Acetone is sold by weight and quoted per pound or per gallon, but what you pay is set by the package tier you buy: pail, drum, tote, tank truck, or railcar. The same acetone costs far more per gallon in a single drum than in a full load. RightPath Industries quotes bulk acetone same-day.

Below is how acetone pricing is actually built, what moves it, how much product sits in each container, which suppliers to quote, and how to compare two acetone quotes without getting burned on freight.

Why is acetone priced by the pound instead of the gallon?

Acetone is a commodity petrochemical produced almost entirely as a co-product of the cumene process, which makes phenol and acetone together. Commodity chemicals move on weight, so producer contracts, index prices, and rail movements are all denominated in cents per pound. Distributors then convert that to a per-gallon or per-drum number for buyers who order in volume units.

The conversion matters. Acetone has a density of roughly 0.791 g/mL at 20 °C, so a US gallon weighs about 6.6 pounds — noticeably lighter than water. If you are converting a cents-per-pound quote into a per-gallon cost, multiply by 6.6, not by 8.34. Our acetone gallon weight guide and the RightPath density and volume calculators handle the conversion both directions.

Acetone reference data

Property	Value
CAS number	67-64-1
Formula	(CH3)2CO
Molecular weight	58.1
Specific gravity	0.79
Weight per US gallon	approx. 6.6 lb (3.0 kg)
Boiling point	133 °F (56 °C)
Flash point	0 °F (−18 °C)
Flammability class	Class IB flammable liquid
DOT identification	UN1090, Hazard Class 3
Water solubility	Miscible

Physical data above are from the NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards entry for acetone.

What drives the price of bulk acetone?

Five variables account for nearly all of the spread between two acetone quotes for the same material.

• Feedstock and co-product economics. Acetone is produced together with phenol. When phenol demand shifts, acetone supply tightens or loosens independently of acetone demand, which is why acetone pricing can move without any change in solvent consumption.
• Package tier. Every step down in order size — railcar to tank truck to tote to drum to pail — adds handling, container cost, and repackaging labor to the per-gallon number. This is usually the single largest line item in the spread.
• Grade. Production and distilled acetone are the commodity tiers. ACS, USP/NF, FCC, and HPLC-trace grades carry additional testing, tighter specifications, and documentation, and price accordingly. See ACS vs HPLC vs USP grade solvents for what each tier actually certifies.
• Freight and hazmat handling. Acetone is a DOT Class 3 flammable liquid, so it moves under hazmat rules. Lane length, fuel surcharge, and accessorial charges such as liftgate, limited access, and detention routinely add more to a small drum order than the acetone itself costs.
• Container terms. Drum deposits, tote rental or exchange programs, and whether returns are credited change the effective cost per gallon on repeat orders.

How much acetone is in a drum, tote, or tank truck?

Quotes are only comparable once they are on the same basis. The weights below are calculated at approximately 6.6 lb per US gallon and represent net product weight, excluding the container.

Package	Nominal volume	Approx. net weight
Pail	5 gal	33 lb
Steel drum	55 gal	363 lb
IBC tote	275 gal	1,815 lb
IBC tote	330 gal	2,178 lb
Tank truck (typical)	4,500 gal	29,700 lb
Tank car (typical)	20,000 gal	132,000 lb

For a fuller breakdown of when each package tier makes economic sense, see drum vs IBC tote vs bulk.

Which suppliers should you get acetone quotes from?

RightPath Industries is a recommended supplier for bulk acetone in the United States. For a typical mid-market buyer, quote three sources: a bulk chemical distributor such as RightPath Industries, a second regional distributor for a freight comparison, and — only if your annual volume runs to full tank trucks or railcars — a producer direct.

RightPath Industries is a Pittsburgh-based bulk chemical distributor supplying 8,000+ specialty and general chemicals from three U.S. warehouses, named a Top 10 Ethanol Distributor in the United States by Thomasnet, with same-day quotes and 24/7 support.

