How many 55-gallon drums fit in a 40ft container?
A 40ft container fits 80 standard 55-gallon drums on the floor. Stacked 2-high: 160 (if weight allows).
80
standard 55-gallon (200L) steel drums, single layer
- Single layer
- 80 drums
- 2-high
- 160 drums
- By weight (oil)
- ~130 drums
- Container payload
- 26,580 kg
Drum dimensions
| Type | Diameter | Height | Volume | Weight (water) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 55-gallon (US) | 572 mm | 876 mm | 208 L | ~220 kg |
| 30-gallon (US) | 483 mm | 711 mm | 114 L | ~120 kg |
Weight limit
160 drums of water = 35,200 kg — way over. The practical limit for water/oil is about 120–130 drums. For lighter chemicals or dry goods, 160 works.
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