## Common ground
All options refer to metal drums used for storing or transporting tar or oil.
## Options at a glance
**7310.2X – made of iron or steel**
- **Defining trait:** Constructed from ferrous metal, typically carbon steel, offering high durability and resistance to pressure.
- **Typical examples:** Standard 208-liter industrial drums for crude oil, asphalt, or fuel transport.
- **Best fit when:** The drum is heavy-duty, used in industrial or logistics settings requiring robustness.
**7612.90 – made of aluminium**
- **Defining trait:** Made from lightweight, corrosion-resistant aluminium, ideal for applications where weight matters.
- **Typical examples:** Portable drums for chemicals, food-grade oils, or aerospace-related transport.
- **Best fit when:** The product needs to be light, resistant to rust, or used in environments where corrosion is a concern.
## Key differences
| Feature | 7310.2X (iron/steel) | 7612.90 (aluminium) |
|------------------|------------------------|-----------------------|
| Material density | High | Low |
| Corrosion resistance | Moderate (requires coating) | High |
| Typical use | Heavy industrial | Light, sensitive, or mobile use |
## How to choose
- Is the drum primarily used for heavy-duty industrial transport? → 7310.2X
- Does it need to be lightweight or resistant to rust in harsh environments? → 7612.90
## Overlaps & pitfalls
A drum may be made of aluminium but still be used in industrial settings, so material alone isn’t always decisive. The main function (e.g., transporting crude oil vs. food-grade oil) should guide the choice. If unclear, prioritize based on the product’s primary use or environmental exposure