With roughly 40% of landfill waste being paper, its no wonder why consumers and businesses are being called now more than ever to recycle paper as often as possible.
\r\n\r\nWe are all sitting on a huge opportunity to reduce the size of our landfills at a time when landfill \"real estate\" is limited and dwindling by the day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecycling is a great cause but there are rules you must follow in order to not contaminate a batch of recyclables.
\r\n
Not following these rules can lead to recyclables having to be tossed into a landfill, producing the exact opposite results you were trying for.
\r\n\r\nWe'll go over everything you need to know about paper recycling for homes and businesses so you can ensure your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n\r\nAs we've already mentioned, one of the more obvious benefits of recycling paper is conserving landfill space, but that only just scratches the surface of the many benefits of paper recycling.
\r\n\r\nMany of us were taught in school that recycling paper helps to reduce the amount of trees that are cut down, but how many trees are we actually preserving?
\r\n\r\nTo put it in perspective, if all newspapers that were put into production every year were recycled, we could save around 250 MILLION trees each year!
\r\n\r\nFor every ton (2,000 lbs) of paper that is recycled, we save roughly:
\r\n\r\nIf you're more motivated by the economy than you are the environment, don't worry, we've got you covered there too.
\r\n\r\nA new study by Eco-Cycle shows that if the United States could transition to a 75% recycling rate by the year 2030, we would create an estimate 1-2 million new jobs!
\r\n\r\nJobs created by the recycling industry aren't minimum wage jobs, either. The recycling industry offers theirs workers competitive wages and health benefits.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nOne of the most important things to keep in mind when recycling paper is that it is crucial to keep all paper products clean.
\r\n\r\nIn a mixed recycling bin where you throw aluminum, glass, plastic, paper, and cardboard, you're much more likely to get cross contamination from foods or liquids which can ruin an entire bale of recyclable paper.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe best paper recycling practice is to keep the paper separate from other types of recyclables so that they can remain clean.
\r\n
It's also important to understand the different types of paper products we use and what they can often be lined or mixed with.
\r\n\r\nSome of the old ways that we or our parents were taught to recycle is no longer applicable and can actually contaminate our more current paper recycling processes today.
\r\n\r\nChina is the world's largest purchaser of recycled paper and they have strict rules, requiring that recycled paper have 1% or less of contamination.
\r\n\r\nSo while it used to not be necessary in the past to remove the plastic windows in business envelopes, it can be the difference between contaminating recycled paper that can be repurchased or not.
\r\n\r\nThe best practices for recycling any type of material is to understand exactly what can and can't go in your bin, specifically in your area.
\r\n\r\nSome recycling facilities can handle certain products that others cannot.
\r\n\r\nFor example, most recycling centers can't recycle paper cups because they are actually lined with plastic.
\r\n\r\nThere are, however, some recycling centers that have special machines that can separate this plastic from cups.
\r\n\r\nThat's why it's important to get a list of accepted material directly from your waste management company so that you aren't mistakingly contaminating the paper or other items you're trying to recycle.
\r\n\r\nHere is a list of the most universally accepted paper products that can be recycled:
\r\n\r\nMixed material items like orange juice containers and milk cartons can be recycled in some areas, and not in others.
\r\n\r\nAgain, that's why it's important to do local research before tossing just anything into your recycling bin.
\r\n\r\n![\"Paper](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/paper-cup.jpg\")
\r\nThere are many common mistakes well-intentioned people make when recycling paper.
\r\n\r\nOne of the most common is tossing in pizza boxes with grease stains.
\r\n\r\nWhile cardboard is a recyclable material, no paper products that are contaminated with food should be recycled.
\r\n\r\nIf the top half of your pizza box does not have any grease on it, feel free to separate that from the bottom half of your pizza box and put it into your recycling as long as you're sure it's clean.
\r\n\r\nAnother common mistake people make is throwing in paper items that are lined or coated with wax or plastic, like paper cups, milk cartons, juice boxes, receipts, parchment paper, printed photographs, etc.
\r\n\r\nMany recycling centers can't recycle paper with fibers are already heavily refined, like tissue paper.
\r\n\r\nPaper towels and napkins have fibers that are too short to be recycled (but they can be composted!).
