Container Types are used to define, manage, and standardize the physical containers used throughout waste management processes. It ensures accurate documentation, safety compliance, and operational efficiency across manifests, labels, and internal workflows.
Container Types help categorize and track the kinds of containers used for storing, transporting, or disposing of waste materials.
Container Types Are Used to Define:
- Drums – Standard-sized cylindrical containers (e.g., 55-gallon steel or poly drums)
- Totes – Intermediate bulk containers (IBCs), often reusable
- Bins – Roll-off bins, hoppers, or other large open containers
- Pails – Small buckets, usually 5 or 7 gallons
- Boxes – Fiberboard boxes, cubic yard boxes, or lab packs
- Custom Types – Any other container types specific to your operations
Each Container Type entry represents a unique, reusable definition that can be selected during waste documentation.
What Information is Stored?
Each Container Type record includes structured fields, such as:
|
Field |
Description |
|
Container Name |
Descriptive label (e.g., “55-Gallon Steel Drum”) |
|
Tare Weight |
Weight of container when empty. This is used to calculate gross weight. |
|
Volume/Capacity |
Standard volume (e.g., 55 gal, 275 gal) |
|
Unit of Measure |
Gallons, liters, cubic yards, etc. |
|
Manifest Code |
Relevant Manifest Container Type Code, if applicable |
|
Drum Equivalent |
Size of the container compared to a drum. |
|
Is Reusable? |
Indicates whether the container is designed for reuse |
|
Requires Cleaning? |
Indicates whether the container should be washed before its reused. |
Where is Container Type Information Used?
Container Type data is automatically applied in the following areas:
- Waste Manifests – For specifying how waste is packaged and transported
- Labels – Auto-fills container size and compliance data
- Inventory & Tracking – For managing reusable container counts and usage
- Reports and Audits – Ensures consistent classification and traceability
Best Practices
- ✅ Standardize container naming conventions for clarity
- ✅ Include regulatory ratings (e.g., Manifest Container Type code) where required
- ✅ Periodically review container specs to ensure accuracy
- ✅ Archive or deactivate outdated or no-longer-used container types
Common Questions
Q: Can I customize the list of Container Types?
A: Yes, you can create new container types to reflect your specific operational needs, including custom volumes or container names.
Q: Can multiple waste streams use the same Container Type?
A: Absolutely. Container Types are reusable and can be selected for any waste record that uses that type of packaging.
Q: What happens if I edit a Container Type that's already in use?
A: Changes will take effect immediately on live data. Historical manifests or reports will retain the original container information for audit integrity.
Q: Can I track the number of times a reusable container is used?
A: Yes, if your account includes inventory tracking, reusable containers can be monitored for usage, cleaning, and inspection cycles.