Shipping Empty Plastic Barrels: What's The Cost?

Plastic barrels are a versatile and cost-effective solution for storing and shipping a wide range of items. They are lightweight, durable, and reusable, making them a popular choice for businesses looking to save money and reduce their environmental impact. When it comes to shipping empty plastic barrels, various factors come into play, including the size and weight of the barrel, the distance it needs to travel, and the shipping provider. Shipping costs can vary depending on these factors, and it's essential to choose a reputable carrier to ensure timely delivery. This introduction sets the stage for exploring the key considerations when determining the cost of shipping empty plastic barrels and highlights the benefits of using plastic barrels for storage and transportation.

Shipping costs depend on the weight and size of the barrel

When it comes to shipping, the weight of the barrel itself is just one factor in determining the overall cost. The weight of the contents inside the barrel will also play a significant role in the final shipping price. It is important to pack the barrel efficiently, minimizing empty space to prevent goods from shifting during transit and reducing the risk of damage.

Additionally, the shipping destination and the chosen carrier will influence the cost. Different carriers may have varying rates, and the distance travelled by the barrel will impact the overall shipping expense. It is worth noting that some carriers may charge additional fees for specific services or requirements, such as expedited delivery or special handling instructions.

To optimize shipping costs, it is advisable to select a barrel size that best fits the goods being transported. Choosing a barrel that is too large for the contents will increase the overall weight of the package and result in higher shipping charges. By carefully considering the size and weight of the barrel and its contents, as well as the chosen carrier and destination, you can make informed decisions to minimize shipping expenses.

Used plastic barrels are cheaper and better for the environment

Shipping costs can add up quickly, especially when dealing with large or heavy items. One way to reduce these costs is to opt for used plastic barrels, which are not only cheaper but also better for the environment.

Plastic barrels are a popular choice for shipping and storage due to their versatility and durability. They can be used to transport and store a wide range of materials, including food, beverages, lubricants, acids, solvents, and other industrial goods. They are also suitable for hazardous materials, as they can be sealed tightly to protect their contents from environmental conditions and contaminants.

Used plastic barrels offer the same functionality and durability as new ones but at a lower cost. By choosing used barrels, you can save money on your shipping and storage expenses. Additionally, buying used barrels helps reduce the demand for new plastic production, which has a negative environmental impact.

Plastic barrels are designed to be reused multiple times without degrading. They can be easily rinsed out and disinfected between uses, making them ideal for businesses that ship or store various products. Reusing plastic barrels also reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, as they can be utilized repeatedly before reaching the end of their lifespan.

Furthermore, plastic drums help reduce our environmental footprint by lowering energy use, material use, and carbon emissions. Plastic is an excellent insulator, which helps reduce energy consumption in heating and cooling. Additionally, plastic barrels can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, preventing them from contributing to environmental pollution.

Plastic barrels are versatile and can be used for food, liquids, and chemicals

Plastic barrels are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including storing and transporting food, liquids, and chemicals. They are commonly used in the industrial shipping industry due to their durability, ease of use, and ability to carry a wide range of products.

When it comes to food, plastic barrels are often used to store and transport items such as wheat, syrup, pickles, and food flavourings. They are also suitable for collecting rainwater, ensuring a source of clean water. Food-grade plastic drums are essential for this purpose, as they prevent contamination and ensure the food remains safe for consumption.

Liquids, such as oils, juices, sauces, and other liquid food products, are commonly stored and transported in plastic barrels. The tight-head plastic drums with sealed lids provide extra security and prevent leaks during transportation. This feature is especially important when dealing with hazardous or corrosive materials, which plastic barrels can safely accommodate.

One of the most popular uses for plastic barrels is transporting and storing chemicals. Their durability and resistance to degradation make them ideal for industrial chemicals. Common chemicals stored in plastic barrels include ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, methanol, and corrosive chemical waste. The barrels are produced from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), ensuring they won't react with the chemicals.

The versatility of plastic barrels extends beyond their ability to store various products. They are also reusable, cost-effective, and easy to clean. Proper cleaning methods, such as using water-based solvents and pressure hosing, ensure that plastic barrels can be used multiple times for different purposes. However, it is crucial to thoroughly clean barrels before switching between chemicals and food products to prevent contamination.

Plastic drums are lightweight, reducing shipping costs

Plastic drums are a great choice for storing and shipping a variety of items, from liquids to solids, and even hazardous materials. One of their key advantages is their lightweight nature, which can significantly reduce shipping costs.

The weight of a shipping container is a crucial factor in determining the overall shipping cost. Heavy containers require more fuel to transport and may require special equipment or handling, increasing the overall expense. Plastic drums, on the other hand, are made from lightweight materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which offers durability and impact resistance while keeping the overall weight low.

The lightweight design of plastic drums makes them highly versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications. They are perfect for shipping and storing food, beverages, chemicals, oils, solvents, grains, powders, and consumer goods. The drums are also available in different sizes, typically ranging from 14 to 77 gallons, ensuring that you can choose the right size for your needs without incurring unnecessary weight or space wastage.

Additionally, plastic drums are reusable and environmentally friendly. They can be easily rinsed and reused multiple times, reducing the need to purchase new shipping materials. This not only saves money but also helps conserve resources like fuel, electricity, and water. The durability of plastic drums ensures they can withstand repeated use without degrading, making them a cost-effective and sustainable choice for businesses.

By choosing plastic drums for shipping and storage, businesses can benefit from reduced shipping costs due to their lightweight nature, versatility, and reusability. This makes plastic drums a smart and economical choice, especially for those looking to minimize expenses and maximize the efficiency of their operations.

Plastic barrels are durable and reusable, but not suitable for hazardous materials

Plastic barrels are a cost-effective and durable solution for storing and shipping a variety of items. They are made from materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), nylon, and polystyrene, which are known for their high molecular weight and density. This makes plastic barrels highly durable and resilient, capable of withstanding weathering, temperature changes, and humid conditions. They are also resistant to ultraviolet radiation, making them suitable for outdoor storage.

The versatility of plastic barrels is another advantage. They come in various sizes, ranging from 8 to 77 gallons, and can be used to store and transport liquids, solids, and powders. They are commonly used for water, chemicals, agricultural products, food, beverages, lubricants, acids, solvents, and other industrial materials. Their lightweight design and robust seal make them ideal for shipping, ensuring leak-proof and secure transportation.

While plastic barrels are durable and reusable, it is important to note that they may not be suitable for hazardous materials. Although some plastic barrels can handle hazardous substances, such as acids and solvents, they require specific labeling and must comply with UN regulations for shipping or storing hazardous materials. These regulations are enforced by the D.O.T. and include the use of specialized labeling and pressure tests for certain types of drums. Recycled plastic barrels, for instance, are not FDA-approved for food or pharmaceutical storage.

When considering the cost of shipping empty plastic barrels, it is essential to factor in the weight and dimensions of the barrels, as well as the shipping destination. Some companies may charge an overweight handling fee for barrels exceeding a certain weight limit, such as 300 lbs. Shipping prices can vary depending on the location, with rates ranging from $85 to $170 for various destinations. It is recommended to check with shipping providers for specific quotes based on your requirements.

Frequently asked questions