When selecting a plastic 55 gallon drum, durability, regulatory compliance, and compatibility with your materials matter most. The following five options cover open-head and tight-head designs, lid types, and rugged HDPE construction to meet common storage, transport, and emergency preparedness needs. Each drum is designed to withstand weather, chemicals, and routine handling, helping you optimize space and safety in both commercial and home settings.
| Product | Brand | Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid (Yellow) | Eagle | Open Head Lab Pack Drum | HDPE, lever-lock lid options, weather/chemical resistant |
| Transport Drum, Open Head, 55 gal (Blue) | Skolnik | Open Head | DOT/UN rated, 2″ leverlock, sturdy HDPE |
| Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid (Blue) | Eagle | Open Head Lab Pack Drum | HDPE construction, weather/chemical resistant |
| 55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum (BPA Free) | Volu Sol | Tight Head | 2″ NPT and buttress fittings, leak prevention |
| Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel | Augason Farms | Water Storage Barrel | Food-grade, BPA-free, emergency water storage |
Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid – Yellow
The Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid in yellow is designed for regulatory compliance, offering a durable blow-molded HDPE barrel that withstands weather and chemicals. It is suitable for storing small undamaged bottles, cans, carboys, and five-gallon pails of non-leaking hazardous materials when used with an appropriate lid. Note that it is not intended for free liquids. The lid selection supports material-specific regulatory needs, making it a versatile option for compliant storage and transport tasks.
Transport Drum Open Head 55 gal (Blue) by Skolnik
This open-head transport drum from Skolnik is a practical blue 55-gallon HDPE drum designed for regulated storage and transport. It features a 23-1/2″ inside diameter, an overall height of 34-1/4″, and a 286 lb load capacity. It supports UN rating for hazardous materials, with a leverlock ring closure and a standard packing group II/III configuration. The design prioritizes safe dispensing and leak prevention in industrial and distribution settings.
Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid – Blue
Another Eagle option in blue, this open head lab pack drum emphasizes regulatory compliance and durability. Made from blow-molded HDPE, it is designed to resist chemical exposure and weather, while remaining lightweight for handling. It is well-suited for non-leaking hazardous materials when used with the correct lid and is compatible with various small containers and pails.
55 Gallon Blue Tight Head Plastic Drum (Volu Sol)
This blue tight-head drum from Volu Sol adds controlled dispensing with a 2″ NPT and 2″ buttress fitting. The tight-head design minimizes leakage and contamination, making it ideal for applications requiring a sealed top. Built from high molecular weight polyethylene, it offers superior impact resistance and durability for long-term on-site storage and handling of various liquids.
Eagle 55 Gallon Plastic Drum with Lid – Yellow (Screw-On Lid)
This Eagle model with a screw-on lid is designed for regulatory compliance and robust storage. Like other Eagle drums, it uses blow-molded HDPE to provide a durable and weather-resistant container suitable for storing non-leaking hazardous materials with the proper lid configuration. It emphasizes versatility across different lid types to meet handling requirements.
Augason Farms 55-Gallon Water Storage Barrel
Augason Farms offers a BPA-free, food-grade 55-gallon water storage barrel designed for emergency preparedness. This water storage solution provides a sizable reserve for households or small businesses during outages. The durable polyethylene construction supports long-term storage, while the BPA-free material aims to preserve water quality for daily use and emergencies alike.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Head Type: Open-head drums (ease of access) vs. tight-head drums (leak prevention and controlled dispensing). Choose based on whether you need frequent access or sealed containment.
- Lid Compatibility: Regulatory compliance often hinges on selecting the correct lid (leak prevention, chemical compatibility, venting options). Verify lid options before purchase.
- Material and Durability: HDPE and high molecular weight polyethylene offer chemical and impact resistance. Consider chemical compatibility with stored contents and exposure to weather.
- Regulatory Compliance: For hazardous materials, ensure UN/DOT ratings and packaging group compatibility. Proper labeling and lid design are essential for safe transport.
- Capacity and Fit: 55 gallons remain standard, but consider space, handling equipment, and drainage requirements. Some drums are better suited for on-site storage or distribution setups.
- Food-Grade Options: If storing drinking water or food ingredients, select BPA-free, food-grade barrels to minimize contamination risk.
- Shelf Life and Maintenance: Inspect drums for cracks, UV exposure, and seal integrity. Periodic maintenance helps extend container life and ensure safety.
- Handling and Safety: Use proper lifting equipment and follow Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) guidelines when storing or dispensing contents.