
DURABLE. RELIABLE. BUILT FOR THE TOUGHEST JOBS.
For Dry Products, Powders & Solids
Fiber drums are the lightweight, cost-effective choice for storing and shipping dry materials. Made from high-strength kraft paperboard, they offer thermal protection and secure containment for powders, grains, and solid industrial products.
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Kraft Paperboard Body
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Lightweight Handling
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Moisture Liner Options
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Smooth Interior
Overview
Premium high-density kraft paperboard drums offering maximum structural integrity at minimum tare weight. Ideal for dry ingredients, pharmaceutical powders, and bulk solids, with smooth non-abrasive walls and a low-weight, freight-saving design.
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Compliant with UN/DOT regulations for safe transport of solid hazardous materials.
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Reinforced top and bottom chimes for reliable stacked storage and transport.
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Ideal for powders, granules, tablets, and dry food-grade ingredients.
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100% recyclable and made from renewable materials for a lower carbon footprint.
Specifications
Nominal Capacity
55 U.S. gallons (208 Liters)
Material
High-Strength Kraft Paperboard
Height
34.5 in (876 mm)
Diameter
22.5 in (572 mm)
Wall Construction
Heavy-Wall Multi-Ply Fiber
Weight
15-20 lbs (6.8-9 kg)
Closure & Fittings
Steel Lever-Lock Ring with Fiber or Plastic Cover
UN Certification
UN 1G/Y145/S and other ratings by configuration
Interior
Optional Poly-Liner or Plain Kraft
Exterior Finish
Natural Kraft Protective Finish
Common Uses
Acids & Caustics
Paints & Coatings
Industrial Chemicals
Food-Grade Ingredients
Liquid Fertilizers
Hazardous Liquids
Water Treatment Chemicals
Agricultural Chemicals
Waste & Recovery Materials
How to spec yours
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Ensure your material is dry, granular, or solid, as standard fiber cannot hold non-contained liquids.
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Opt for a classic lever-lock metal ring for easy, repetitive sealing or an all-fiber slide-on lid.
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Choose an integrated polyethylene or foil liner if your product requires moisture protection.
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Verify UN-rated drums for the safe transport of hazardous materials.
Compare
Type
Best For
Key Benefit
Consideration
Steel Drums
Solvents, fuels, and UN-rated hazardous liquids and solids
Can corrode; heavier than plastic
Maximum strength and durability
Stainless Steel Drums
Corrosive, high-purity, food and pharma products needing a reusable drum
Highest upfront cost
Corrosion-proof and sanitary
HDPE Plastic Drums
Non-hazardous liquids and industrial chemicals
Not ideal for high heat
Chemical resistance, won't rust
Natural HDPE Drums
Food, beverage, and pharma products needing fill-level visibility
Less UV resistance
Product visibility
Black HDPE Drums
Light-sensitive chemicals and lubricants for outdoor storage
Heat can cause expansion
UV protection
Fiber Drums
Dry powders, granules, and solid bulk products
Not for liquids
Lightweight and recyclable
Related Products
What is a fiber drum used for?
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Fiber drums are lightweight containers for storing and transporting dry, granular, and semi-liquid products, including bulk chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and food ingredients. With an optional liner they can also hold pastes and contained liquids.
Are fiber drums safe for food-grade products?
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Yes. When fitted with an FDA-compliant polyethylene or foil liner, fiber drums provide a clean, food-safe barrier ideal for powders, grains, and dry food ingredients. The kraft body also offers natural thermal protection during storage and transit.
Can fiber drums be reused or recycled?
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Fiber drums are made from renewable kraft paperboard and are 100% recyclable. Many can be reused for several cycles when kept dry and undamaged, making them one of the most sustainable bulk packaging options available.
What are the benefits of choosing fiber over plastic or steel?
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Fiber drums are far lighter than steel and cheaper than steel or plastic, cutting freight and handling costs. They are renewable, recyclable, and have smooth walls that protect powders, though they suit dry products rather than free-flowing liquids.
How should fiber drums be stored to protect the contents?
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Keep fiber drums in a dry, covered area off the floor, since the kraft body is sensitive to moisture and humidity. Use a poly or foil liner for hygroscopic powders, and stay within the rated stack load when contents are heavy.
How are 55-gallon drums handled and moved?
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Filled 55-gallon drums are moved with drum dollies, forklift attachments, or rimmed drum handlers rather than by hand, and stored upright on a flat surface. Confirm the filled weight and follow safe lifting and stacking limits for your contents.
Our packaging specialists will help you match the ideal container to your product, storage, and compliance needs. We stock and ship nationwide.