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How Do I Get Another Trash Can from Waste Management?

Securing an additional trash can from Waste Management (WM) generally involves contacting their customer service and requesting one. Your eligibility will depend on factors like your service agreement, local ordinances, and the rationale for needing extra capacity.

Understanding Your Waste Management Needs

It might seem straightforward, but before diving into the process of acquiring an additional trash can from Waste Management, it’s essential to first understand why you need one and what your options are. A thoughtful approach will ensure you get the right solution and avoid unnecessary costs.

Assessing Your Current Waste Generation

The first step is to analyze your household’s current waste disposal habits. Consider the following:

Frequency of overflowing: How often does your current trash can overflow before your scheduled pick-up day? Is it a consistent problem or only during specific periods (e.g., holidays, large gatherings)?
Types of waste: Are you generating more general household waste, or is it primarily recyclables, yard waste, or bulky items? Addressing the source of the increased waste volume can help determine if an additional trash can is the best solution.
Seasonal variations: Does your waste volume increase significantly during certain seasons (e.g., during yard work in the fall or after holiday celebrations)? This might suggest a need for temporary solutions like extra bag stickers rather than a permanent additional can.

Exploring Alternative Solutions

Before committing to an additional trash can, explore alternative ways to manage your waste. Consider these options:

Enhanced Recycling: Ensure you’re maximizing your recycling efforts. Properly sorting recyclables can significantly reduce the volume of your general trash.
Composting: If you generate a lot of food scraps and yard waste, consider starting a compost pile. This is an environmentally friendly way to reduce your trash and create valuable fertilizer for your garden.
Downsizing Purchases: Be mindful of the packaging associated with your purchases. Opt for products with minimal packaging or those packaged in recyclable materials. Bulk buying can often reduce packaging waste.
Extra Bag Stickers/Tags: Waste Management often offers stickers or tags that allow you to place extra bags of trash alongside your regular can for collection. This can be a more cost-effective solution for occasional overflows.

Contacting Waste Management for an Additional Can

Once you’ve assessed your needs and explored alternatives, and you’ve determined that an additional trash can is necessary, here’s how to proceed:

Finding the Right Contact Information

The most direct way to request an additional can is to contact Waste Management directly. Start by identifying the correct contact information for your area.

WM Website: The Waste Management website (www.wm.com) has a “Find a Location” tool that allows you to enter your zip code and locate the customer service contact information for your specific region.
Billing Statement: Your Waste Management billing statement should also include a customer service phone number and potentially an email address.
Mobile App: Waste Management’s mobile app, if available in your area, may also provide customer service contact options.

Preparing for the Call/Contact

Before you contact Waste Management, gather the necessary information to expedite the process:

Account Number: Have your Waste Management account number readily available. This will allow the customer service representative to quickly access your account information.
Service Address: Confirm your service address to ensure the additional can is delivered to the correct location.
Reason for Request: Be prepared to explain why you need an additional trash can. Providing a clear and concise explanation will help the representative understand your situation and determine the best course of action.
Desired Can Size: If you have a preference for the size of the additional trash can, be sure to specify it.

Navigating the Request Process

When you contact Waste Management, be prepared for the following:

Verification: The customer service representative will likely verify your account information to ensure you are authorized to make changes to the service.
Eligibility Assessment: They will assess your eligibility for an additional trash can based on your service agreement, local ordinances, and the availability of cans in your area.
Pricing Information: Be sure to inquire about the cost of the additional can, including any recurring service fees. These fees can vary depending on your location and the size of the can.
Delivery Information: If your request is approved, ask about the delivery timeframe and how the can will be delivered.
Confirmation: Request a written confirmation of your request, including the details of the additional can, the associated fees, and the estimated delivery date. This will provide a record of your request in case of any discrepancies.

Understanding Additional Fees and Policies

Obtaining an additional trash can often comes with associated costs and policies. It’s crucial to be aware of these before proceeding.

