A Comprehensive Guide to Drum Equipment
23rd Apr 2025
Handling, transporting, and storing drums requires specialized equipment that ensures safety, efficiency, and durability. Whether you're managing a warehouse, a manufacturing plant, or a chemical storage area, having the right drum-handling tools can make a significant difference. Material Flow offers a complete lineup of drum-handling equipment, including drum trucks, dollies, grabs, cradles, and storage racks — all engineered for performance. In this guide, we break down each product type and compare Material Flow’s offerings with other trusted brands.
DRUM TRUCKS
Drum trucks are essential for safely moving heavy drums from one point to another. Material Flow offers a variety of options designed to handle 30- and 55-gallon drums with ease.
Pros (Material Flow):
- Durable construction with ergonomic designs
- Options for upright, tilt-back, and multi-function trucks
- Suitable for both steel and plastic drums
Cons:
- May require training for heavier-duty models
Alternatives:
Brands Also Offering Drum Trucks: Dutro, Fairbanks Company, Hamilton Caster, Harper Trucks, Morse, Pucel Enterprises, Valley Craft, Vestil, and Wesco
Pros (Other Brands):
- Some offer specialized wheels or lightweight designs
- Meco Omaha known for rugged builds
Cons:
- May lack the variety and modular options Material Flow provides
DRUM DOLLIES
For moving drums quickly and easily across smooth surfaces, drum dollies offer unmatched mobility. Ideal for tight spaces and short distances.
Pros (Material Flow):
- High load capacity
- Swivel casters for full 360° mobility
- Fits standard 30/55-gallon drums
Cons:
- Not suited for rough or uneven surfaces
Alternatives:
Other Brands Offering Dollies:
Bayhead, Fairbanks Company, Giant Move Equipment Co., Hamilton Caster, Meco Omaha, Morse, Pucel Enterprises, Valley Craft, and Vestil
Pros (Other Brands):
- Some offer nested designs for storage
- Specialized models for spill containment
Cons:
- Variable quality between models
DRUM GRABS
Drum grabs make lifting and securing drums with forklifts or hoists much safer and more efficient.
Pros (Material Flow):
- Forklift-compatible
- Automatic grabbing mechanism
- Built to handle various drum sizes and materials
Cons:
- Requires compatible lifting equipment
Alternative:
Pros (Wesco):
- Simple, reliable design
- Cost-effective for small operations
Cons:
- Fewer safety features than Material Flow’s designs
DRUM CRADLES
Drum cradles are ideal for dispensing or tipping drums for easier access to contents.
Pros (Material Flow):
- Heavy-duty frames
- Easy tilting for draining contents
- Compact footprint
Cons:
- Limited to horizontal applications
Alternative:
Pros (Pucel):
- Simple steel construction
- Often more budget-friendly
Cons:
- Less ergonomic and fewer handle features
DRUM STORAGE RACKS
Designed for safe, space-efficient storage, drum racks help organize multiple drums in a vertical stack, maximizing floor space.
Material Flow 3-Level Drum Rack (12 drums)
Material Flow 4-Level Drum Rack (16 drums) 
Pros (Material Flow):
- Designed to safely store 12 to 16 drums
- Secure steel construction
- Great for bulk chemical or oil storage
Cons:
- Not mobile once loaded
Alternative:
Pros (Vestil):
- Compatible with forklifts
- Stackable models available
Cons:
- May require extra components for stabilization
Final Thoughts
Material Flow offers one of the most complete drum-handling product lines in the industry, ideal for businesses seeking safe, long-term solutions. From mobility tools like drum trucks and dollies to storage and access equipment like grabs, cradles, and racks, there’s a specialized product for every need.
While other brands like Meco Omaha, Morse, Wesco, and Pucel offer competitive options, Material Flow stands out with its integrated designs, durability, and customization options.
Need help choosing the right drum equipment? Contact the Material Flow team to get expert recommendations tailored to your facility’s needs.
