Key Considerations When Choosing a Trash Company (Part 1)

Key Considerations When Choosing a Trash Company

Selecting the right waste removal provider for your business or property is a complex process with many factors to weigh. In this first installment of a 4-post series, we at Northwest Refuse Service have outlined some key considerations when evaluating potential trash companies.

Experiences with trash haulers run the gamut. Some businesses enjoy seamless, headache-free service for years. Their provider operates like clockwork, with no missed pickups or hiccups. For these customers, trash removal is “out of sight, out of mind”—the ultimate sign of a job well done. On the other end of the spectrum, however, some companies deal with fluctuating rates, missed pickups, overflowing dumpsters, and generally poor customer service. They may spend hours navigating phone trees to reach an offshore call center, only to be left still wondering when their trash will actually get picked up.

Clearly, not all haulers are created equal. So what should you look for in a provider? The ideal trash company offers reliable service at fair market prices. Pickups happen on schedule, without you having to think twice. Your dumpsters don’t overflow, rates don’t unexpectedly spike, and customer service resolves any issues promptly. When evaluating potential partners, consider:

• How much trash and recycling you generate. Are waste volumes steady or seasonal? Do you require compactors to fit it all in? Accurately estimating your needs will determine what size containers you require and the ideal pickup frequency.
• Frequency of desired pickups. Do you need daily pickup due to high volumes? Or is a couple times per week sufficient? Matching service frequency to your volumes avoids overflowing dumpsters.
• Environmental impact concerns. Do you want to partner with a “green” company that recycles and diverts waste from landfills? Locate providers aligned with your sustainability goals.
• Cost. What fits your budget? Get an accurate handle on your volumes, then collect bids with cost breakdowns. Compare line-by-line to find the best value.
• Dumpster sizes required. Standard dumpsters range from 2 to 8 cubic yards. Larger capacities mean fewer pickups needed, reducing cost. Consider your space and needs.
• Disposal costs for different waste types. Some haulers charge extra for materials like concrete, wood, or hazardous waste. Factor these add-ons into the total cost.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of our series, where we’ll explore the pros and cons of using a broker vs going direct-to-hauler.