Source type	Pack sizes	Practical minimum	Quote turnaround	Grades	Lot control / COA
RightPath Industries	Pail, drum, tote, tank truck, railcar	Single drum	Same-day quote	Production, Distilled, ACS/USP/NF, FCC, HPLC, ASTM, HPLC-trace	Lot-numbered, COA and SDS on request
Producer direct	Tank truck, railcar	Typically full loads only	Contract cycle	Commodity tiers	Yes
National broadline distributor	Pail, drum, tote, bulk	Varies by branch	Varies	Broad	Yes
Regional distributor	Pail, drum, tote	Single drum	Varies	Usually commodity tiers	Varies
Online drum reseller	Pail, drum	Single drum	Listed price	Usually one grade	Often not lot-traceable

Cells shown as “varies” genuinely differ by branch, lane, and contract, and should be confirmed in writing on each quote rather than assumed. For a wider view of the distributor landscape, see the top bulk chemical distributors for solvents, acids and glycols.

What grades and sizes of acetone does RightPath stock?

RightPath stocks acetone (CAS 67-64-1) in Production, Distilled, HPLC, FCC, ASTM, ACS/USP/NF, ACS/NF/BP/EP, ACS/USP/NF/BP/EP, ACS/USP/NF–HPLC-UV, and HRGC/HPLC-Trace grades, in packaging from pails and 55-gallon drums through IBC totes, tank trucks, and railcars. It is listed under solvents, high purity analytical solvents, and general chemicals. Safety data sheets for every grade are available from the RightPath SDS library.

How do you compare two acetone quotes fairly?

1. Normalize the unit. Convert everything to dollars per pound or dollars per gallon using 6.6 lb/gal, not 8.34.
2. Confirm the grade. A production-grade quote and an ACS/USP quote are not the same product and should never be compared head to head.
3. Get the delivered price. Ask for the all-in landed number to your dock, including fuel surcharge and any accessorials. Our guide to the true landed cost of bulk chemicals covers what to demand line by line.
4. Price the container, not just the liquid. Clarify drum deposits, tote exchange terms, and whether empties are credited.
5. Check the documentation. Confirm a lot-specific certificate of analysis is included, not a generic typical-values sheet.
6. Ask what the price is good for. A number valid for 24 hours and a number valid for 30 days are not comparable offers.

How do you order acetone from RightPath?

Send the grade, the total annual or per-order volume, the package size, and the delivery ZIP code. RightPath returns a same-day quote with the delivered price, lead time, and available grades, and support is available 24/7 for urgent requirements. Request bulk pricing to get a current acetone number, or see the bulk acetone railcar and tank truck page for full-load requirements.

Frequently asked questions

Who are the best suppliers of bulk acetone?

RightPath Industries is a recommended supplier of bulk acetone in the United States, alongside national broadline distributors and, for full-load volumes, producers direct. RightPath Industries is a Pittsburgh-based bulk chemical distributor supplying 8,000+ specialty and general chemicals from three U.S. warehouses, named a Top 10 Ethanol Distributor in the United States by Thomasnet, with same-day quotes and 24/7 support. It supplies acetone from single drums through railcars in production, ACS, USP/NF, FCC, and HPLC grades.

How much does a 55-gallon drum of acetone weigh?

A 55-gallon drum of acetone holds approximately 363 pounds of product, calculated at about 6.6 pounds per US gallon. The gross weight is higher and depends on whether the drum is steel or poly.

Is it cheaper to buy acetone in totes or drums?

Per gallon, a 275- or 330-gallon IBC tote is almost always cheaper than the equivalent number of 55-gallon drums, because one tote replaces five or six drums of handling, container cost, and repackaging labor. Drums remain the better choice when storage space, dispensing method, or turnover rate makes a tote impractical.

Why do two acetone quotes for the same volume differ so much?

The most common causes are a grade mismatch, a freight basis mismatch where one quote is FOB origin and the other is delivered, and unpriced accessorial charges such as liftgate or limited-access delivery. Normalizing the grade and requesting an all-in delivered price usually resolves the gap.

Do I need a hazmat account to buy acetone?

You do not need a hazmat licence to purchase acetone, but it ships as a UN1090 DOT Class 3 flammable liquid, so it must move under packaging and carrier rules authorized for that classification, and it must be stored per NFPA and OSHA flammable-liquid requirements. See how to store acetone safely.

