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Fiber Drums

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.

Kraft Paperboard Body

Lightweight Handling

Moisture Liner Options

Smooth Interior

Overview

Built for industrial duty

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.

UN-Rated Options

Compliant with UN/DOT regulations for safe transport of solid hazardous materials.

Superior Strength

Reinforced top and bottom chimes for reliable stacked storage and transport.

Wide Compatibility

Ideal for powders, granules, tablets, and dry food-grade ingredients.

Sustainable Choice

100% recyclable and made from renewable materials for a lower carbon footprint.

Specifications

Full 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

What 55-gallon drums carry

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

Configure the right drum

01

Product Compatibility

Ensure your material is dry, granular, or solid, as standard fiber cannot hold non-contained liquids.

01

Closure Style

Opt for a classic lever-lock metal ring for easy, repetitive sealing or an all-fiber slide-on lid.

01

Liners & Barriers

Choose an integrated polyethylene or foil liner if your product requires moisture protection.

01

Shipping Regulations

Verify UN-rated drums for the safe transport of hazardous materials.

Compare

Compare drum types

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

Explore other drums

Steel Drums

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Stainless Steel Drums

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HDPE Plastic Drums

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FAQ

55-gallon drum FAQs

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.

Still deciding?

Not sure which container is right?

Our packaging specialists will help you match the ideal container to your product, storage, and compliance needs. We stock and ship nationwide.