That's a great and practical question! For a small business like a cafe, retail shop, or small office, the standard outdoor trash bin size typically ranges from 20 to 95 gallons. The perfect size for you isn't a one-size-fits-all answer; it depends on a few key factors.
First, consider your waste volume. How many bags do you fill daily? A 32-gallon can holds about 2-3 standard bags, perfect for very low traffic. A 64-gallon bin is a very common choice, handling 4-6 bags and suited for many shops and eateries. For businesses generating more waste, a 95-gallon wheeled cart is often the standard.
Next, think about pickup frequency. If waste collection is twice a week, you can opt for a smaller bin. If it's only once a week, you'll need a larger capacity to avoid overflow.
Also, mind the type of waste. General office trash is lightweight, but a restaurant with food waste might need a sturdy, leak-proof bin and possibly a larger size.
Finally, check local regulations and your hauler's requirements. Some municipalities provide or mandate specific bins.
As a general rule, I'd recommend starting with a 64-gallon bin for most small businesses. It's a versatile middle ground—not too small to overflow quickly, and not too large to become cumbersome or encourage inefficient waste sorting. You can always adjust later based on your actual usage. The goal is to keep your premises clean without paying for unused capacity.