Skip to content
  • There are no suggestions because the search field is empty.

6 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Waste Supplier

Choosing the right waste supplier can save your business money, time, and headaches. But many businesses make common mistakes that lead to higher costs, poor service, or compliance issues. Here are six mistakes to avoid when selecting your waste management partner.

✅ Mistake 1: Not Checking for Hidden Fees

  • Some suppliers charge bin rental fees, padlock fees, removal charges, or admin costs that aren’t made clear upfront.

  • Always ask for all-inclusive pricing with no hidden extras.

  • Waster’s pricing is transparent and upfront in our online shop.

✅ Mistake 2: Locking Into Long-Term Contracts

  • Many suppliers push businesses into 3–5 year contracts with expensive exit fees.

  • This limits flexibility if your waste needs change.

  • Waster offers flexible, no lock-in contracts so you only pay for what you need.

✅ Mistake 3: Ignoring Recycling Options

  • Relying only on general waste bins is costly, as landfill disposal fees are high.

  • Suppliers who don’t promote recycling may cost you more in the long run.

  • Waster provides cardboard, commingled, organics, and specialty recycling services alongside general waste.

✅ Mistake 4: Not Considering Bin Sizes and Access

  • Ordering the wrong bin size leads to overflow problems or excess weight charges.

  • Ensure your supplier offers a full range — rear lift, front lift, skips, and specialty bins.

  • Waster helps businesses choose the right bin size and service frequency upfront.

✅ Mistake 5: Overlooking Compliance and Licenses

  • Using an unlicensed provider risks fines and legal issues if waste isn’t disposed of correctly.

  • Always confirm your supplier is licensed for your waste types (especially sharps, grease traps, and sanitary bins).

  • Waster partners only with licensed, compliant service providers across Australia.

✅ Mistake 6: Poor Customer Support

  • Waste issues like missed collections, broken bins, or billing problems need quick solutions.

  • Some suppliers make it hard to get answers.

  • Waster provides responsive customer support to resolve issues fast.

Household Context

Households usually don’t choose their waste supplier — services are provided by local councils. These tips apply to businesses that need to arrange their own waste and recycling services.

Quick Reference

Mistake Better Approach
Accepting hidden fees Demand transparent pricing
Locking into long contracts Choose no lock-in terms
Ignoring recycling Add cardboard, commingled, organics
Wrong bin sizes Match bins to site space & volumes
Unlicensed providers Use licensed suppliers only
Poor customer support Choose providers with fast service

Best Practices Summary

  1. Ask for clear, transparent pricing — avoid hidden fees.

  2. Choose flexible contracts to match changing business needs.

  3. Maximise recycling to lower costs and boost sustainability.

  4. Get the right bin sizes and access arrangements.

  5. Confirm your supplier is licensed and compliant.

  6. Prioritise good customer support.

Conclusion: Choose Smarter, Save More

The right waste supplier can make your business more efficient and cost-effective, but the wrong choice can be expensive and frustrating. By avoiding these six mistakes, you’ll get transparent pricing, reliable service, and recycling options that save money.

👉 Check out Waster’s General Waste bin options today in our online shop.

Download Now: Free PDF Business Owners Guide To General Waste Bin Services