Guide to Bin Sizes (240L to 4.5m³ + Cages)
Choosing the right bin size for your business helps keep costs low, waste streams clean, and collections efficient. Waster offers a wide range of bins — from 240L wheelie bins to 4.5m³ front lift bins, plus specialised bin cages. This guide explains the available sizes, typical uses, and which businesses they best suit.
✅ Rear Lift Bin Sizes (240L – 1,100L)
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240L (standard wheelie bin)
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Equivalent to a household red/yellow bin
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Great for small offices, cafés, and low-volume sites
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Holds about 2–3 bags of rubbish
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660L
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Medium-sized rear lift bin on wheels
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Suitable for growing businesses or small hospitality venues
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Holds about 8–10 bags of rubbish
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1,100L
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Largest rear lift bin on wheels
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Best for small to mid-size businesses producing moderate waste
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Holds about 15–18 bags of rubbish
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✅ Front Lift Bin Sizes (1.5m³ – 4.5m³)
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1.5m³
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Compact front lift bin for moderate waste
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Good fit for retail stores, schools, and small warehouses
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Equivalent to about 6–7 wheelie bins
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3.0m³
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Medium-sized steel bin
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Works well for larger offices, shopping centres, and medium warehouses
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Equivalent to about 12–13 wheelie bins
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4.5m³
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Largest front lift bin available
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Best for large warehouses, logistics centres, and high-volume waste producers
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Equivalent to about 18–20 wheelie bins
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✅ Bin Cages
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Designed for cardboard or lightweight recyclables
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Prevent bins from overflowing and help keep sites tidy
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Can be paired with front lift bins for bulky packaging
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Ideal for retail, warehouses, and distribution centres
❌ What to Consider Before Choosing
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Site access – rear lift bins are smaller and easier to manoeuvre, while front lift bins require truck clearance.
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Waste type – cardboard and commingled need clean, dedicated bins; general waste is heavier and needs larger capacity.
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Collection frequency – higher volumes may justify a larger bin with fewer collections.
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Available space – ensure bins fit into your waste area without blocking access.
Quick Reference
Bin Size | Type | Best For | Bag/Volume Equivalent |
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240L | Rear lift | Small cafés/offices | 2–3 bags |
660L | Rear lift | Hospitality, small sites | 8–10 bags |
1,100L | Rear lift | Mid-size businesses | 15–18 bags |
1.5m³ | Front lift | Retail, schools | ~6–7 wheelie bins |
3.0m³ | Front lift | Shopping centres, offices | ~12–13 wheelie bins |
4.5m³ | Front lift | Warehouses, logistics | ~18–20 wheelie bins |
Cage | Specialised | Cardboard/light recyclables | Bulk, bulky packaging |
Best Practices Summary
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Match your bin size to your waste volume and type.
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Use larger bins if you want fewer pickups, or smaller bins with more frequent service if space is limited.
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Keep cardboard and recyclables in cages or dedicated bins to avoid contamination.
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Ask Waster for advice on the most cost-effective bin setup for your business.
Conclusion: Find the Perfect Bin Size
From 240L wheelie bins to 4.5m³ front lift bins and cages for bulky recyclables, Waster has the right bin size for every business. Choosing the right bin means better efficiency, lower costs, and a cleaner waste management system.
👉 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