That's an excellent question! The weight of an empty outdoor trash bin can vary quite a bit depending on its size, material, and intended use. For a standard residential 35-gallon plastic trash can that you might use at home, you're typically looking at a weight of about 15 to 25 pounds when it's completely empty. These are designed to be light enough for most people to move around for collection day.
If you're considering a larger, heavy-duty model, like a 95-gallon wheeled cart provided by many municipal waste services, the empty weight increases to approximately 45 to 65 pounds. These are made from thicker, more durable plastic to withstand regular use and the elements.
For commercial applications, the empty weights become significantly higher. A standard 2-cubic yard metal dumpster, commonly seen behind restaurants and businesses, can weigh between 300 and 500 pounds empty, due to its thick steel construction.
The material is the biggest factor. Plastic bins are naturally lighter, while those made from galvanized steel or other metals are much heavier but offer greater security and durability. So, when choosing a bin, considering its empty weight is a practical first step to ensure you can manage it.