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What Time of Day Are Bins Collected?

Bin collection times vary depending on location, bin type, and access conditions. While Waster works to align services with client needs, most collections occur at night to ensure efficiency and safety. Here’s what you need to know about when your bins will be emptied.

✅ Typical Collection Times

  • Night collections (most common) – trucks generally operate overnight to avoid traffic and pedestrians, making collections safer and more efficient.

  • After 7:00 am in residential areas – where homes are nearby, council curfews restrict noise and heavy vehicle movements before 7:00 am.

  • Daytime pickups – in some commercial areas, collections may occur during normal business hours if access or restrictions require it.

✅ Best Practice for Bin Preparation

  • Always put bins out the night before your scheduled collection day.

    • Example: if pickup is on Thursday, place bins out Wednesday evening.

  • This ensures bins are ready regardless of when the truck arrives (night, early morning, or daytime).

  • Keep bins in their designated collection point with clear access for drivers.

✅ Factors That Affect Collection Timing

  • Location – CBD, metro, and regional areas follow different route patterns.

  • Bin type – rear lift, front lift, and skip bins are often scheduled at different times.

  • Access restrictions – laneways, basements, or gated sites may affect when a truck can service bins.

  • Council curfews – in residential areas, noise restrictions delay collections until after 7:00 am.

  • Service load – daily scheduling and traffic can shift collection times.

❌ Common Misunderstandings

  • “My bins will always be collected at the same time.” – service times can vary depending on route changes or access conditions.

  • “I can put my bins out in the morning.” – bins should always be out the night before to avoid missed collections.

  • “Trucks will always come back the same day.” – if a bin is missed, you’ll need to contact Waster to arrange a catch-up service.

Household Context

For households, council bins are typically serviced in the morning on a regular schedule. Waster’s commercial services run mostly at night, with adjustments made in residential areas due to curfews.

Quick Reference

Situation Collection Timing
Most services Overnight (night collections)
Near residential homes After 7:00 am due to curfews
CBD or high-traffic areas Night collections for efficiency
Special access sites May require daytime or restricted windows

Best Practices Summary

  1. Always place bins out the night before collection day.

  2. Keep access points clear and safe for trucks.

  3. Understand that service times may vary due to curfews or logistics.

  4. If your bin isn’t collected, contact Waster to arrange a catch-up service.

Conclusion: Be Ready the Night Before

Bin collection times are usually at night for safety and efficiency, but residential curfews mean some pickups happen after 7:00 am. The safest approach is to always place bins out the night before. If your bin is ever missed, simply contact Waster to book a catch-up.

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