A dumpster is a helpful waste disposal solution, but before getting one, you need to think about the unit’s space requirements. Not only does the location need to have room for the dumpster itself, but there also has to be room for the truck to empty it. How much space does a garbage truck need for trash pickup? More than you might expect. The following guide explains what you need to think about when choosing a spot for your new permanent dumpster.

Approach

When collecting garbage, the truck needs to be square with the dumpster, so the forks can pick it up correctly. Since garbage trucks are very large, they can be difficult to maneuver. To line the truck up properly with the dumpster, the driver needs about 60 feet of clearance to approach.

Access

Similarly, a garbage truck isn’t made to navigate tight corners. An average truck’s turning radius is 35 feet. If your container is in a parking lot or alley, then the route leading to it must be wide enough to let the truck enter and turn.

Overhead Clearance

Overhanging trees or electrical wires can also interfere with waste disposal. The collection truck is taller than most vehicles, and lifting a dumpster to empty it requires even more clearance. Make sure there are at least 20 feet of space available over the area where the dumpster will be kept.

Enclosures

Many owners create separate enclosures for their dumpsters to keep them hidden from view and limit access. If you intend to do the same, the enclosure itself will also have to accommodate a garbage truck. It should be at least 14 feet wide and 12 feet deep to ensure trash pickup will go smoothly.

Once you know how much space is available for your business’s new dumpster, it’s time to find a reliable waste management team to empty it. Southeast Waste Disposal in Ozark, AL, is your solution for trash disposal across Dale, Coffee, Henry, Pike, Covington, Houston, and Geneva counties. They offer dumpster rentals on a permanent basis, which includes a regular pickup schedule to keep your site clean. For more information, call (334) 774-4158 or send a message online.