Refuse Truck Compatibility

How to Match Waste Containers with Refuse Collection Trucks

A waste container may have the correct capacity and material but still fail in operation if it is incompatible with the collection vehicle.

Before production, buyers should confirm the exact lifting and loading system used by the refuse truck.

Common Collection Systems

Possible systems include:

• Comb lifting
• Trunnion lifting
• Wide trunnion lifting
• Side lifting
• Front loading
• Rear loading
• Hook-lift collection
• Crane lifting
• Forklift handling

Each system requires specific interface dimensions and structural reinforcement.

Comb Lifting

Comb lifting is widely used for smaller two-wheel bins and selected four-wheel containers.

The lifting edge must match the truck mechanism. The container body also needs sufficient strength to withstand repeated emptying cycles.

BS EN 840-1:2020 covers defined two-wheel containers up to 400 litres for comb lifting, while other parts cover specific four-wheel configurations and lifting devices.

Trunnion Lifting

Trunnion systems use side-mounted lifting points.

Important parameters include:

• Trunnion diameter
• Distance between lifting points
• Installation height
• Container width
• Reinforcement structure
• Loading angle

Front and Rear Loading

Large commercial containers may be designed for front-loader or rear-loader trucks.

The buyer should provide:

• Truck model
• Lifting drawing
• Maximum container dimensions
• Maximum operating weight
• Required loading pockets
• Lid opening direction
• Emptying clearance

Lid Compatibility

The lid must open correctly during collection.

Potential problems include:

• Lid contacting the vehicle
• Insufficient opening angle
• Pedal mechanism interference
• Plastic lid deformation
• Lock remaining engaged
• Split lids opening in the wrong direction

Container Weight

The total operating weight includes:

• Empty container weight
• Waste weight
• Lid and accessories
• Water or residue
• Lifting components

The truck and container must both be suitable for the expected gross load.

What to Send the Manufacturer

For accurate design, provide:

Destination-market standard

Collection vehicle brand and model

Photographs of the lifting device

Interface measurements

Existing container drawing

Required capacity

Maximum waste load

Tender specification