That's a practical question many people don't think about until they need to move or empty one! The weight of an empty urban trash can really depends on several factors including its material, size, and design.
Standard public litter bins you see on sidewalks typically weigh between 15-40 pounds (7-18 kg) when empty. These are usually made from durable materials like coated steel, galvanized metal, or heavy-duty plastic. The smaller ones designed for pedestrian areas tend to be lighter, while larger commercial bins can be substantially heavier.
Commercial trash containers used behind restaurants or businesses can range from 50-150 pounds (23-68 kg) empty, especially the larger wheeled models. The material makes a big difference too - plastic bins are generally lighter than their metal counterparts of the same size.
If you're considering moving or replacing a trash can, it's always best to check the manufacturer's specifications for the exact weight. The empty weight matters for installation, maintenance, and determining how many people might be needed to handle the container safely.