That's an excellent and practical question. The short answer is yes, many modern urban trash and recycling bins are specifically designed to be stackable for exactly that purpose—more efficient storage and shipping. It's a common feature, but with some important considerations.
Think about the logistics. Delivering hundreds of identical bins to a city district is far more efficient if they nest neatly inside each other or stack securely. This drastically reduces the volume they occupy in a truck, cutting down on shipping costs, fuel use, and the number of trips required. The same principle applies to storage at municipal yards before deployment or during off-seasons.
The key lies in the design. Bins made from durable, molded plastic often feature tapered shapes or integrated stacking lugs. This allows them to nest when empty, creating a compact column. However, true "stacking" for storage with bins in their usable upright position usually requires them to be empty. A full bin is too heavy and unstable to stack safely.
There are clear benefits beyond logistics. Stackable, modular bins allow for flexible deployment. Cities can easily increase capacity in high-traffic areas for events or temporarily relocate bins for street cleaning. The standardized design also simplifies maintenance and replacement.
So, while you wouldn't see stacked bins full of waste on a city sidewalk, the stackability feature is a crucial behind-the-scenes element. It makes the entire system of supplying, storing, and managing urban waste containers significantly more efficient, cost-effective, and adaptable. The design prioritizes empty efficiency for transport, leading to overall operational savings and a more responsive public waste system.