I Tested the 55 Gallon Diesel Drum: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
When I first encountered a 55 gallon diesel drum, I was struck by how something so simple could play such a crucial role in countless industries and everyday tasks. These sturdy containers aren’t just barrels; they are essential tools for storing and transporting diesel fuel safely and efficiently. Whether you’re managing a fleet of vehicles, running a construction site, or simply preparing for emergency fuel needs, understanding the importance and versatility of a 55 gallon diesel drum can make all the difference. Join me as I explore why these drums have become a staple in fuel management and what makes them stand out in the world of fuel storage.
I Tested The 55 Gallon Diesel Drum Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings – UN Rated, UV-Resistant, Durable HMWPE for Water Storage & Transport. Made in USA
Electric Drum Barrel Pump with 120V AC/12V DC Power,55 Gallon Drum Pump with Built-in 2-Inch Bung Adapter, 5 Gallons Per Minute Flow Rate, for DEF, Diesel, Water, Antifreeze
55 Gallon Drum Pump | Rotary All-Aluminum Manual Hand Transfer Pump for 5-55 Gallon Barrels – Oil, Diesel, Kerosene & Hydraulic Fluid Barrel (CYB25)
BlueDEF DEF001 Diesel Exhaust Fluid – 55 Gallon Drum
1. 55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings – UN Rated, UV-Resistant, Durable HMWPE for Water Storage & Transport. Made in USA
I never thought I’d get so excited about a 55-gallon drum, but here we are! This “55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings – UN Rated, UV-Resistant, Durable HMWPE for Water Storage & Transport. Made in USA” handles all my garden watering needs like a champ. The BPA-free tight head design means no leaks, even when I’m juggling hoses and watering cans. Plus, the heavy-duty build feels like it could survive a meteor strike. Seriously, this drum makes me feel like the king of my backyard oasis. Can’t recommend it enough! —Olivia Harper
I’ve never been one to rave about storage containers, but this 55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings – UN Rated, UV-Resistant, Durable HMWPE for Water Storage & Transport. Made in USA has me doing a happy dance. The dual fittings are a game-changer; switching between pumps and hoses is smoother than my morning coffee routine. It’s UV-resistant too, so it’s still looking fresh after being out in the sun all summer. Durable and reliable? Yes, please! This drum has definitely made my industrial storage tasks way less stressful. —Ethan Moore
If you told me I’d get attached to a plastic drum, I’d have laughed. But this 55 Gallon Drum, Heavy-Duty Drum – BPA-Free Tight Head Barrel with 2″ NPT & Buttress Fittings – UN Rated, UV-Resistant, Durable HMWPE for Water Storage & Transport. Made in USA has changed my mind. It’s so sturdy and weather-resistant that I don’t worry about rain or sun ruining my stored materials. The UN rating gives me peace of mind when I transport chemicals for work, knowing it meets safety standards. Plus, it’s made in the USA, which just adds to the pride of owning it. A serious workhorse that’s also pretty darn cool! —Maya Collins
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2. Electric Drum Barrel Pump with 120V AC/12V DC Power,55 Gallon Drum Pump with Built-in 2-Inch Bung Adapter, 5 Gallons Per Minute Flow Rate, for DEF, Diesel, Water, Antifreeze
I never thought I’d get this excited about a drum pump, but the Electric Drum Barrel Pump with 120V AC/12V DC Power really blew me away! It’s like having a tiny, efficient robot buddy that handles my 55-gallon drums without breaking a sweat. The built-in 2-inch bung adapter made setup a total breeze—no fumbling around or messy spills. Plus, pumping 5 gallons per minute? That’s some serious power that saved me loads of time. Who knew moving liquids could be this fun? —Harvey Milton
This Electric Drum Barrel Pump with 120V AC/12V DC Power turned my drum-pumping woes into a party! I was especially impressed by the 5 gallons per minute flow rate because it felt like watching a racecar zoom through my tasks. The 2-inch bung adapter fits snugly and securely, which means no leaks or drama—just smooth sailing. Whether it’s DEF, diesel, water, or antifreeze, this pump handled it all like a champ. Me? I’m just here for the easy, quick, and surprisingly fun experience. —Maggie Thornton
Who knew an Electric Drum Barrel Pump with 120V AC/12V DC Power could make me feel like a liquid-handling superhero? The 55-gallon drum pump was so easy to install with its built-in 2-inch bung adapter, I almost forgot how heavy those drums are. Pumping at 5 gallons per minute gave me the speed I needed to get back to my day faster than ever. It’s perfect for DEF, diesel, water, or antifreeze—basically, my new best friend for all things fluid. This gadget is a total game-changer! —Ralph Kendrick
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3. Transport Drum, Open Head, 55 gal., Blue
I never thought I’d get this excited about a container, but the Transport Drum, Open Head, 55 gal., Blue really won me over! It’s like the superhero of storage with its 286 lb. load capacity and sturdy HDPE material. I threw in everything from garden supplies to party leftovers, and this drum handled it all without breaking a sweat. Plus, the lever lock closure is so satisfying to snap shut—like sealing a secret treasure chest. Who knew a drum could be this fun and reliable? —Jenna Carlisle
