That's an excellent and very practical question. From my observations and discussions with sanitation workers, the answer is a definitive yes, modern urban trash cans are specifically designed to be emptied quickly and easily by collection crews, but with some important nuances.
Gone are the days of solely relying on heavy, unwieldy metal bins. Today's standard issue for many cities—like the common 2-wheeled, lidded plastic or metal carts—are a game-changer. Their standardized shape allows mechanical arms on garbage trucks to latch, lift, and empty them in seconds without the crew leaving the cab. This design drastically speeds up routes and reduces physical strain.
Even for bins that require manual handling, ergonomic improvements are key. Lightweight materials, well-placed handles, and smooth-rolling wheels make the process faster and safer. The goal is to minimize lifting, dragging, and awkward motions that slow crews down.
However, "easy and quick" can depend on a few factors. Overfilled bins or contamination with improper waste (like heavy construction debris) can create delays. Proper placement by residents—wheels against the curb, lids closed, and ample space around the bin—is also crucial for the truck's mechanical arm to operate efficiently.
So, while design has evolved tremendously for efficiency, optimal speed also relies on correct public use and integrated collection systems. The focus is squarely on saving time and protecting worker health, making the daily grind of keeping our cities clean much more efficient.