That's a great and practical question! For most typical public or residential urban trash cans, the amount of assembly required is generally minimal to moderate. It's rarely a complex project.
Most commonly, you'll receive the bin in a large box with the main body as one piece. The assembly typically involves attaching the base or stabilizing feet (if separate), securing the inner bucket or liner holder, and attaching the lid. The lid is often the main part, which might need to be hinged to the body with provided pins or screws. For wheeled models, you'll need to attach the axle and wheels.
You'll usually only need basic tools like a screwdriver or an Allen wrench, which are often included. The whole process typically takes between 10 to 30 minutes for one person. The key is to follow the provided instructions carefully to ensure the lid swings smoothly and the structure is stable. So, while you'll need to do some light DIY, it's usually a quick and straightforward task before your new bin is ready for service.