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Dumpster Myths Debunked: What You Think You Know Might Be Wrong

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 15:34:06 GMT

When it comes to dumpsters and waste transfer stations, misinformation is everywhere. From homeowners tackling a renovation to contractors managing large job sites, these myths can lead to costly mistakes, safety issues, and missed opportunities for smarter waste management.

At Berks Transfer, we believe informed customers make better decisions—and save more in the process. Let’s break down some of the most common dumpster myths and uncover the truth behind them.

Myth #1: “All Dumpsters Are the Same”

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Dumpsters come in a range of sizes and types; each is designed for specific projects. A small home cleanout doesn’t require the same container as a commercial construction site.

Choosing the wrong size can lead to overpaying or running out of space mid-project. The right dumpster provider will help you match your needs with the container—saving you time, money, and frustration.

Myth #2: “You Can Throw Anything in a Dumpster”

It’s easy to assume a dumpster is a catch-all solution, but certain materials are restricted for safety and environmental reasons. Items like hazardous waste, chemicals, batteries, and certain electronics often require special handling .

Understanding what can and can’t go into your dumpster helps you avoid fines and ensures responsible disposal. A professional waste transfer station like Berks Transfer can guide you on proper sorting and disposal practices.

Myth #3: “Dumpster Rentals Are Too Expensive”

Many people avoid renting a dumpster because they assume it’s costly. Dumpster rentals are often more affordable than multiple trips to a landfill—especially when you factor in fuel, time, and labor.

With transparent pricing and flexible options, Berks Transfer helps customers stay within budget while getting the job done efficiently.

Myth #4: “You Don’t Need a Dumpster for Small Projects”

Think again. Even small projects, such as garage cleanouts, landscaping, or minor renovations, can generate more waste than expected.

Having a dumpster on-site keeps your space organized, improves safety, and speeds up cleanup. It’s not about the size of the project; it’s about working smarter.

Myth #5: “Waste Transfer Stations Are Just Dumping Grounds”

Modern waste transfer stations are highly organized facilities designed to streamline waste management. They play a critical role in sorting, recycling, and reducing landfill impact.

At Berks Transfer, waste is carefully handled to maximize efficiency and environmental responsibility. This isn’t just disposal—it’s part of a larger system that supports cleaner, greener communities.

Myth #6: “Renting a Dumpster Is Complicated”

Some people imagine a long, confusing process. Renting a dumpster is very easy when you work with the right partner.

From helping you choose the right size to scheduling delivery and pickup, Berks Transfer makes the process smooth and hassle-free. You focus on your project and we’ll handle the waste.

The Truth: Smarter Waste Management Starts with the Right Partner

Believing these myths can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. The reality is that dumpsters and transfer stations are powerful tools for efficiency, safety, and sustainability—when used correctly.

Whether you’re a homeowner clearing out space or a contractor managing a busy job site, having the right waste solution in place makes all the difference.

Ready to Get Started? Partner with Berks Transfer Today

Don’t let outdated myths hold your project back. With reliable service, transparent pricing, and a commitment to responsible waste management, Berks Transfer is your trusted local partner.

Contact us today to get the right dumpster for your needs and experience waste management the way it should be—simple, efficient, and stress-free.

How to Fill a Dumpster Correctly: A Complete Guide for Efficient Waste Management

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 20:27:32 GMT

When tackling a home renovation, construction project, or major cleanout, renting a dumpster simplifies waste disposal. Knowing how to fill a dumpster correctly helps maximize space, stay within weight limits, and avoid added fees. In this guide, we’ll share expert tips for efficient, safe, and cost-effective loading.

Why Proper Dumpster Loading Matters

Filling a dumpster takes more than just tossing items—it requires strategy. This ensures you:

Maximize available space
Prevent overage fees
Ensure safe transportation
Comply with local disposal regulations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Filling a Dumpster Correctly

1. Start with a Plan

Before you begin loading, sort your waste into categories:

Heavy materials (concrete, bricks, dirt)
Bulky items (furniture, appliances)
Loose debris (wood, drywall, yard waste)

Planning ahead helps you distribute weight evenly and avoid prohibited items.