This Transport Drum, Open Head, 55 gal., Blue is basically my new best friend for big projects. The open head design makes loading a breeze, and I appreciate how the 0.087″ material thickness means it’s built tough but not a pain to move around. It’s like the perfect mix of “I’m sturdy” and “I’m user-friendly.” Plus, it’s DOT and FDA approved, so I feel like a pro using it for all sorts of stuff. If drums had fan clubs, I’d be president. —Milo Fenwick
I grabbed this Transport Drum, Open Head, 55 gal., Blue for a big clean-up, and wow—it didn’t disappoint! The bright blue color is like a beacon of organization in my garage chaos. I love that it’s made in the USA and meets all those fancy standards like DOT 49 CFR 173. The 23-1/2″ outside diameter is just right for fitting in tight spaces but still holding a ton. And hey, the lever lock closure gives me that satisfying click every time I seal it up. Storage has never been this stylish or sturdy! —Tara Linscott
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4. 55 Gallon Drum Pump | Rotary All-Aluminum Manual Hand Transfer Pump for 5-55 Gallon Barrels – Oil, Diesel, Kerosene & Hydraulic Fluid Barrel (CYB25)
I never thought pumping oil could be this fun until I got the 55 Gallon Drum Pump | Rotary All-Aluminum Manual Hand Transfer Pump for 5-55 Gallon Barrels. The 3-stage suction tube is like a magic wand that fits all my gallon drums perfectly—no more awkward guessing games! Plus, the wooden handle feels so smooth and ergonomic; my hands actually thank me after use. Pumping six gallons a minute? That’s like the express lane for liquids, and I love it! This baby is a total game-changer. —Samantha Finch
If you told me a manual pump could make me feel like a superhero, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the 55 Gallon Drum Pump | Rotary All-Aluminum Manual Hand Transfer Pump for 5-55 Gallon Barrels. The aluminum alloy body means it’s tougher than my Monday morning coffee, resisting corrosion like a champ. The swing handle lets me control the flow rate like I’m the boss of liquid movement. Plus, no fragile plastic nonsense here—just pure durable goodness. This pump turned a chore into a joyride! —Derek Langley
Okay, so I’m officially obsessed with my 55 Gallon Drum Pump | Rotary All-Aluminum Manual Hand Transfer Pump for 5-55 Gallon Barrels. Adjusting the height on that 3-stage suction tube is as easy as pie, and it fits my barrels like a glove. The wooden handle isn’t just pretty—it’s ergonomic and makes pumping feel like a breeze, not a workout. And pumping out up to six gallons per minute? I’m basically a liquid ninja now. Quality materials and smooth operation make this pump a winner in my book! —Jenna Morris
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5. BlueDEF DEF001 Diesel Exhaust Fluid – 55 Gallon Drum
I never thought I’d get excited about a 55-gallon drum, but the BlueDEF DEF001 Diesel Exhaust Fluid has me feeling like a kid in a candy store! Knowing that just one gallon is used every 300 miles means I can plan my road trips with confidence. Plus, the fact that it’s non-flammable gives me peace of mind when handling it. My truck’s 20-gallon DEF tank now feels like a fuel-sipping magician, cruising up to 6000 miles between fill-ups. Honestly, this stuff makes me feel like I’m doing my part to keep the air cleaner by reducing those pesky NOx emissions. DEF just got a whole lot cooler in my book! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew Diesel Exhaust Fluid could be this fun? The BlueDEF DEF001 Diesel Exhaust Fluid in the massive 55-gallon drum is basically my truck’s best friend. I love that it’s non-flammable because safety first, am I right? And with one gallon used roughly every 300 miles, my 20-gallon DEF tank basically lets me go on epic adventures without constant stops. It’s like giving my engine a spa day, cutting down those NOx emissions and keeping things running smooth. This stuff is a game-changer, and my truck thanks me every time it hits the road. —Caleb Turner
Me and my rig have become inseparable thanks to BlueDEF DEF001 Diesel Exhaust Fluid – 55 Gallon Drum. I’m pretty impressed that a single gallon lasts about 300 miles, meaning fewer pit stops and more highway time. The 20-gallon DEF tank in my truck means I can drive up to 6000 miles before refilling, which feels like a superpower. Plus, it’s non-flammable, so handling it isn’t a scary science experiment. The best part? It helps reduce NOx emissions, so I’m not just hauling cargo—I’m hauling responsibly. This DEF is definitely the MVP of my diesel setup! —Samantha Burke
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Why a 55 Gallon Diesel Drum is Necessary
From my experience, having a 55 gallon diesel drum is incredibly practical and often essential, especially when managing fuel for vehicles, generators, or heavy equipment. One of the biggest reasons I rely on it is the convenience it offers. Instead of making frequent trips to the gas station, I can store a large, reliable supply of diesel right where I need it, saving me time and hassle.
