The 55 Gallon Drum has long been the container of choice for storing and transporting liquids, solids, and hazardous materials. Known globally for its standard size and reliability, the fifty five gallon drum can be found in industries ranging from manufacturing to healthcare. But due to their size, weight, and regulatory requirements, these drums must be handled with care. Mishandling a 55 Gallon Drum Container can lead to workplace injuries, damaged materials, or compliance violations. Knowing how to properly move, store, and manage gallon barrels is essential for safe and efficient operations.
Understanding the basics of a 55 Gallon Drum
A 55 Gallon Drum typically holds about 208 liters and can weigh anywhere from 400 to 600 pounds when filled, depending on its contents. Variations include the 55 Gallon Steel Drum, prized for durability in heavy industries, and the Plastic 55 Gallon Drum, often used for food products, pharmaceuticals, and materials requiring corrosion resistance. A 55 Gallon Barrel Metal container may withstand harsh conditions, while plastic options are lighter but still rigid.
Regardless of type, a 55 Gallon Barrel requires specialized handling due to its weight and bulk. Companies that buy 55 gallon drums in bulk or consider a 55 gallon drum for sale must account for the equipment and training necessary to move them safely.
Safe handling practices
When handling gallon barrels, safety is the top priority. Best practices include:
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Use the right equipment: Forklifts, pallet jacks, and drum dollies are essential for moving a 55 Gallon Drum Container safely. Attempting to roll or lift these containers manually increases the risk of accidents.
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Secure the load: Whether stored in a warehouse or transported by truck, drums should always be secured to prevent tipping, rolling, or sliding.
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Label appropriately: A clearly marked fifty five gallon drum ensures handlers know what’s inside and can follow appropriate safety protocols.
By following these steps, businesses protect their workers and minimize the risks associated with drum handling.
The challenges of rigid drums
While the 55 Gallon Steel Drum and Plastic 55 Gallon Drum remain industry staples, they present logistical challenges. Their rigid design means they take up the same amount of space whether empty or full. A warehouse filled with gallon barrels can quickly run out of capacity, and transporting empty drums wastes valuable freight space. The weight of a 55 Gallon Barrel Metal container also increases shipping costs, and even the plastic versions are cumbersome for workers to manage.
For companies regularly moving and storing these drums, inefficiency becomes a hidden cost. That’s why many organizations are exploring alternatives to traditional gallon barrels.
Alternatives for easier handling
One of the most significant innovations in recent years is the collapsible polypropylene drum. Gorilla Drum™, for example, offers the same 55-gallon capacity as a standard barrel but weighs just 7.5 pounds when unfilled. Its collapsible design allows it to be stored flat, saving warehouse space and improving transport efficiency.
For businesses looking for smarter ways to manage solids and liquids, Gorilla Drum is designed with features like lift loops, dolly straps, reinforced zippers, and labeling windows to simplify handling. This makes it easier for workers to move, store, and transport materials without the strain of heavy, rigid containers.
For a detailed look at this innovation, see How To Store And Transport Materials Without Heavy Drums.
Compliance and safety considerations
Handling a 55 Gallon Drum isn’t only about physical logistics—it’s also about compliance. Regulations require drums used for hazardous materials to meet UN and DOT standards. Gorilla Drum meets these certifications while providing the same storage capacity as a standard steel or plastic option. This ensures that businesses can remain compliant while reducing workplace risks.
Because Gorilla Drum is stack-tested and permitted for a wide range of hazardous materials, it provides the same reliability as a 55 Gallon Steel Drum but without the burden of weight and space inefficiency.
Logistics and cost advantages
For companies that regularly buy 55 gallon drums, the cost goes beyond the purchase price. Storing and transporting gallon barrels adds up quickly. Traditional drums consume the same amount of space whether they’re in use or not. Collapsible alternatives, however, allow up to 80 units per pallet and over 4,000 per truckload. This efficiency lowers costs and reduces the environmental impact of transporting empty drums.
When viewed from a logistics perspective, Gorilla Drum is not just a container but a cost-saving solution that addresses inefficiencies tied to rigid gallon barrels.
Choosing the right solution
If your business is considering whether to continue with a 55 Gallon Barrel or adopt a new design, it’s important to evaluate all aspects: handling, compliance, cost, and storage efficiency. While steel and plastic drums remain common, collapsible alternatives are proving to be more practical in modern supply chains.
For guidance on making the best choice, visit the Complete Guide To Choosing The Right 55 Gallon Drum Alternative. This resource offers a comprehensive overview of how to select the container that aligns with your operational needs.
Final thoughts
Knowing how to handle 55 Gallon Drums is critical for workplace safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. Traditional steel and plastic drums remain useful, but their weight and bulk create challenges for modern businesses. Collapsible alternatives like Gorilla Drum provide the same fifty five gallon drum capacity while offering easier handling, space savings, and lower transportation costs.
For companies looking to modernize their approach to storing and transporting materials, Gorilla Drum is the smarter choice. To learn more about how Gorilla Drum can fit into your business operations, call ++1 800-758-8079 today.