2. Load Heavy Items First

Always begin with the heaviest materials. Place them at the bottom of the dumpster to create a stable base.

Examples of heavy materials:

Concrete
Asphalt
Roofing shingles
Soil

This prevents lighter debris from being crushed, helping to maintain balance during transport.

3. Break Down Large Items

To maximize space, disassemble bulky objects whenever possible:

Break down furniture
Cut large branches
Flatten boxes

This reduces air gaps, allowing you to fit more items into the dumpster.

4. Distribute Weight Evenly

Avoid piling everything on one side. Uneven weight distribution can:

Make hauling unsafe
Create additional charges.
Cause damage during transport

Materials should be spread evenly across the floor.

5. Fill Gaps with Smaller Debris

After placing large items, use smaller debris to fill empty spaces:

Toss loose materials into gaps.
Use bags for fine debris, like insulation or dirt.
Compact waste gently to create more room.

Think of it like packing a suitcase—every inch counts.

6. Don’t Overfill the Dumpster

Some believe that to get the most out of a dumpster rental is to fit as much as they can into it. This is dangerous; overfilling a dumpster causes safety issues, especially for the driver transporting the dumpster to a transfer station or landfill.

Every dumpster has a fill line, usually marked along the top edge: Never load waste above this line . You don’t have to worry about that with a Berks Transfer dumpster. Our dumpsters have a clearly marked fill line—and our team is here to answer any questions you may have.

Overfilling can result in:

Extra fees
Refused pickup
Safety hazards on the road

If you have more waste than expected, consider renting an additional dumpster or reusing the dumpster after it has been emptied.

7. Know What You Can’t Throw Away

Certain items are typically prohibited, including:

Hazardous waste (chemicals, paints, oils)
Batteries
Tires
Electronics

Check with your rental provider for a full list to avoid penalties. At Berks Transfer, we do not accept these items.

8. Use Proper Safety Practices

Safety should always come first:

Wear gloves and protective gear.
Lift with proper technique.
Avoid climbing inside the dumpster.
Keep children and pets away from the dumpster.

Pro Tips from Marketing & Industry Experts

To make your project even smoother:

Choose the right size dumpster : Renting too small leads to overflow; renting too large wastes money.
Schedule strategically : Plan your rental during peak project days.
Place the dumpster wisely : Keep it accessible but out of the way.
Communicate with your provider : Ask about weight limits and restrictions, so you can get the most for your money.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Throwing everything in randomly
Ignoring weight limits
Overloading one side
Disposing of restricted items
Waiting until the last minute to organize waste

When you avoid these mistakes, you’ll have a hassle-free experience.

Final Thoughts

Filling a dumpster correctly is both an art and a science. The goal is to maximize space, minimize costs, and keep your project running efficiently.

If you're planning a project in Berks or surrounding counties, trust Berks Transfer for dependable dumpster rental services and expert advice every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more!

Construction Season Starts Soon: Do You Have Your Dumpster?

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 21:21:25 GMT

Construction season in Reading, PA, and Berks County is just around the corner. While most focus on materials, permits, and schedules, one essential step is often overlooked: managing construction waste.

Renting a dumpster early—before demolition or material delivery—keeps your project organized, safe, and efficient from the very start.

Construction Debris Adds Up Fast

Even small projects generate a large amount of debris. Demolition materials, packaging, and leftover supplies can pile up quickly, slowing progress and creating hazards. A dumpster rental solves this problem.

Safety and Productivity Go Hand in Hand

Loose debris increases the risk of trips, falls, and equipment damage. With a dumpster on-site, crews can dispose of waste immediately, maintaining a safer and clean workspace.

Benefits include:

Fewer safety hazards
Easier movement for workers and equipment
Faster project completion

Efficient waste management allows your team to focus on building, not cleanup.

Save Time and Keep Projects on Schedule

Without an on-site dumpster, crews make extra trips or pile debris in inconvenient areas, causing delays and added costs. A dumpster lets you dispose of waste directly, and full containers are replaced quickly to keep your project moving.

Stay Compliant with Local Regulations

Berks County enforces strict construction waste rules. Improper disposal can lead to fines or project delays. Berks Transfer ensures your project meets all local, state, and federal requirements, managing waste responsibly from start to finish.

