Waste handling and disposal is possibly the most unsung hero of large events. Events like music festivals, street fairs, and art shows generate a significant amount of trash and managing this waste is crucial to making the event a success. Waste management is easy to overlook during the planning phase because, if done right, even attendees should never notice it at all. 

Renting a roll-off dumpster is the best way to deal with trash generated by your event. They ensure litter is collected in a centralized location, reducing litter and making eventual disposal much easier. They are also convenient and cost-effective as the rental company drops them off empty before your event and removes the full container after. Finally, rental dumpsters are available in different sizes so you never have to pay for space you don’t use. 

Already found a dumpster rental for your next Chicago event? Great! Ensure your rental goes smoothly with these few tips and tricks, or you can find more about dumpster rental Chicago IL here.

Understand What Your Dumpster Rental Needs

As stated above, dumpsters come in several different sizes and are typically measured by how many yards long they are. Sizes typically run from 10 yards to 50 yards with a 20-yard container able to hold about two tons of trash. To put that in perspective, that’s about six pickup trucks’ worth of debris.

Consider what sort of event you’re holding and how many attendees you plan to have pass through each day. This will give you insight into how much waste you’ll need to deal with. For reference, the 250,000 Coachella attendees generate 106 tons of waste each day. 

Work with your rental company regarding any permits you might need. Some cities require special permissions for dumpsters over a certain size.

Place Your Dumpster Strategically

Place your dumpster, or dumpsters, in convenient locations. Even if you plan to put out trash bins for attendees, you don’t have event staff to have to cart full bags of trash around the grounds. If your event has food, consider placing your dumpster near that area. Food vendors tend to get the highest foot traffic and generate the most trash. Entrances and exits are other good places for dumpsters as people will throw away their trash as they arrive or depart the event.

Fill the Dumpster the Smart Way

Most dumpster rental companies will charge extra fees if you overfill your container. Filling your bin efficiently will not only make waste disposal easier but it will save you money as well. If you have heavy or cumbersome items throw those away first. Thrown in your trash bags after. Break down any large boxes or cartons to save more space and make stacking easier.

Consider Dropoff and Pickup Needs

Most companies include dropoff and pickup as part of the contract but you should still ask to verify they’re included. If not, as if they provide that as a service and how much it costs, of if they have a recommended partner who will do it for you. The last thing you want is a full dumpster you can’t get rid of.

Dropoff and pickup will also play a factor in where you put your dumpster. Make sure the area has enough space for the bin plus extra clearance on each side. Dumpsters are transported by large trucks so consider that accessibility as well.

Chicago has no shortage of events ranging in size from Lollapalooza to small neighborhood block parties. Lots of factors go into making them a success and trash management is an important one. Follow the tip above to ensure your rental goes off without a hitch and your special occasion is a success.