That's a great and very practical question! Choosing the right size bin for your curb is more important than it seems. A bin that's too small leads to overflow and mess, while one that's too large wastes space and may cost more in service fees.
For a typical small apartment building (say, 4 to 12 units), a 32-gallon to 96-gallon wheeled cart per 4-6 units is a common starting point. However, the "perfect" size depends on several key factors:
1. Number of Residents: More people = more waste. Estimate about 4.5 pounds of trash per person per day.
2. Pickup Frequency: If collection is only once a week, you'll need a larger capacity (like 64-96 gallons) to hold all the waste. Twice-a-week service allows for smaller bins.
3. Local Regulations & Hauler: Always check first! Your waste management company often provides specific carts and has rules on size and number. Some municipalities mandate bin types.
4. Recycling: If you have separate recycling pickup, your general trash volume will be smaller. Factor in a dedicated recycling bin.
5. Bin Practicality: A 96-gallon cart is standard for many haulers and is manageable when wheeled. For larger needs, multiple bins are better than one oversized container.
My practical advice? Contact your current waste collection service. They are the best resource for local rules and can often recommend the most cost-effective size based on your building's occupancy and their truck compatibility. Starting with a 64 or 96-gallon cart for every 4-6 units is a safe bet for weekly pickup. Monitor it for the first few weeks—if it's consistently overfull, you need a larger size or more frequent service.