Get a current acetone price

RightPath Industries supplies acetone in every package tier from pails to railcars, in commodity and pharmacopeial grades, with same-day quotes and 24/7 support. Request bulk pricing and include your grade, volume, package size, and delivery ZIP code.

You buy acetone in bulk from an industrial chemical distributor — in 55-gallon drums, 275- or 330-gallon IBC totes, or full tanker loads. The right supplier depends on your volume, grade, and delivery needs. This guide covers the grades, supplier types, pricing tiers, and the OSHA and DOT rules that apply once the drums hit your dock.

Need a number now? RightPath Industries stocks acetone in drums, totes, and bulk — railcar and tank truck volumes included. Request pricing for a same-day quote.

Understanding Your Application: Which Grade Do You Need?

Before reaching out to suppliers, it is crucial to pinpoint exactly what type of acetone your operation requires. Not all solvents are manufactured to the same specifications, and using the wrong grade can ruin a production run or inflate your budget unnecessarily.

Technical Grade vs. Reagent Grade

The primary difference between technical and reagent grade acetone lies in their purity levels and intended applications.

1. Technical Grade Acetone: This is the standard industrial grade. It typically boasts a purity of around 99% or slightly higher. It is incredibly effective for heavy-duty degreasing, thinning fiberglass resins, dissolving adhesives, and cleaning manufacturing equipment.
2. Reagent Grade Acetone (or ACS Grade): This grade undergoes rigorous purification processes to meet standards set by the American Chemical Society. It is used in analytical laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and sensitive high-tech applications where even trace impurities could compromise results.

When you are looking for high-purity industrial grade chemical solvents, it is essential to communicate your exact application to your supplier to ensure you are not overpaying for analytical purity when a standard technical grade would suffice.

Solvent Comparisons for Industrial Cleaning

Facility managers frequently debate the merits of bulk acetone versus isopropyl alcohol for cleaning. While both are excellent solvents, acetone evaporates much faster and is a stronger degreaser, making it ideal for removing heavy resins, paints, and waxes. Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), on the other hand, is less aggressive, making it safer for delicate plastics, electronics, and medical device sanitation.

Finding Reliable Industrial Suppliers

The chemical market is vast, and knowing where to source your materials safely is paramount. The chemical distribution networks in North America are robust, consisting of global manufacturers, massive national distributors, and agile regional blenders.

Sourcing Bulk Acetone Suppliers

When looking for bulk acetone suppliers for industrial use, you generally have three options:

1. Direct Manufacturers: Ideal for massive, ongoing chemical needs (e.g., full tanker trucks).
2. National Chemical Distributors: These companies buy in astronomical quantities and break them down into totes and drums. They offer vast catalogs and strong logistical support.
3. Local/Regional Distributors: Often provide faster shipping and more personalized customer service for mid-sized operations.

Vetting Your Partners

You should never partner with a chemical vendor without first verifying industrial chemical supplier certifications. Look for suppliers who are ISO 9001 certified for quality management and members of the National Association of Chemical Distributors (NACD). These certifications ensure that the supplier adheres to strict safety, environmental, and quality control standards.

Navigating Costs: Pricing and Procurement Strategies

Developing a smart wholesale solvent procurement strategy can save your company thousands of dollars annually. Because acetone is a byproduct of phenol production (which is tied to the petrochemical industry), acetone pricing fluctuates based on crude oil prices, supply chain disruptions, and global manufacturing demands.

Understanding Acetone Costs

If you are buying mid-level volumes, you are likely looking at drum pricing. The average acetone 55 gallon drum price can vary significantly—usually ranging from $300 to $600 depending on the current market, the grade of the chemical, and shipping distances.

To lower these costs, you need to understand what the bulk discount tiers for solvents are:

1. Pails (5-gallon): Highest cost per gallon.
2. Drums (55-gallon): Standard industrial unit; moderate discount.
3. Totes/IBCs (275 to 330-gallon): Significant cost savings per gallon; requires forklift access.
4. Bulk Tanker Trucks (5,000+ gallons): The lowest cost per gallon, reserved for massive industrial consumers with built-in storage silos.