Perfect for Any Project

Dumpster rentals aren’t just for large commercial jobs—they’re ideal for:

Home renovations and remodels
Roof replacements
Garage or deck removals
Landscaping projects
Estate or property cleanouts

Choosing the right dumpster size ensures efficient debris management without unnecessary cost.

Plan for a Smooth Project

Spring and summer are peak construction months. Waiting until the last minute for a dumpster can cause delays or limited availability.

Plan ahead:

Estimate debris type and volume.
Choose the right dumpster size.
Schedule delivery at the start of your project

This ensures your job site remains clean, safe, and productive from day one.

Start Your Project Right

Smart planning includes managing debris before it becomes a problem. A dumpster rental from Berks Transfer keeps your site organized, safe, and efficient from start to finish. They have the experience and expertise to choose the right dumpster for your project. You’ll also appreciate their flexible scheduling and hassle-free delivery and pick up.

Contact Berks Transfer today to reserve your affordable dumpster before construction season hits!

How Waste Transfer Stations Improve Collection Efficiency

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 19:21:31 GMT

Efficient waste collection is the backbone of a clean, healthy community. But what most people don’t see is the logistics behind the scenes that make that efficiency possible. At Berks Transfer, improving waste collection efficiency isn’t just a goal — it’s part of how we serve our customers and our community every day.

Here’s how waste transfer stations play a critical role in streamlining the entire waste management process.

1. Shorter Hauls for Collection Trucks

Collection trucks are designed to pick up waste from neighborhoods and businesses — not to drive long distances to landfills.

A waste transfer station acts as a central consolidation point. Instead of traveling miles to a landfill, trucks drop off collected waste at Berks Transfer. This allows them to:

Complete more routes per day.
Reduce fuel consumption
Lower vehicle wear and tear
Get back into neighborhoods faster.

The result? Faster service and lower operational costs.

2. Faster Turnaround Times

Time is money in waste collection. When trucks spend less time driving to distant disposal sites, they spend more time doing what they’re meant to do — collecting waste efficiently.

At Berks Transfer, our streamlined unloading process helps minimize wait times and keeps vehicles moving. That means:

Less congestion
Improved route productivity
More consistent pickup schedules

3. Smarter Waste Consolidation

Transfer stations allow waste to be combined into larger, high-capacity transport trailers. These trailers are designed for long-distance hauling, making transport to landfills or recycling facilities far more efficient than sending multiple small trucks.

By consolidating loads, Berks Transfer helps:

Reduce the number of long-haul trips.
Lower greenhouse gas emissions
Improve overall transportation efficiency.

It’s smarter logistics that benefit both businesses and the environment.

4. Reduced Environmental Impact

Efficiency and sustainability are closely linked. By minimizing drive time and maximizing load capacity, transfer stations reduce:

Fuel usage
Traffic congestion
Carbon emissions

Berks Transfer supports environmentally responsible waste management through optimized transportation strategies that reduce our overall footprint.

5. Better Service for Businesses & Municipalities

For general contractors, businesses, and local communities, efficiency means reliability. A well-operated transfer station ensures:

Predictable tipping times
Flexible disposal options
Faster turnaround for roll-off containers
Dependable service during peak demand

At Berks Transfer, our focus on operational efficiency helps keep construction projects on schedule and neighborhoods running smoothly.

Why Collection Efficiency Matters

Efficient waste collection doesn’t just save money — it improves public health, reduces environmental impact, and strengthens community infrastructure. Waste transfer stations are the logistical hub that makes this possible.

By acting as a strategic midpoint between collection routes and final disposal sites, Berks Transfer enhances route performance, lowers costs, and delivers dependable service in Berks and surrounding counties. Contact us today to learn how our waste transfer station supports smarter, faster waste collection for your business needs.

How a Dumpster Is Delivered and Picked Up: A Step-by-Step Guide from Berks Transfer

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 20:03:46 GMT

Renting a dumpster shouldn’t feel complicated—but if you’ve never done it before, you might wonder what happens on delivery day or how pickup works once you’re finished. At Berks Transfer, we believe informed customers are happy customers, so let’s walk through the process of dumpster delivery and pickup.

