6 Best Durable Storage Tubes For Animal Feed Old Farmers Swear By

Walking into your feed room only to find a shredded bag and a family of well-fed mice is a rite of passage no one wants to repeat. Keeping your grain fresh and secure is the difference between a healthy flock and a wasted paycheck. These six storage solutions have stood the test of time on small farms where every scoop counts.

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Why Farmers Prefer Uline and Behrens Storage Solutions

Experienced farmers know that "bargain" bins usually end up in the landfill after one harsh winter. Brands like Uline and Behrens have built reputations on industrial-grade durability that handles the daily wear and tear of a working barn. These aren’t your typical thin-walled plastic totes; they are engineered to withstand temperature swings and physical impact.

The preference comes down to consistency and replacement parts. If you lose a lid for a Behrens can or need a specific liner for a Uline drum, you can actually find them. This longevity means your initial investment pays for itself over a decade rather than a single season.

Relying on these brands also simplifies your workflow. Their dimensions are standardized, making it easy to stack containers or fit them into custom-built shelving units. When your storage is uniform, your feed room stays organized and manageable.

Schedule 40 PVC Pipes for Custom Gravity Feed Systems

Sometimes the best storage isn’t a bin at all, but a vertical tube that uses gravity to do the heavy lifting. Schedule 40 PVC is thick-walled and incredibly resilient, making it the perfect material for DIY "tube" feeders. It keeps feed off the ground and moves it directly to the animal’s level without manual scooping.

This setup is a game-changer for tight spaces like chicken coops or rabbitries. By mounting 4-inch or 6-inch pipes to the wall, you save valuable floor space while keeping a multi-day supply of grain protected. The smooth interior of the PVC ensures that pellets slide down easily without bridging or clogging.

You do have to be mindful of moisture at the exit point. A simple cap or a 45-degree elbow at the bottom prevents rain from blowing in and ruining the batch. It’s a low-cost, high-efficiency system that any hobby farmer can assemble in an afternoon.

Uline Industrial Fiber Drums for Bulk Grain Protection

Fiber drums are the unsung heroes for storing dry grains in climate-controlled areas like a garage or a dry barn. They are surprisingly sturdy and significantly lighter than steel, making them easier to shift around when you’re cleaning. These drums offer a level of breathability that prevents "sweating" in certain types of whole grains.

The tradeoff is that fiber drums are not moisture-proof or rodent-proof if left in the open. You have to keep them on a pallet or a raised platform to prevent the bottom from wicking up dampness from concrete floors. They are best used for bulk storage of dry goods like sunflower seeds or corn that you use up relatively quickly.

For a hobby farmer on a budget, these are often the most cost-effective way to buy in bulk. They provide a rigid structure that won’t collapse under weight, unlike poly bags. Just ensure your storage area is secure from chewing pests before committing to fiber.

Behrens Galvanized Steel Cans for Rodent-Proof Storage

If you have a persistent rat or squirrel problem, you need galvanized steel. Behrens cans are the gold standard because rodents simply cannot chew through the metal. The tight-fitting lids create a physical barrier that keeps pests out and smells in, which is crucial for preventing unwanted visitors.

These cans also resist rust better than cheap knock-offs thanks to their hot-dipped galvanizing process. You can store them in damp sheds without worrying about the bottom rusting out in a year. They are heavy enough to stay put but light enough to carry by the side handles when empty.

One thing to watch is the "clanging" noise, which can startle nervous livestock. However, the peace of mind knowing your expensive organic feed is safe from vermin is worth the occasional noise. They are virtually indestructible and often get passed down through generations of farmers.

Eagle Manufacturing Poly Drums for Weather Resistance

For those who need to keep feed near the paddock or outdoors, Eagle’s poly drums are the ultimate solution. Made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), these drums are UV-resistant and won’t become brittle in the sun. They are designed to survive the elements, from freezing snow to blistering summer heat.

The screw-top lids on many Eagle models provide a water-tight seal that is superior to standard snap-on lids. This is essential if you’re storing feed in an area prone to heavy rain or high humidity. You won’t have to worry about the grain fermenting or molding due to a leaky seal.

While they are more expensive than basic plastic bins, their durability is unmatched. They can handle being bumped by a curious goat or knocked over by a horse without cracking. For outdoor applications, poly is almost always the smarter choice over steel or fiber.

Vestil Open-Head Steel Drums for Long-Term Security

When you’re buying grain in bulk to hedge against rising prices, you need a fortress. Vestil’s open-head steel drums come with heavy-duty lever-lock rings that create a near-airtight seal. This level of security is perfect for long-term storage of winter reserves or emergency feed supplies.

The heavy-gauge steel provides a massive amount of structural integrity. You can stack these drums three high if you have the equipment, allowing you to store hundreds of pounds of feed in a tiny footprint. The interior linings are often food-grade, ensuring no metallic taste leaches into the feed.

The main drawback is the weight; once these are full, they aren’t moving without a hand truck. They are a "set it and forget it" solution for the back of the barn. If you value security and volume above all else, these steel drums are the way to go.

Global Industrial Plastic Drums for Easy Feed Access

Global Industrial offers plastic drums that strike a perfect balance between mobility and strength. Many of their designs feature molded-in handles or are compatible with heavy-duty dollies. This makes it much easier to roll 200 pounds of feed from the delivery truck to the storage room.

The smooth interior walls of these drums are a subtle but vital feature. Feed dust and fines don’t get trapped in corners, which significantly reduces the risk of mold and insect infestations. When the drum is empty, a quick wipe-down is all it takes to prep it for the next load.

These drums are ideal for the daily-use feed that you access every morning. The lids are secure but easy to remove, saving you from fumbling with complex latches when your hands are cold. They represent a modern, ergonomic approach to traditional farm chores.

Maintaining Your Uline and Behrens Storage Containers

Even the best industrial container requires a bit of upkeep to stay in top shape. Between every refill, take the time to tip the container over and sweep out the "fines"—the powdery leftovers at the bottom. These fines are where moisture collects and where grain weevils love to start their colonies.

A simple wash with a diluted vinegar solution once or twice a year will keep the interior smelling fresh. This is especially important for plastic containers, which can sometimes absorb the oils from pelleted feeds over time. Ensure the container is bone-dry before adding new grain, or you’ll trigger a mold breakout.

Check your seals and gaskets annually to ensure they haven’t dried out or cracked. A quick rub with a food-safe silicone spray can keep rubber gaskets supple and airtight for years. Small maintenance steps like these turn a five-year container into a twenty-year asset.

Choosing the right storage is about matching your specific environment to the right material. Once you stop fighting pests and moisture, your daily chores become a rhythm rather than a struggle. Invest in quality containers today, and your animals—and your wallet—will thank you for seasons to come.