Recurring Service Fees

Monthly/Quarterly Charge: Expect to pay an additional monthly or quarterly fee for the extra can. This fee covers the cost of collecting and disposing of the waste from the additional can.
Size-Based Pricing: The service fee may vary depending on the size of the additional can you request. Larger cans typically cost more.

Local Ordinances and Restrictions

Can Limits: Some municipalities have ordinances that limit the number of trash cans allowed per household. Be sure to check with your local government to ensure you are in compliance.
Placement Restrictions: There may be restrictions on where you can place your trash cans for collection. These restrictions can vary by location and may be related to aesthetics or safety.

Rental vs. Purchase

Rental Agreement: Waste Management typically rents out trash cans to customers. You do not own the can, and you are responsible for its upkeep and maintenance.
Replacement Policy: Inquire about Waste Management’s policy for replacing damaged or lost cans. You may be responsible for the cost of replacing a can if it is damaged due to negligence.

FAQs: Addressing Common Questions About Getting Another Trash Can

Q1: Will my Waste Management bill increase if I get an additional trash can?

Yes, adding another trash can will increase your bill because of the additional service fees associated with collecting and disposing of the extra waste. The cost will vary depending on the size of the can and your location.

Q2: Can I just use my own trash can instead of getting one from Waste Management?

Generally, no. Most Waste Management service agreements require you to use approved receptacles that are compatible with their collection trucks and systems. Using your own can might result in it not being emptied.

Q3: What size trash cans are available from Waste Management?

The sizes of trash cans offered by Waste Management can vary by region. Common sizes include 35-gallon, 64-gallon, and 96-gallon. Contact your local WM office to confirm the available options in your area.

Q4: What happens if my neighbor keeps using my trash can, causing it to overflow?

You should first attempt to address the issue directly with your neighbor. If the problem persists, contact Waste Management to report the issue. They may be able to provide a solution such as a different placement of your can or monitoring of the collection area.

Q5: Can I temporarily suspend service on my additional trash can if I don’t need it for a period of time (e.g., during a vacation)?

The ability to suspend service varies by location and agreement. Contact your local Waste Management customer service to inquire about their temporary suspension policies and any associated fees or requirements.

Q6: What if my trash can gets damaged? Who is responsible for replacing it?

Typically, Waste Management is responsible for replacing trash cans that are damaged due to normal wear and tear or during the collection process. However, if the damage is caused by negligence on your part, you may be responsible for the replacement cost.

Q7: Does Waste Management offer larger dumpsters for residential use if I need even more capacity than an additional trash can provides?

While primarily for commercial use, Waste Management may offer smaller dumpsters for residential customers with exceptionally high waste generation. Contact your local WM office to discuss your specific needs and explore this option. Availability will vary.

Q8: Is there a limit to the number of extra trash cans I can request from Waste Management?

Yes, there is typically a limit. Many municipalities have ordinances restricting the number of trash cans per household. Waste Management will also consider logistical factors and the impact on their collection routes. Contact them to determine the specific limitations in your area.

Q9: I’m moving. Can I transfer my additional trash can service to my new address?

Yes, you can generally transfer your service. Contact Waste Management at least a week before your move to arrange the transfer. Be prepared to provide your new address and account information.

Q10: What should I do if Waste Management denies my request for an additional trash can?

If your request is denied, inquire about the specific reason for the denial. If the reason is related to local ordinances, contact your local government to understand the regulations. You can also explore alternative waste management solutions, such as extra bag stickers or private waste disposal services.

Q11: What is Waste Management’s policy on disposing of bulky items like furniture?

Waste Management typically offers bulky item pickup services, but these often require a separate appointment and may involve additional fees. Contact your local WM office to schedule a pickup and inquire about their specific policies and pricing.

Q12: Can I get a discount on an additional trash can if I demonstrate that I’m actively composting and recycling?

Some municipalities offer incentives for residents who actively participate in waste reduction programs. Contact your local government or Waste Management to inquire about any available discounts or rebates for composting and recycling efforts. While not always available, it’s worth exploring.