\r\n\r\nOne of the more shocking pieces of information regarding paper recycling that is a common mistake, for businesses especially, is that shredded paper cannot be recycled in the same manner as regular paper.
\r\n\r\nThe fibers in shredded paper have been shortened too much and the small pieces often jam recycling machinery.
\r\n\r\nSome facilities allow shredded paper that is contained in plastic bags and kept separate from other full pieces of paper, but not all do.
\r\n\r\nCheck with your local facility to learn more.
\r\n\r\nIf your curbside trash service also offers recycling, having your recycling picked up at the end of your driveway is certainly the most convenient option.
\r\n\r\nFor those who live in areas where this isn't offered, however, there are plenty of other options available.
\r\n\r\nMany communities have drop-off recycling programs or community dumpsters at different drop-off locations for recyclables.
\r\n\r\nMichigan, for example, has a paper and cardboard recycling program called PaperGator where residents can deposit their recyclable paper products into dumpster containers at several designated drop-off locations.
\r\n\r\nVisit Earth 911 to find recycling centers or programs near you. You can type in the specific type of material you'd like to recycle, as well as your zip code, and you'll be shown recycling solutions in your area.
\r\n\r\nIf you're a business or contractor that has large amounts of paper or cardboard to recycle that won't fit in your curbside collection, consider renting a dumpster for your recycling efforts.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you have a lot of paper to recycle but not enough to justify renting a dumpster, consider hiring a junk removal company to haul away your paper for you.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company will be able to recycle all your paper and cardboard products on your behalf without you having to lift a finger.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find junk removal services and dumpster rentals for all types of disposals across the U.S., including paper recycling!
\r\n\r\nSearch your zip code, answer a few quick questions about your project needs, and get free quotes from qualified companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nLearn everything you need to know about paper recycling to ensure that your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-15T18:07:46+00:00"},{"id":"a9c49e00-98b6-5ee9-b271-704121cd07f1","title":"Finding and Hiring the Right Dumpster Service","url":"/blog/hiring-the-right-dumpster-service-everything-you-need-to-know","image":{"path":"/static/68bb6bcd44a755077517b5b59af68f92/finding_5_star_service.jpg","alt":"person using smart phone with 5-star bubble above it"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"If you need to rent a dumpster, there’s more to consider than just the cost of the dumpster when hiring the right dumpster company for the job.
\r\n\r\nQuality of service is just as, if not more, important.
\r\n\r\nA company with the lowest prices might have a reputation for being late for deliveries or non-responsive to customer inquiries.
\r\n\r\nIt's important to weigh several factors when choosing the best dumpster service beyond just the bottom price.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen dumpster shopping, you should be asking, \"Which company offers the best value?\" not just, “Which company offers the best price?”
\r\n
Generally speaking, that means hiring a local dumpster rental company.
\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to dumpster rental service providers, going local is almost always better.
\r\n\r\nWhy? Because we're talking about a service, not a product.
\r\n\r\nSaving a couple bucks means nothing when it gets you bottom-of-the-barrel service.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to customer service, small, local companies’ personal approach far surpasses the cookie-cutter style of bigger name brands.
\r\n
The bigger companies’ business model is pretty simple: Profit through quantity and speed.
\r\n\r\nTheir \"customer service\" is better designed to pacify customers than actually assist in solving their problems.
\r\n\r\nThat's why you oftentimes hear big company customer service reps reciting standardized answers in a monotone voice with little evidence of concern.
\r\n\r\nAccording to the Harvard Business Review, smaller companies value “sincere empathy over indifferent calmness and common sense over the standard operating procedure.”
\r\n\r\nThe emphasis on customer service over revenue is why local companies’ services are typically more personalized and reliable than those of big-name brands.
\r\n\r\nNot to mention, in this industry, some large waste disposal companies claim to offer dumpster rental when in reality they outsource the service to another dumpster provider.
\r\n\r\nThis whole 'sub-contracting' situation ultimately leads to increased costs for you.
\r\n\r\nIf you're not communicating directly with the company that's supplying your dumpster, there is a greater chance of miscommunication and poor dumpster service as well.