Whether you’re tackling a home cleanout, remodeling project, or construction job in Berks County, this guide will help you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Scheduling Your Dumpster Rental

Everything starts with a quick call or online request. When you contact Berks Transfer, our team helps you choose the right dumpster size based on your project—so you don’t overpay or run out of space mid-job.

We’ll also ask:

Where the dumpster will be placed
How long you’ll need it
What type of materials you’re disposing of

Once the details are set, we schedule a delivery date that works for you.

Berks Transfer has a variety of dumpster sizes , including:

Step 2: Preparing for Dumpster Delivery

Before delivery day, a little preparation goes a long way.

Choose the Right Spot

Most dumpsters are placed on:

Driveways
Job sites
Parking areas

Make sure the space is:

Clear of vehicles and debris
Large enough for the dumpster and truck
Accessible with overhead clearance

If the dumpster needs to be placed on a street or public area, you may need a local permit. If you’re unsure, the Berks Transfer team is happy to guide you.

Step 3: Dumpster Delivery Day

On delivery day, a professional Berks Transfer driver arrives with your dumpster on a specialized roll-off truck.

Here’s how delivery works:

The driver positions the truck carefully.
Protective boards may be placed to help protect surfaces like asphalt or concrete.
The dumpster is gently rolled off and set in place exactly where you requested.

The process is quick, safe, and designed to minimize disruption to your property.

Once it’s down, your dumpster is ready to use immediately.

Step 4: Using Your Dumpster Properly

To avoid delays or extra fees, keep these tips in mind:

Do not overfill—materials should stay level with the top
Distribute weight evenly inside the dumpster
Only dispose of approved materials

If you’re ever unsure about what can go into your dumpster, just ask. Berks Transfer believes in clear communication—no surprises.

Step 5: Scheduling Dumpster Pickup

When your project is finished, scheduling pickup is easy. Simply give Berks Transfer a call, and we’ll arrange a pickup time that fits your schedule.

You need to be present to ensure:

The dumpster is accessible.
Nothing is blocking the truck’s path.

Step 6: Dumpster Pickup Day

On pickup day:

Our driver arrives as scheduled.
The dumpster is safely loaded back onto the truck.
The area is checked before departure.

Your waste is then transported to an approved disposal facility, handled responsibly and in compliance with local, state and federal regulations.

Why Choose Berks Transfer for Dumpster Rental?

Customers throughout Berks County trust Berks Transfer because we offer:

Reliable, on-time delivery and pickup
Friendly, knowledgeable local service
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
A commitment to safe and responsible waste disposal

We don’t just drop off dumpsters—we make the entire process smooth from start to finish.

Ready to Rent a Dumpster?

If you’re planning a cleanup, renovation, or construction project, Berks Transfer is here to help. Now that you know exactly how dumpster delivery and pickup works, you can rent with confidence.

Contact Berks Transfer today to schedule your dumpster rental and experience hassle-free service you can count on.

Clearing the Air: New Vape Collection Programs Are Emerging

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 18:49:34 GMT

The vaping industry has evolved rapidly, introducing new devices, sleeker designs, and wider accessibility than ever before. However, with this growth comes responsibility. One of the biggest challenges facing the industry today is what happens to a vape after it is used. Both disposable and rechargeable vapes contain batteries, plastics, and electronic components that should not end up in landfills.

That’s where new vape collection programs come in—and they are quickly becoming a powerful tool for sustainability and regulatory compliance. In a previous blog , we highlighted a collection initiative launched by the Missouri Solid Waste Management District O in partnership with the Product Stewardship Institute. Since then, several similar programs have emerged across the country.

The Growing Need for Vape Collection Programs

Vapes are small, convenient, and widely used, but those same features make them easy to discard improperly. Many consumers are unaware that vapes are classified as hazardous waste due to the presence of nicotine in pods and lithium-ion batteries. These batteries pose a serious fire risk at landfills. In addition, heavy metals and toxic chemicals found in vapes and e-cigarettes can leach into soil and waterways.

As a result, governments, retailers, and environmentally conscious consumers are pushing for better solutions. Vape collection programs help address this gap by providing structured, safe, and responsible methods for collecting used devices and ensuring proper recycling or disposal.

