The Basics of Using Shipping Drums for Transporting Hazardous Materials

Shipping Drums

Shipping drums are commonly used to transport hazardous liquids and solids.

Shipping drums are very convenient for transporting a large quantity of material. However, if you are using them to ship hazardous materials, your shipping drums will need to meet stringent requirements to keep everyone safe. Knowing the right kind of drum to use for your needs will also ensure that your company saves time and money and stays in compliance with regulatory codes. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind when using shipping drums to transport hazardous materials.

The Two Basic Types of Shipping Drums

Shipping drums are constructed from a few different kinds of materials, which we will go over later. In general, however, they fall into two categories. The first kind is known as open-head, or 1A2, drums. These have easily-removable covers that are closed with bolt rings or a lever lock. They are a practical option for shipping solid materials and thick liquids. The second kind of shipping drums available is called closed-head or tight-head drums. These have non-removable covers with openings on the top and are typically used to transport lower-viscosity liquids.

Three Common Drum Materials

When drums are used for shipping purposes, there are three types that are commonly used by companies, some of which are more suitable for transporting hazardous materials than others.

  • Plastic: commonly used for storing and transporting materials, plastic drums are high-quality options for both hazardous and non-hazardous products. They come in standardized sizes of 15, 30, and 55 gallons.
  • Steel: available in both open and closed-head varieties, steel shipping drums are the safest choice you can make for transporting hazardous goods. They are very durable and ensure that the materials you are shipping won’t be subject to the addition of impurities.
  • Fiberboard: these drums are easy to open and close, making them a great choice for transporting solid materials. Fiberboard drums are also environmentally friendly and cost-effective. Keep in mind that if you are using fiberboard drums to ship dangerous goods, only use the lock-rim variety.

Contact Airpack Today for Your Hazmat Packing and Shipping Needs

We have been pioneers in our industry for over 30 years and can assist you with your hazmat packing and shipping. We are able to meet any and all of your needs and our trained professional staff is here to help you with any questions you may have.

Feel free to contact us today or email us at [email protected]. Our fax number is 410-768-6603. You can also find and follow us on FacebookTwitter, and Google+, and be sure to subscribe to our blog to receive additional important postings concerning perishable packing, hazardous material shipping, and other services Airpack provides. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

This entry was posted on Friday, December 29th, 2017 at 9:42 am. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

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