Packaging guide
Find the right 55-gallon drum for your product in three quick questions. Compare steel, plastic, fiber and stainless options by material, head type and UN rating, with guidance from our packaging specialists.
Trusted Across Chemical • Food & Beverage • Pharma • Paint & Coatings
Know what you need? Filter and compare the full drum range side by side.
Best for solvents, fuels and UN-rated hazardous liquids and solids
Best for corrosive, high-purity, food and pharma products needing a reusable drum
Best for non-hazardous liquids and industrial chemicals
Best for food, beverage and pharma products needing fill-level visibility
Best for light-sensitive chemicals and lubricants stored outdoors
Best for dry powders, granules and solid bulk products
A 55-gallon (208-litre) drum is the standard industrial bulk container for shipping and storing liquids and solids. Novvia stocks steel, stainless steel, HDPE plastic and fiber drums in both tight-head (sealed, for liquids) and open-head (removable lid, for solids) styles.
A tight-head (closed-head) drum has a fixed top with 2-inch bungs for dispensing liquids. An open-head drum has a fully removable cover secured by a bolt or lever ring, so you can fill, scoop and clean out solids or viscous products.
Common materials are carbon (cold-rolled) steel, stainless steel, HDPE plastic and fiber. Steel is strongest, stainless is reusable and corrosion-proof, HDPE resists chemicals and rust, and fiber is lightweight for dry goods.
Yes. Natural HDPE and stainless steel drums are available in food-grade configurations for direct contact with food, beverages and ingredients. Our team can confirm the right liner and closure for your product.
A standard 55-gallon steel or plastic drum is roughly 22 to 23 inches in diameter and 33 to 35 inches tall. Exact dimensions vary by material and manufacturer, and our team can confirm specifications for your line.
Yes. UN/DOT-rated steel and plastic drums are certified for shipping regulated hazardous liquids and solids. The rating depends on the drum, closure and gasket combination, so confirm the full configuration with our specialists.
Drums carry bulk chemicals, solvents, paints, coatings, food ingredients, powders and industrial waste. The right material and head type depend on your product, so use the finder above or talk to a specialist.
Where can I buy 55-gallon drums near me?
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Novvia distributes 55-gallon drums nationwide from locations across the country. Visit our locations page or talk to a specialist to find stock and delivery near you.
Our packaging specialists will help you match the ideal 55-gallon drum to your product, storage, and compliance needs. We stock and ship nationwide.
