What Happens During Drum Reconditioning and Why It’s a Smart Choice

When your operation runs through a high volume of containers, buying new drums for every cycle might feel like the default. But for many businesses, that habit is costing more than it should, financially and environmentally. A drum reconditioning service offers a smarter, more sustainable path forward.

Reconditioned industrial drums deliver the same performance and safety as new ones, but at a fraction of the cost. More than that, they support your company’s environmental goals without cutting corners on quality. If you’ve never considered reconditioning as part of your supply chain strategy, here’s why it’s worth a closer look.

Not Every Drum Needs to Be New

It’s easy to assume that once a drum is empty, it’s either bound for recycling or the landfill. But in reality, many containers are perfectly capable of another life, if not several more. Reconditioning gives those drums a second chance, extending their use and eliminating the need for new manufacturing.

This isn’t just a “green” decision. It’s a business-smart one, too. A drum reconditioning service can reduce your container costs significantly over time while helping your company avoid the hidden expenses of waste disposal and regulatory headaches.

What a Drum Reconditioning Service Really Does

Let’s break down what actually happens when a drum is reconditioned. At Kelly Drums, the process starts with pickup. Our team collects used containers from your facility and transports them to one of our certified locations. There, every drum goes through a rigorous inspection to determine whether it’s suitable for reconditioning or should be recycled.

Step 1: Cleaning and Decontamination

Drums are washed using industrial-grade systems that remove chemical residue, oil, and debris. If the drum previously held hazardous material, it must be RCRA empty before processing. This step is crucial for preparing the container for safe reuse.

Step 2: Repairs and Restoration

If a drum is dented or has minor structural issues, our technicians restore its integrity. That may involve removing dents, reapplying protective linings, or replacing damaged components. The goal is to bring the drum back to reliable working condition without compromising safety.

Step 3: Leak Testing and Inspection

Every reconditioned drum is subjected to pressure or vacuum testing to ensure it’s leak-free. Drums that don’t meet safety thresholds are removed from the reconditioning stream and recycled instead.

Step 4: Final Approval and Return

Once the drums pass all testing, they’re certified and prepared for resale or return to the customer. Reconditioned industrial drums from Kelly Drums are ready to handle another full cycle of use, backed by documentation and quality assurance.

Why Reconditioned Industrial Drums Make Sense

There’s more than one reason businesses are choosing to incorporate reconditioned containers into their operations. Let’s start with cost. Buying new drums every time you need to move or store product adds up fast. Reconditioned industrial drums can be 30–50% less expensive than new ones, depending on volume and drum type.

But cost isn’t the only factor. Reconditioning significantly reduces environmental impact. Manufacturing a new steel drum requires energy, raw materials, and transportation, all of which generate emissions. In contrast, reconditioning uses up to 60% less energy and diverts perfectly usable materials from the landfill.

It’s also a strong move for companies focused on sustainability or ESG reporting. Whether you’re aiming to shrink your carbon footprint or improve your green metrics, reusing containers through a trusted drum reconditioning service supports those goals with real, trackable results.

When to Choose Reconditioning

So, how do you know if reconditioning is the right option? If your operation uses drums regularly and has a system in place for collection, you’re already in a good position. Many companies implement a closed-loop setup, where used drums are returned, reconditioned, and redistributed.

It’s also a great fit for businesses that require consistent quality and compliance, but want to avoid the premium cost of new containers. From chemical manufacturers and food processors to automotive and agricultural operations, reconditioned drums offer flexibility without sacrificing performance.

Why Partnering with Kelly Drums Matters

Not all reconditioning providers are created equal. Kelly Drums brings over 40 years of experience in drum collection, reconditioning, and recycling. Our facilities are equipped to handle high-volume reconditioning while maintaining strict environmental and quality standards. Every container is processed with care and precision because safety, compliance, and reliability are non-negotiables.

We also make it easy. With flexible pickup options, detailed inspection reports, and prompt turnaround times, our drum reconditioning service is designed to support your business, not slow it down.

Looking to cut costs and reduce waste without cutting corners? Contact Kelly Drums today to schedule a pickup or learn more about our reconditioning options. We’ll help you create a smarter container strategy, one that works for your bottom line and the planet.

FAQ

What types of drums can be reconditioned?

We recondition steel, poly, and fiber drums, provided they are structurally sound and RCRA empty. Each container is inspected to determine eligibility.

Are reconditioned industrial drums as safe as new ones?

Yes. All reconditioned drums undergo leak testing, repairs, and final inspection. Only drums that meet or exceed safety standards are approved.

How many times can a drum be reconditioned?

It depends on the drum’s condition and use. Many drums can go through multiple cycles before they’re retired and recycled.

Can Kelly Drums pick up my used containers?

Absolutely. We offer regional pickup across the Mid-Atlantic and can customize the service based on your needs and volume.

What documentation is provided with reconditioned drums?

Every drum that passes reconditioning comes with certification and quality assurance records for traceability and compliance.

Is reconditioning environmentally friendly?

Yes. Reconditioning reduces energy use, minimizes waste, and supports a circular approach to container management. It's a practical and eco-conscious solution.