How Does Commercial Waste Collection Work?

One thing every business has in common, no matter their size or industry, is commercial waste. 

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How Does Commercial Waste Collection Work?

One thing every business has in common, no matter their size or industry, is commercial waste. 

While it's not the sexiest of topics, knowing how to properly dispose of your business waste is essential because, if you don't, you could face some pretty severe consequences.  

Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about commercial waste collection and how it affects your business.

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What Is Commercial Waste?

Commercial waste, sometimes known as business waste or trade waste, is any waste generated as a result of business activity. 

This can be anything from construction debris to food waste, from glass bottles to stacks of paper. 

Although you can dispose of it yourself (more on that later), professional commercial waste disposal services can make your life easier when it comes to getting rid of your rubbish.

"But what if my business is run from my home?"

Good question. 

Even if your business operates out of your home, any waste generated as a result of this work is regarded as business waste and therefore needs to be properly disposed of in specified commercial waste bins. 

And don't think about sneaking it into your regular bins because if you're caught, you could end up on the wrong end of some hefty fines or even prison time.  

What Are the Different Types of Commercial Waste?

Commercial waste can be broken down into five main types. 

General Waste 
Everyday waste that cannot be recycled 
Non-recyclable plastics, takeaway coffee cups, garden waste 

Dry Mix Recycling 
Everyday waste that can be recycled 
Cardboard, paper, recyclable plastics 

Food Waste 
Any waste that involves food 
Food scrapings, expired food, leftovers 

Glass Waste 
Any waste that involves glass 
Jars, bottles

Clinical Waste 
Waste typically from healthcare services that pose the risk of infection 
Medical dressings, syringes, tattoo needles

These can then be further broken down into two categories: 

Hazardous Waste
Waste that may be harmful to human health or the environment

Non-hazardous Waste 
Waste that is not harmful to human health or the environment 

Each type of waste will require its own waste bins, and cross-contamination could once again see you facing a fine or prison time. 

The government takes this very seriously; make sure you do as well.

Who Requires Commercial Waste Collection?

All businesses produce waste to some degree, and they all need to dispose of it properly. Disposing of waste also means handling all of the legal paperwork that comes along with it. 

A hassle-free way of doing this is by hiring a commercial waste removal company. 

Below, we've highlighted a few different industries that can benefit from this service. 

Restaurants, Bars, and Food Services 
These businesses generate significant food waste, including kitchen scraps, expired food, leftovers, and packaging waste.

Retail and eCommerce
Retail and eComm businesses produce waste that includes packaging materials, cardboard boxes, and plastics.

Manufacturing* 
Industrial waste, hazardous waste, and scrap materials are all by-products of the manufacturing industry. 

Construction* 
Large amounts of potentially hazardous construction and demolition waste will be produced at construction sites. 

Medical Facilities* 
Hospitals, clinics, and cosmetics businesses generate medical waste that poses the risk of infection. 

Offices
Paper, cardboard, food waste, and electronic waste are all common types of waste in office environments.

Hospitality
These businesses generate large amounts of food waste, packaging, and other waste materials.

* Specific services may be required to properly dispose of this type of waste

Get a Tailored Commercial Waste Quote

If you think your business could benefit from a professional commercial waste disposal service, then we can help! 

All you have to do is tap the "Get Free Quote" button below, answer a few quick questions about your business, and you will receive a quote tailored to your specific needs. 

All quotes are non-committal and 100% free, so get yours now! 

Get Your Free Quote

Your Commercial Waste Questions Answered


The cost of commercial waste will depend on four main factors:

  • The type of waste you produce 
  • The amount of waste you produce 
  • How frequently do you require disposal
  • Your location

It will be cheaper to have the service collect papers from your city office once a month rather than have hazardous waste collected from a remote location on a weekly basis. 

This will depend on your provider. 

Most will require you to sign up for a recurring service, much like a gym membership or phone contract, though some may offer one-time collections. We've made a guide which features some of the best business waste companies in the UK. 

Absolutely, but there are some boxes you have to check to make sure you do this legally. 

The first step is to register as a "registered waste carrier," which will give you a waste carrier licence at a cost of £150 per year. 

You will have to make sure you are disposing of the waste in accordance with regulations, and you must keep records of your waste disposal for a minimum of two years. 

If you dispose of your waste illegally, then you may be punished with an unlimited fine or up to 5 years in prison. 

From creation to disposal, you have a duty of care for your business waste. 

Below we have named 5 key waste disposal regulations you should be aware of; for a more in-depth look, be sure to check out our UK waste rules and regulations guide.

  • It is illegal to cross-contaminate your business waste, so if you produce multiple types of waste, you must have individual waste bins for each /lili1/>It is your responsibility that any waste collected from your premises .must be colleit yourself. 
  • You must take extra care disposing of hazardous waste as this can cause damage to the environment. Failure to do so could result in serious penalties. 
  • You cannot take commercial waste to recycling centres as these are for household waste only. 
  • To legally dispose of your waste yourself, you must be a "Registered Waste Carrier".

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