6 Best Large Capacity Feed Bins
Discover 6 budget-friendly, large capacity feed bins. These are the time-tested choices that experienced farmers trust for reliable, bulk storage.
Nothing sinks your heart faster than finding a feed bag torn open by mice, or worse, discovering a whole bin ruined by moisture. Wasted feed is wasted money, and protecting that investment is one of the smartest things you can do on a small farm. The right feed bin isn’t an expense; it’s a tool that pays for itself in saved grain and peace of mind.
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Choosing the Right Large Capacity Feed Bin
Before you buy anything, you need a clear picture of what "large capacity" means for your farm. It’s easy to buy a bin that’s too big, leaving feed to sit for months and go stale. A good rule of thumb is to have enough storage for two to four weeks of feed, which balances bulk savings with freshness.
Consider where the bin will live. A bin kept in a secure, dry barn has different requirements than one sitting outside a run-in shed, exposed to rain and determined raccoons. Material choice flows directly from this decision. Metal is the undisputed king for rodent and weather protection, while heavy-duty plastic offers a rust-proof, lighter-weight alternative for more protected areas.
Finally, think about access. A tall bin might hold more, but if you can’t easily scoop feed from the bottom, you’ll end up with old, compacted feed that can mold. The best bin is one you can use efficiently every single day, not one you have to fight with.
Behrens Galvanized Cans: A Rodent-Proof Classic
There’s a reason you see these shiny metal cans on every old farmstead. Behrens galvanized steel cans are simple, brutally effective, and relatively cheap. Their tight-fitting lids and steel construction make them virtually impenetrable to mice and rats, which is half the battle in feed storage.
Get durable, rust-proof trash disposal with this 6-gallon steel can. It features a locking lid and is proudly made in the USA.
The key is the lid. A loose, dented lid is an open invitation to pests. Always look for a can with a snug-fitting lid, and consider adding a bungee cord or a heavy rock on top for extra security against clever raccoons. The biggest downside is potential condensation inside if stored where temperatures fluctuate wildly, so keeping them in a stable environment is best.
Rubbermaid Brute Bins: Durable & Multi-Purpose
Move and store items easily with the durable Rubbermaid Brute Tote. Its secure lid keeps contents safe, while ergonomic handles reduce strain during transport.
The plastic equivalent of the old metal can is the Rubbermaid Brute. These things are tough, won’t rust, and are much lighter to move around when empty. They come in various sizes, from 20 to 55 gallons, making it easy to find one that fits your exact needs.
Their durability is legendary, but remember that they are still plastic. A truly desperate rat can chew through one, though it’s not common if other food sources are available. Their best use is inside a barn or a secure feed room where they are the last line of defense, not the first. The tight-sealing lids are excellent at keeping moisture and insects out, but don’t bet the farm on them stopping a determined rodent outdoors.
Tuff Stuff Stock Tanks for Bulk Feed Versatility
Sometimes the best feed bin isn’t a "bin" at all. Small, heavy-duty stock tanks, like those from Tuff Stuff, make incredible open-top bins for use inside a completely secure feed room. If you have a room that is already rodent-proof, these tanks let you dump multiple bags of feed for easy scooping.
This approach is all about bulk access. You can mix custom rations right in the tank and see exactly how much feed you have left at a glance. They are indestructible, easy to clean, and won’t ever rust or crack.
The major tradeoff is obvious: they offer zero protection on their own. This system only works if your feed room itself is a fortress. If you have any doubts about your room’s ability to keep pests out, this is not the option for you. But for those with a secure space, it’s a cheap and highly functional way to manage bulk feed.
The 55-Gallon Barrel: Ultimate DIY Budget Option
For the farmer who needs maximum capacity on a minimal budget, nothing beats the 55-gallon barrel. You can often find food-grade plastic barrels for cheap or even free. One barrel can hold around 250-300 pounds of pelleted feed, making it a serious storage solution.
The most important step is ensuring you get a food-grade barrel. Avoid any that have held chemicals or non-food substances. You’ll likely need to do some DIY work, like cutting an access hole in the top or creating a hinged lid. A simple plywood cutout with a handle works wonders.
Like the Brute bins, these plastic barrels are best kept inside a secure structure. While the thick plastic is a good deterrent, it’s not infallible. Their true power lies in their unbeatable cost-per-gallon storage, allowing you to buy feed in bulk and save significant money over time.
Little Giant Galvanized Feed Storage Bins
Keep bird seed fresh and secure with this galvanized steel storage bin. It holds up to 25 pounds and features a locking lid, integrated scoop, and side pocket for easy dispensing.
If you’re ready to move past basic cans and barrels, the purpose-built bins from Little Giant are a fantastic next step. These are designed specifically for feed, featuring tapered sides that prevent feed from bridging or compacting at the bottom. This ensures you’re always using the oldest feed first.
These bins feature a very tight, friction-fit lid that is excellent at keeping out moisture and pests. They are made of heavy-duty galvanized steel, so they check the rodent-proof box completely. While they cost more than a simple trash can, they represent a "buy it once, buy it for life" investment in proper feed management.
Behlen Country Bulk Bins for Serious Capacity
When you graduate to buying feed by the ton, you need a real bulk bin. Behlen Country makes gravity-feed bins that are a common sight on small and mid-sized farms. These are a serious investment, but they change your entire feed program.
Having a bin like this allows you to get feed delivered directly from the mill, which is the cheapest way to buy it. The cone-shaped bottom and slide gate make dispensing feed effortless. This isn’t a budget option in terms of upfront cost, but for a larger hobby farm with dozens of animals, the long-term savings on feed can be massive, often paying for the bin in just a couple of years.
Key Features for Your Ideal Large Capacity Bin
Choosing the right bin comes down to matching its features to your farm’s reality. Don’t get sold on something you don’t need. Instead, focus on the practical attributes that solve the core problems of feed storage: spoilage and pests.
No matter your budget, your final choice should be evaluated against a simple checklist. The right bin for you will have the best combination of these features for your specific situation:
- Pest-Proof Construction: Steel is best. Heavy plastic is good. Flimsy plastic is a waste of money.
- Weather Resistance: If it lives outside, it must have a watertight, secure lid. No exceptions.
- Appropriate Capacity: Big enough to hold a few weeks’ worth of feed, but not so big that feed goes stale.
- Ease of Access: You need to be able to scoop feed from the bottom easily and see how much is left.
- Durability: It needs to stand up to being knocked around, opened daily, and exposed to the elements.
Ultimately, the goal is to protect your feed from everything that wants to eat it or ruin it. A cheap can that does the job is a better investment than an expensive bin that doesn’t fit your workflow. Think honestly about your needs, your space, and your budget, and you’ll find the perfect solution.
Your feed bin is a silent partner in your farm’s success, working 24/7 to protect your investment. Choose wisely, and it will reward you with less waste, healthier animals, and more money in your pocket. That’s a piece of equipment that always earns its keep.
