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

Excess Bin Weights and Related Charges

Bin services are priced with fair-use weight limits based on the type of waste stream. If bins exceed these weight allowances, excess weight charges may apply. These charges cover the higher costs of transporting and disposing of heavy loads. Here’s what you need to know about excess bin weights and how to avoid them.

✅ What Are Excess Bin Weights?

  • Fair-use limits – each bin service includes an allowance (e.g. kilograms per cubic metre) suited to that waste type.

  • When limits are exceeded – if a bin is significantly heavier than expected for its category, additional charges apply.

  • Measured at collection – trucks weigh bins during pickup, recording whether excess charges apply.

✅ Typical Weight Allowances (Examples)

  • General waste (rear lift bins) – ~60–80 kg per m³

  • General waste (front lift bins) – ~100–120 kg per m³

  • Recycling (cardboard/commingled) – much lower weights expected, as these are “light” streams

  • Heavy waste (construction or skip bins) – higher allowances, but charges apply for overfilling or dense materials

(Exact allowances vary by region and service type—check your agreement for details.)

❌ Common Causes of Excess Weights

  • Liquids – bins are not designed for liquid waste; even small amounts add significant weight.

  • Soil, bricks, or rubble – construction materials should go in skip bins, not general or recycling bins.

  • Wet waste – rain-soaked cardboard or food waste can double bin weight.

  • Overfilling – cramming more than the bin’s designed volume increases density.

Why Excess Weight Charges Exist

  • Safety – overloaded bins are unsafe for collection crews and equipment.

  • Transport costs – heavier loads increase fuel use and vehicle wear.

  • Disposal fees – landfill and processing costs are based on weight.

  • Fairness – ensures all customers pay their share for heavier-than-expected loads.

Household Context

Household bins generally aren’t individually weighed—council trucks collect them as part of household rates. Excess weight charges apply to commercial waste services only.

Business Tips

  • Keep liquids out – never pour oils, soups, or liquids into bins.

  • Use the right bin type – construction and heavy waste require skip bins, not front/rear lift bins.

  • Store bins under cover – prevents rainwater soaking recyclables like cardboard.

  • Flatten cardboard – reduces volume without adding weight.

  • Monitor staff use – train teams on what can and can’t go into bins.

Quick Reference

Can Cause Excess Weights How to Avoid
Liquids in bins Never place liquids in bins
Bricks, soil, rubble Use skip bins for heavy waste
Wet cardboard or food Keep bins under cover
Overfilling bins Order the right size/service frequency

Best Practices Summary

  1. Understand your bin’s weight allowance.

  2. Never place liquids, rubble, or heavy waste in standard bins.

  3. Protect recyclables from rain to avoid soaked loads.

  4. Use Waster’s skip or heavy waste services for dense materials.

Conclusion: Avoiding Excess Bin Weight Charges

Excess bin weights lead to additional charges because of higher disposal, safety, and transport costs. By keeping liquids and heavy waste out of standard bins, and using the right service for each waste stream, your business can stay compliant and avoid unnecessary costs.

👉 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