\r\n\r\nLocal companies are more inclined to establish an ongoing relationship with customers due to their dedication to the community and that passion shows in their will to do right by the customer time and time again.
\r\n\r\nThey’re not just out to make a buck, they want to see a fellow member of the community succeed in completing their project.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"woman](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/calling-a-company.jpg\")
\r\nWhen calling or emailing companies for quotes (we recommend a minimum of 2-3 to be safe), listen to their tone as well as what they’re actually saying.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nGood customer service should last from the first phone call to final pick-up, and one bad customer service experience is usually a good indicator that more will follow.
\r\n
If you have an unpleasant experience simply getting a quote from a company over the phone, then chances are you won’t like the way they do business otherwise either.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you’re like 70% of consumers, you’re willing to pay a little bit more for quality service.
\r\n\r\nAccording to Business News Daily, a majority of consumers are willing to spend an average of 13% more if we think it will get them exceptional customer service.
\r\n\r\nHowever, that doesn’t mean you should adopt a “money is no object” outlook when it comes to getting extraordinary service from a local professional, especially when it comes to dumpster rental.
\r\n\r\nInstead, you should shop around just like you do everything else, assessing a company’s level of service in addition to their price.
\r\n\r\nThis is why we recommend getting 2-3 quotes or more when possible to ensure you get great dumpster rental services for a fair price.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, we screen and verify local companies to help you find the best one in your area, and we publish only authentic customer reviews.
\r\n\r\nSo, you can trust that all of the information published on the Hometown site is accurate.
\r\n![\"hometown](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/simple-and-affordable.jpg\")
\r\nSimply search for dumpster rental companies serving your zip code, learn more about dumpster rental services available in your area, and call the companies you’re interested in to request a quote from them.
\r\n\r\nIf you’re unsure of which dumpster size you’ll need, don’t worry—these companies are experts and will be able to help you pick the right one for your project.
\r\n\r\nHometown sponsors locally-owned dumpster companies that answer their own phone and process their own dumpster requests. There's no national call center or anything like that to deal with; you're connected straight to the company you dial.
\r\n\r\nWe survey waste dumpster and construction dumpster prices in each geographic area across the United States and work with our local affiliate to ensure they are offering dumpster service at a fair and competitive price.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nQuality customer service is just as important as pricing. Learn why hiring a locally-owned dumpster rental company is your best disposal option.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-23T01:15:52+00:00"},{"id":"b609e062-48f1-523a-a48b-b41590c98954","title":"Dumpsters: The Landlord's Secret Weapon for Streamlining Turnover","url":"/blog/dumpsters-the-landlords-secret-weapon-for-streamlining-turnover","image":{"path":"/static/44379bd3c1629aff116471388313beb3/dumpster-in-front-of-apartment.jpg","alt":"dumpster in front of apartment buildings"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"For landlords, managing tenant turnover can be a time-consuming and sometimes challenging process.
\r\n\r\nWhen one tenant leaves and another moves in, the property often requires cleaning, repairs, and updates. One of the most significant challenges in this process is dealing with the accumulation of waste and debris that often gets left behind.
\r\n\r\nTo streamline this aspect of tenant turnover, many landlords are turning to dumpster rentals. In this article, we will explore how dumpster rentals can significantly benefit landlords in managing tenant turnover efficiently.
\r\n\r\nTenant turnover is a regular occurrence in the world of property management. It involves several essential steps, including cleaning, maintenance, and renovation, to prepare the property for new occupants. While these tasks are crucial for maintaining the property's value and attracting new tenants, they can be a significant burden for landlords.
\r\n\r\nOne of the most common issues faced during tenant turnover is waste disposal. Tenants often leave behind furniture, appliances, and general household waste. In addition, landlords need to deal with renovation and repair debris, which may include old carpeting, drywall, and fixtures. Managing all this waste can be a daunting task without a proper plan.
\r\n\r\n![\"apartment](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/apartment-dumpster.jpg\")
\r\nDumpster rentals can be a valuable solution for landlords facing the challenges of tenant turnover.
\r\n\r\nHere are some key benefits to incorporating dumpster rentals into the process...
