Turning Garbage Into Fuel and Other Fun Ideas

5 Important Things You Need To Ask Before Hiring A Bin

2 July 2015 by Encarnacion Guerrero

Whether you're renovating, building a swimming pool or just getting rid of trash around your house, knowing how to use skip bins is essential. Knowing the right use and guidelines for using your hired bin will ensure you carry out your removal swiftly and without any undue inconvenience. Below, find some of the most important things you need to ask before hiring a bin.

What materials aren't allowed inside?

Although bins allow for very liberal removals, they too draw a line somewhere. Though every bin hire company has its own regulations, you will find that most do not allow loading of dangerous, harmful or hard to dispose materials such as asbestos, lead, car tyres, paint, fuel or related products. To avoid last-minute inconveniences, ask what should and shouldn't find its way into the bin beforehand.

Is mixed waste allowed?

Apart from finding out what contents are allowed into the bin, also ask your bin hire company if mixed removals are allowed. This refers to unsorted waste that has been derived from different sources and cannot be disposed of to one location. Mixed waste is waste comprising of two or more of: yard waste, construction waste, furniture or electronics. Since mixed waste requires sorting before disposal, some companies discourage it. Others will charge more for mixed waste.

What is the maximum fill level on the bin?

Another thing you may not know about bins is that they have to be filled up to a certain level. Most bins will have a ridge or a painted level that shows the maximum load point. You should not fill the bin past this point. This is a regulation that seeks to avoid waste spillover when loading, unloading or in transit. Knowing the fill level on a bin will help you choose the right size for your needs. Don't just assume you can fill them to the brim.

What are the actual bin dimensions?

When ordering a bin, find out its actual dimensions i.e. length, width and height. Knowing the volume of the bin isn't enough. Two different bins may have the same volume, e.g. 6m³, but different dimensions. By finding out the exact bin dimensions, you will be better placed to find the ideal location for your bin. If a bin is wider or taller than you thought, it might end up not fitting where you expected. Bin dimension also lets you understand how well your trash will fit in, especially tall items.

Do you need a council permit if the bin is to be placed outside?

Lastly, find out if you need a council permit to keep the bin on your planned spot. Council permits are often required if the bin will be placed outside, especially if it's on the road or footpath. You may be fined for placing a bin outside without a permit. In some cases, a permit may be denied altogether.

Planning to hire a bin? Ask your hire company about the above issues and keep your removal swift and unhindered.

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