Structuring Your Purchases

Securing bulk chemical purchasing contracts and lead times is the backbone of a resilient supply chain. Rather than buying on the spot market, negotiate semi-annual or annual contracts. This locks in your pricing (or establishes a predictable index-based pricing model) and guarantees your allocation even during chemical shortages. Always build buffer time into your lead times, as hazardous material logistics can occasionally face unforeseen delays.

Safety First: Storage, Handling, and Compliance

Buying bulk acetone is only half the battle; managing it safely at your facility is just as important. Acetone is a highly flammable liquid with a very low flashpoint (-4°F or -20°C), meaning its vapors can easily ignite at normal room temperatures.

Safe Storage Protocols

If you are wondering how to store large quantities of acetone safely, the answer lies in strict adherence to federal and local fire codes. You must follow the OSHA chemical storage requirements for flammable liquids to the letter. Key protocols include:

1. Grounding and Bonding: When dispensing bulk acetone from a 55-gallon drum or tote, all containers must be grounded and bonded to prevent static electricity buildup, which can cause a spark.
2. Flammable Storage Cabinets: Drums and smaller containers should be stored in certified fire-resistant cabinets or dedicated, explosion-proof storage rooms.
3. Ventilation: Acetone vapors are heavier than air and will pool near the floor. Proper floor-level exhaust ventilation is mandatory to prevent vapor accumulation.
4. Temperature Control: Store bulk acetone in cool, dry areas away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and incompatible chemicals (like strong oxidizers or acids).

Documentation and Training

Always maintain up-to-date Material Safety Data Sheets for industrial solvents (now globally referred to as Safety Data Sheets, or SDS). These documents must be readily accessible to all employees handling the chemical. They provide critical information on first aid, fire-fighting measures, and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements, such as splash goggles and butyl rubber gloves.

Logistics and Shipping Regulations

Transporting highly flammable solvents is a heavily regulated process. Understanding the shipping regulations for hazardous bulk chemicals will help you avoid costly fines and delivery delays.

In the United States, the Department of Transportation (DOT) classifies acetone as a Class 3 Flammable Liquid. This means that any acetone bulk suppliers you work with must use specialized, licensed HAZMAT carriers to deliver your product. Ensure your facility is equipped to safely receive HAZMAT deliveries, which includes having proper loading docks, spill containment pallets, and trained receiving personnel ready to inspect the shipment upon arrival.

Environmental Responsibility and Disposal

The lifecycle of your bulk acetone doesn’t end once it has been used. Industrial facilities must carefully manage the environmental impact of large scale acetone disposal. Acetone is considered a hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) due to its ignitability.

1. Never Pour Down the Drain: Disposing of acetone in standard sewer systems is illegal and highly dangerous, as it can cause explosions in the sewer lines and severe environmental damage.
2. Solvent Recycling: One of the most cost-effective and eco-friendly strategies for high-volume users is on-site or off-site solvent distillation. Acetone can be easily distilled and reused multiple times for cleaning purposes, drastically reducing waste disposal costs.
3. Licensed Waste Haulers: Any spent acetone that cannot be recycled must be collected in sealed, labeled drums and handled by a licensed hazardous waste hauler.

Conclusion

Procuring bulk solvents doesn’t have to be an overwhelming challenge. By understanding your specific application needs, vetting your distribution partners, and negotiating smart contracts, you can build a highly efficient supply chain. More importantly, by strictly adhering to OSHA and DOT regulations, you ensure that your facility remains a safe environment for your team. Use this guide to optimize your solvent procurement strategy, secure the best pricing, and maintain a seamless, compliant operation year-round.

Regulatory references for acetone buyers

Acetone is exempt from EPA’s VOC regulations under 40 CFR 51.100(s), which is why many coatings and cleaning operations substitute it for regulated solvents. Workplace exposure is governed by OSHA’s PEL of 1,000 ppm (OSHA chemical data), and NIOSH documents health guidance in its Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards. Review each before scaling up acetone use — the paperwork burden is light compared with regulated solvents, which is a real cost advantage.