\r\n\r\nDumpster rentals provide an efficient means of waste disposal. Instead of making multiple trips to a landfill, landlords can conveniently dispose of all waste in one place. This saves time and effort, allowing landlords to focus on other crucial aspects of tenant turnover, especially if there are multiple units to flip.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rentals are often more cost-effective than other waste disposal methods, especially if there is a large amount of junk. Paying for a single dumpster, regardless of its size, can be more economical than hiring a waste removal service or making several trips to a landfill yourself. Additionally, it eliminates the need for purchasing trash bags or paying for curbside waste removal on a per-bag basis.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nAs any landlord knows, tenant turnover is a time-sensitive process—the sooner a property is ready for new tenants, the sooner it can start generating rental income again.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rentals can significantly reduce the time needed for waste removal, making the turnover process more efficient.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental companies offer a variety of dumpster sizes, allowing landlords to choose the one that best suits their needs.
\r\n\r\nWhether it's a small dumpster for minor waste, like a 10 yard or 15 yard container, or a larger one for extensive renovations, like a 30 or 40 yard container, landlords can find a suitable option to accommodate their specific requirements.
\r\n\r\nProper waste disposal is not only a matter of convenience but also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions. Dumpster rentals ensure that landlords comply with waste disposal regulations, avoiding potential fines or legal complications.
\r\n\r\nDumpsters also make it a breeze to manage any renovation and repair projects during tenant turnover. On average, tenant turnovers require anywhere from $1,000-$5,000 in repairs, and with a dumpster, contractors can dispose of any debris from those projects in a designated location, keeping your property clean, organized, and safe for any remaining tenants.
\r\n\r\nTo make the most of your dumpster rental during tenant turnover, we recommend landlords follow these steps:
\r\n\r\nPlan Ahead: Do your best to determine the right dumpster size based on the scope of the turnover project, or at the very least get a good idea of how much junk you need to dispose of and the projects taking place. The more information you can provide the dumpster companies you speak to, the better they can recommend the right dumpster size for your needs. Coordinate delivery and pick-up dates with the rental company to ensure the dumpster is available when needed for the amount of time that is convenient for you.
\r\n\tEducate Tenants: Inform departing tenants about the waste disposal process and the location of the dumpster if it will be available to them during moveout. Provide guidelines on what they can and cannot dispose of in the dumpster. If there are remaining tenants in the building, and they will not have access to the dumpster, advise them of the rules as well and implement strategies to minimize illegal dumping.
\r\n\tSupervise Waste Disposal: Keep an eye on the waste disposal process to ensure tenants are following guidelines, or consider installing video surveillance of the dumpster if it's not already placed in such an area. This can prevent unauthorized dumping and minimize your risks of being charged for adding items to the dumpster that don't belong.
\r\n\tRecycle When Possible: Consider recycling and reusing items when appropriate and advise anyone with access to the dumpster to do the same. This not only benefits the environment but can also save money on waste disposal costs that can go towards repairs or other maintenance costs.
\r\n\tMaintain Safety: Ensure that the dumpster is placed in a safe and accessible location. Take necessary precautions to prevent accidents or damage to the property during the waste disposal process.
\r\n\tLearn more:
\r\n\r\nStreamlining tenant turnover is a critical aspect of successful property management. Dumpster rentals offer landlords an efficient and cost-effective solution to the waste disposal challenges associated with this process. By incorporating dumpster rentals into their processes, landlords can save time, money, and effort, while also ensuring compliance with waste disposal regulations.
\r\n
\r\nHometown makes it beyond easy to find dumpster rentals in your area. Our quote request form makes it easy to request quotes from multiple local companies with a single click. We also only publish verified real customer reviews, so you can trust that customer testimonials are a real glimpse into that company's service. We also answer the biggest dumpster rental questions, all of which streamline the dumpster rental process and increase the chances of a positive experience.
For landlords, managing tenant turnover can be a time-consuming and sometimes challenging process. Find out how dumpster rentals can significantly streamline the process.