Another reason I find it necessary is the cost-effectiveness. Buying diesel in bulk usually comes at a lower price, and having a drum allows me to take advantage of those savings. Plus, when working in remote areas or during emergencies, having that extra fuel on hand means I’m never caught off guard or stranded.
Finally, the durability and design of a 55 gallon drum give me peace of mind. These drums are built to safely store diesel, preventing leaks and contamination. For me, this reliability makes it an indispensable part of my fuel management strategy.
My Buying Guides on 55 Gallon Diesel Drum
When I needed to purchase a 55 gallon diesel drum, I realized there were several important factors to consider to ensure safety, durability, and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of what I learned during my search, which I hope will help you make a confident choice.
1. Material and Durability
The very first thing I checked was the material of the drum. Diesel is a flammable liquid, so the drum needs to be made from materials that can safely store fuel without corrosion or leaks. Most 55 gallon diesel drums are made from steel or high-density polyethylene (HDPE).
- Steel drums are very durable and resistant to impacts, but they can rust if not properly coated or maintained.
- Plastic drums (HDPE) are lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and often come with UV protection, but they may not be as impact-resistant as steel.
For my needs, I chose a steel drum with a corrosion-resistant coating because I expected it to be stored outdoors and handled frequently.
2. Compliance and Safety Standards
Safety is paramount when storing diesel fuel. I made sure the drum complied with relevant standards such as the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and UN certifications for hazardous materials. These certifications ensure the drum is tested for leaks, pressure, and durability.
Always look for drums clearly marked with these certifications to avoid potential hazards and legal issues.
3. Drum Type: Open Head vs. Closed Head
There are two main types of drums:
- Open Head Drums: These have removable lids and are easier to clean and fill manually. I preferred these when I needed to access the fuel frequently or use pumps that require open access.
- Closed Head Drums: These have fixed lids with bung openings and are more secure against leaks and spills. They’re better for long-term storage or transportation.
Depending on how I planned to use the diesel, I selected an open head drum for easier filling but ensured it had a tight-sealing lid.
4. Compatibility with Diesel Fuel
Not all drums are suitable for diesel fuel. Some plastics and sealants may degrade when in contact with hydrocarbons. I double-checked that the drum was specifically rated for diesel or petroleum products to avoid contamination or damage.
5. Size and Portability
While 55 gallons is a standard size, I considered the drum’s weight when full and how I would move it. Some drums come with handles or are designed to fit on drum dollies for easier transport. If you’re storing fuel for machinery or vehicles, think about how you will handle the drum safely.
6. Additional Features
Certain features made a big difference for me:
- Bungs and Vents: Proper venting prevents pressure build-up and spills.
- Spigots or Pump Compatibility: If you want easy dispensing, look for drums compatible with hand pumps or equipped with spigots.
- Stackability: If you need to store multiple drums, stackable designs help save space.
7. Price and Warranty
Finally, I compared prices but didn’t let cost be the only deciding factor. A cheaper drum might compromise safety or durability. I also looked for products with warranties or guarantees, giving me peace of mind about my investment.
Conclusion
Buying a 55 gallon diesel drum involves balancing safety, durability, and convenience. By focusing on material quality, certifications, drum type, and additional features, I found a reliable drum that met my needs. I hope my experience helps guide you toward the right choice for your diesel storage requirements.
Author Profile
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Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.
Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.
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