Your waste collection setup needs to fit the waste your business produces, the space at your property and your daily routine. Whether you’re opening a business or replacing an existing service, these five steps will help you plan ongoing commercial waste collection in Ottawa and prepare for a quote.
1. Identify what your business throws away
Over a typical week, record how many bags you fill or how full your existing bins are before each pickup. Note the bag or bin sizes if you know them, and take photos to help show the volume. Keep separate notes for general garbage, cardboard, paper and other recyclable materials.
Note busy days and seasonal increases, too. Frequent cardboard deliveries may call for a different arrangement from mostly general waste. Ask your provider what belongs in each bin, which materials need separate collection and how to handle any unusual materials.
2. Choose a bin size that fits
Consider bin size and pickup frequency together. The bin needs enough capacity for the waste that builds up between collections, while fitting somewhere staff can use it and collection trucks can reach it. If space limits the size of the bin, ask what collection frequency could work for your waste volume.
Greenway offers front-end disposal containers in sizes of 2, 4, 6 and 8 cubic yards. Share your waste estimates and available space so the team can discuss suitable bin and collection options. You do not need to know the exact size before getting in touch.
3. Plan the location and collection access
Check gates, parked vehicles, overhead obstructions and the route a collection truck would use. Keep entrances and pedestrian routes clear. For a rented or shared site, involve your landlord or property manager.
Greenway offers optional lockable lids, which are worth discussing if the bin will be in a shared area. Ask about wheel options, too, if mobility is a consideration at your site.
Plan for Ottawa winters: choose a place to store snow that keeps the bin and collection route accessible.
If the proposed location would occupy City road allowance, check Ottawa’s encroachment requirements before arranging placement.
4. Match pickups to your business routine
Consider how quickly the bin fills. Delivery days, weekend trade and seasonal peaks can affect the frequency you need.
Greenway offers scheduled pickups for ongoing commercial waste collection. Discuss your busiest periods and access hours when arranging service. Once collection starts, note how full the bin is before pickup. If it regularly fills well before collection day or is collected nearly empty, discuss whether the bin size or schedule needs adjusting.
5. Request a quote with the useful details
Have these details ready:
- Business address and type of operation
- Main waste materials and estimated weekly volume
- Proposed bin location, ideally with a photo
- Access restrictions and preferred collection times
- Desired start date
If you’re changing providers, check your current service end date and coordinate existing-bin removal with the proposed start date for your new service.
To understand the quote and compare your options, ask:
- What pickup frequency is included?
- How are additional pickups priced?
- Which materials are accepted, and which need separate arrangements?
- What service terms apply, including changes or cancellation?
Get started with Greenway
Not sure which bin size or pickup schedule you need? Tell Greenway about your business, the waste you generate and your available space. Request a quote or call 613-519-8286 to discuss your options.