That's a great question, and one that's important whether you're planning a purchase for home use, a commercial property, or a community space. The weight of a standard, heavy-duty outdoor trash bin isn't a single number, as it depends heavily on the material, size (capacity), and whether it's empty or full.
Typically, an empty heavy-duty outdoor bin can range from about 15 to over 50 pounds (7 to 23 kg). Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
* Plastic Bins (Residential/Commercial): A standard 96-gallon wheeled cart, common for residential curbside pickup, usually weighs between 40-50 lbs (18-23 kg) when empty. Smaller 35- or 64-gallon bins are lighter, often 15-30 lbs (7-14 kg).
* Metal Bins (Heavy Commercial/Industrial): Galvanized steel or stainless-steel bins are much heavier. A common 44-gallon (200-liter) galvanized steel drum can weigh 25-35 lbs (11-16 kg) empty. Larger commercial containers, like a 2-cubic-yard metal dumpster, can weigh 300 lbs (136 kg) or more empty.
The full weight is what really matters for handling and disposal. A standard 96-gallon bin filled with general municipal waste can easily weigh 150-250 lbs (68-113 kg). Compacted commercial waste or heavy materials like construction debris can increase this significantly.
Key factors affecting weight:
1. Material: Plastic is lighter; metal is heavier but more durable.
2. Capacity: Measured in gallons or liters, this is the biggest determinant.
3. Construction: Thicker walls, reinforced wheels, and metal axles add weight but increase longevity.
4. Contents: The type of waste (light yard debris vs. dense paper/wet waste) drastically changes the full weight.
When choosing a bin, consider both the empty weight (for maneuvering when clean) and the potential full weight to ensure your collection service can handle it and that the bin's wheels and structure are rated appropriately. Always check the manufacturer's specifications for the exact weight of the model you're considering.