\r\n","changed":"2023-11-16T18:40:37+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Alabama","place":"Mobile, AL","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"alaska/commercial-waste-management-mobile-al","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alabama","place":"Birmingham, AL","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Alabama/junk-removal/birmingham-al.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alabama","place":"Huntsville, AL","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"alabama/junk-removal-huntsville-al","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alabama","place":"Montgomery, AL","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"alabama/junk-removal-montgomery-al","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alabama","place":"Birmingham, AL","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Alabama/Birmingham-AL-dumpsters.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alabama","place":"Huntsville, AL","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Alabama/Huntsville-AL-dumpster.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"20 Yard Dumpsters","body":"20 yard dumpsters are the most commonly rented container size due to their versatility and cost efficiency. They are great for lots of projects, including home cleanout projects, yard waste removal, kitchen or bathroom renovations, pool removals, and more.
\r\n\r\nThe nationwide average cost of renting a 20 yard roll-off container is between $350 and $550. Other charges for overages, tonnage, fuel surcharges, late fees, and certain types of debris may also apply. Always ask the dumpster providers you speak to about what the potential for extra charges so you aren’t surprised by anything. Also, be aware that dumpster prices can vary quite a bit from one location to the next, so check out our ultimate dumpster pricing guide and list of dumpster costs in all 50 states to get an idea for what a good price is in your area.
\r\n","place":null,"code":"20-yard-dumpster"}],"related":[{"title":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"alabama/commercial-waste-management-marion-al"},{"title":"Junk - Clean-up or Removal","url":"alabama/junk-removal-marion-al"}],"bread":{"title":"Dumpster rental","url":"alabama/dumpster-rental-marion-al"},"modal_project_types":[{"name":"Cleanout an Interior Space","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":542,"label":"Cleanout - Basement","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":543,"label":"Cleanout - Commercial","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":544,"label":"Cleanout - Estate","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":545,"label":"Cleanout - Garage","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":546,"label":"Cleanout - Hoarding","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Cleanup an Exterior Area","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":547,"label":"Cleanup - Storm Recovery","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":557,"label":"Trash Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":558,"label":"Yard Waste Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Construction & Demolition","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":548,"label":"Construction Debris Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":552,"label":"Light Demolition","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Large Item Removal","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":540,"label":"Appliance Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":541,"label":"Carpet Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":550,"label":"Furniture Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":553,"label":"Mattress Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":554,"label":"Refrigerator Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]}],"codes":[{"name":"10 Yard Dumpster","code":"10-yard-dumpster","paths":{"name":"10_Yard_Dumpster","code":"10-yard-dumpster"}},{"name":"20 Yard Dumpster","code":"20-yard-dumpster","paths":{"name":"20_Yard_Dumpster","code":"20-yard-dumpster"}},{"name":"Construction Dumpster","code":"construction-dumpster","paths":{"name":"Construction_Dumpster","code":"construction-dumpster"}},{"name":"Roll Off - Dumpsters for Rent","code":"roll-off-dumpsters","paths":{"name":"Roll_Off_Dumpsters_for_Rent","code":"roll-off-dumpsters"}}],"seo_desc":[{"name":"20 Yard Dumpsters","code":"20-yard-dumpster","kg_homepage_seo_desc":null,"kg_kpp_seo_desc":null,"kg_seo_label":null,"kg_state_seo_desc":null,"kg_panel_page_seo_desc":"Get the best deal on a 20-yard dumpster in PLACE_NAME. Compare local prices on medium dumpsters and book online, hassle-free with Hometown!"}],"pros":"36087, 34459, 31552, 24798","profiles":[[{"id":"36087"},{"id":"34459"},{"id":"31552"},{"id":"24798"}]],"code":"20-yard-dumpster","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com","site":"dumpster","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"ppp20"},"cards":{"24798":"\n\t\t\t\t\tEstablished in 2000, Lake Mitchell Construction, Inc.'s primary focus is commercial excavation and demolition. We also offer a range of services tailored to professionals in...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tYou can count on BinIT Disposal Solutions LLC to provide you with 20 yard dumpster rentals that meet both your practical and financial needs. With moderate...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tMartin Environmental Services, Inc. is a Veteran owned and operated small business started in 1999. We currently serve over 20,000 customers in Alabama, Georgia and Florida, providing...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tWhether it's a one-time dumpster rental or an ongoing project, Tuscaloosa Hauling delivers. We serve homes, businesses, and municipalities with trusted GFL Environmental service. Get...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t