical benefits of these designs, visit How To Store And Transport Materials Without Heavy Drums.
Compliance and safety advantages
Solid materials often fall under strict handling and safety regulations. Gorilla Drum is UN/DOT certified and permitted for hazardous classes, making it suitable for everything from laboratory waste to industrial solids. Unlike rigid 55 Gallon Barrel options, it has been stack-tested and designed with features like lift loops, dolly straps, reinforced lids, and labeling windows to ensure safe use in the field.
By maintaining compliance without the burden of heavy drums, businesses can protect workers, reduce liability, and improve overall efficiency.
Cost and environmental considerations
The cost of a 55 Gallon Barrel isn’t limited to its purchase price. Factors like transportation, storage, and disposal all add up. Steel drums consume significant resources to manufacture, while plastic drums, although recyclable, still occupy valuable space in warehouses and shipping containers.
Collapsible polypropylene drums, like Gorilla Drum, reduce overall costs by maximizing shipping efficiency and lowering the environmental impact. Lighter weight means less fuel is consumed during transportation, and recyclability supports sustainability goals. For businesses looking to move beyond the inefficiencies of traditional gallon barrels, this is a clear advantage.
Guidance for choosing the right alternative
If you’re evaluating whether to buy 55 gallon drums or explore newer designs, it’s important to weigh both short- and long-term needs. While steel and plastic drums have their place, collapsible alternatives offer unmatched efficiency for solid material storage and transport.
For a detailed breakdown of how to choose the right solution, explore the Complete Guide To Choosing The Right 55 Gallon Drum Alternative. This guide walks through capacity, compliance, and cost considerations to help businesses make the most informed decision.
Final thoughts
So, what type of drum is best for storing solid materials? Traditional 55 Gallon Steel Drums and Plastic 55 Gallon Drums can serve well in many cases, but they also come with limitations in weight, space, and efficiency. Modern solutions like Gorilla Drum offer the same fifty five gallon drum capacity in a collapsible, lightweight form that saves space, reduces costs, and supports sustainability.
When it comes to storing and transporting solids, Gorilla Drum stands out as the smarter choice for today’s businesses. To learn more about how Gorilla Drum can fit your operational needs, call +1 800-758-8079 today.