A 55-gallon drum holds approximately 39-42 bushels of shelled corn (56 lbs per bushel).

A standard 55-gallon drum (208 liters) filled with shelled corn typically holds 39-42 bushels, assuming proper settling. Volume varies slightly based on kernel size, moisture content, and packing density. For whole-ear corn, capacity drops to 18-22 bushels due to air gaps.

Key Factors Affecting Capacity

  • Corn form: Shelled (loose kernels) packs tighter than whole ears.
  • Moisture content: Drier corn (≤15%) occupies less space than damp corn.
  • Packing method: Vibrated or compressed corn increases bushel count by 5-10%.
  • Kernel size: Smaller kernels (e.g., popcorn) allow more bushels per drum.

Bushel Capacity by Corn Type

Corn Type Bushels per 55-Gallon Drum Weight (lbs) Notes
Shelled (field corn) 39-42 2,184-2,352 Standard 56 lbs/bushel; settled volume.
Whole ear (husked) 18-22 1,008-1,232 70 lbs/bushel; air gaps reduce capacity.
Popcorn (shelled) 44-48 2,464-2,688 Smaller kernels; higher pack density.

How to Calculate for Your Corn

  1. Weigh a test sample: Fill a 1-gallon container with your corn and weigh it (lbs).
  2. Convert to bushels:
    • Shelled: (weight per gallon × 55) ÷ 56 = bushels.
    • Whole ear: (weight per gallon × 55) ÷ 70 = bushels.
  3. Adjust for moisture: Subtract 1-2 bushels if corn is >15% moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Assuming fixed volume: Bushels vary by corn type-never use a single estimate for all.
  • Ignoring settling: Corn compacts over time; remeasure after 24 hours for accuracy.
  • Overfilling: A drum's usable capacity is ~50-53 gallons when accounting for headspace.
  • Confusing volume vs. weight: A "55-gallon" drum's weight limit (often 400-500 lbs) may restrict bushels for heavy corn.

Alternate Storage Containers (Comparison)

Container Volume (Gallons) Shelled Corn Bushels Whole Ear Bushels Pros/Cons
55-gallon drum 55 39-42 18-22 ✅ Durable, stackable; ❌ Heavy when full.
30-gallon trash can 30 21-23 10-12 ✅ Lightweight; ❌ Less pest-proof.
Grain bag (1,000 bu) N/A 1,000 N/A ✅ High capacity; ❌ Requires equipment.