That's an excellent and practical question! The weight of a typical commercial-grade outdoor trash can isn't a single number, as it varies dramatically based on size, material, and design. However, I can give you a clear breakdown from my experience.
For a standard, common-sized can like a 55-gallon (208-liter) model made of galvanized steel or heavy-duty plastic, the empty weight usually falls between 30 to 60 pounds (14 to 27 kg). The steel ones are on the heavier end of that range. These are the barrels you often see in parks or behind restaurants.
Larger wheeled dumpsters, like the 2-4 cubic yard front-load models common at shopping centers, are a different story. Empty, these heavy-gauge steel containers can easily weigh 250 to 400 pounds (113 to 181 kg) or more. Their weight is due to the thick metal, reinforcing braces, and heavy-duty axles and wheels designed for constant lifting by garbage trucks.
The material is the biggest factor:
* Plastic (Polyethylene): Lighter, corrosion-resistant. A 50-gallon commercial plastic bin may weigh ~25-40 lbs.
* Galvanized Steel: Much heavier, extremely durable. A similar-sized steel can weighs 45-65 lbs.
* Stainless Steel: Durable and aesthetic, with a weight similar to galvanized steel.
Other factors are size (from 20-gallon to 6+ cubic yard dumpsters) and features like wheels, lids, and reinforcement. Remember, this is just the *tare weight*. When full, especially with wet waste, the total weight can triple or more. This is why commercial cans are built so tough—they need to handle both the elements and heavy loads. Always check the manufacturer's spec sheet for the exact weight of a specific model you're considering.