That's an excellent question! The weight of an empty steel outdoor trash bin can be quite surprising if you've never had to move one. It's not a one-size-fits-all answer, as the weight depends heavily on the bin's size, construction, and intended use.
For a typical residential-sized steel trash can, say around 30-40 gallons, you can expect an empty weight in the range of 15 to 30 pounds (7 to 14 kg). These are the bins you might have in your own backyard, designed to be sturdy enough to withstand the elements and occasional knocks, but not so heavy that they are impossible to move for trash collection.
When we look at larger, commercial-grade bins—the kind you see outside restaurants, apartment complexes, or in public parks—the weight increases significantly. A standard 1-cubic-yard steel dumpster, a common sight in commercial settings, can easily weigh between 150 and 250 pounds (68 to 113 kg) when empty. Why so heavy? It comes down to the thick, heavy-gauge steel used in their construction to resist denting, withstand constant use, and prevent theft or tipping. Features like reinforced edges, heavy-duty lids, and robust mounting points for wheels all add to the overall mass.
So, while a simple domestic bin is manageable for one person, moving an empty commercial steel bin absolutely requires specialized equipment or a team of people. The substantial empty weight is a direct reflection of its durability and long-term service life.