Regulations surrounding vaping and waste management are tightening worldwide. Brands that adopt collection programs early are better positioned to adapt quickly and avoid future compliance challenges. More importantly, these initiatives help keep harmful materials out of the environment while demonstrating that the industry is taking accountability seriously.

Emerging Vape Collection Programs

To address this growing issue, the Missouri Solid Waste Management District O partnered with the Product Stewardship Institute to launch a vape waste collection program focused on the responsible disposal of vape products. Similar initiatives are now appearing nationwide:

New York has implemented an e-cigarette and vape collection pilot program to keep these devices out of the waste stream. The Center for Sustainable Materials Management (SUNY ESF) partnered with the Product Stewardship Institute and the New York State Office of Cannabis Management to educate the public. The program is operating in five communities and will run through August.
R.J. Reynolds Vapor Company launched two take-back programs for vapor products and pods. One program partners with Call2Recycle® to collect and manage vapor products, power units, and e-cigarettes. The second partners with g2 revolution® to collect vapor pods, tanks, and cartridges. Together, these programs provide adults with convenient and responsible drop-off options.
EACR, Inc. , based in Allentown, Pennsylvania, introduced a recycling program for vapes and e-cigarettes after recognizing the growing volume of vape waste encountered by organizations, including vape shops, schools, office buildings, and retail chains.
Citizens for a Safe and Clean Lake Superior received a grant from the Community Foundation of Marquette County (Michigan) to establish a vape collection program with five drop-off locations throughout the county.

Our Commitment to Responsible Waste Management

While Berks Transfer does not accept vape waste (as it is classified as hazardous material), we remain committed to responsible waste management. From residential cleanouts to commercial waste solutions, our team provides safe, efficient, and compliant disposal services for a wide range of non-hazardous materials.

Looking Ahead: Sustainability as the Standard

Vape collection programs are quickly becoming an industry expectation rather than an exception. As environmental awareness continues to grow, brands that fail to address post-use waste risk falling behind. These programs benefit everyone by protecting the environment, improving public safety, and supporting regulatory compliance.

A Look at Commercial Waste

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 16:28:51 GMT

When you run a business, waste management isn’t just a background task; it’s an essential part of keeping your operations safe, compliant, and efficient. Yet many organizations still aren’t entirely sure what commercial waste actually includes. Understanding this category is the first step toward managing it responsibly and choosing the right waste transfer station to support your goals.

Below, we break down what commercial waste is, the most common types you’ll encounter, and how a non-hazardous waste transfer station can help you stay compliant while simplifying your workflow.

What Is Commercial Waste?

Commercial waste is any waste generated by businesses, organizations, and institutions during their regular operations. Unlike residential waste—which comes from households—commercial waste is produced by:

Offices
Retail stores
Restaurants
Warehouses
Construction and renovation sites
Schools and universities
Medical offices
Industrial and manufacturing facilities

Commercial waste can range from everyday trash to bulky materials—but as long as it’s non-hazardous, it can be safely processed at a non-hazardous waste transfer station.

Types of Commercial Waste (Non-Hazardous)

Because every industry operates differently, commercial waste can take many forms. Common non-hazardous categories include:

1. General Solid Waste

Everyday refuse like packaging, paper, plastics, and food waste. This is the most common type of commercial waste.

2. Construction & Demolition (C & D) Debris

Materials from business construction or renovation projects, such as:

Wood
Drywall
Concrete
Bricks
Non-hazardous debris

3. Recyclable Materials

Businesses often produce large amounts of recyclables, including:

Cardboard
Metal
Glass
Certain plastics

Proper separation helps maximize recycling opportunities and reduce disposal costs.

4. Bulky Items

Furniture, palletized materials, fixtures, or equipment that is no longer needed but does not contain hazardous components or liquids.

5. Non-Hazardous Industrial Waste

Many manufacturing and light-industrial facilities generate solid, non-hazardous byproducts that require proper handling and disposal.

Why Proper Commercial Waste Management Matters

Properly managing commercial waste does more than keep operations running smoothly—it helps businesses demonstrate environmental responsibility. A well-run non-hazardous transfer station provides businesses with clear guidance, transparent pricing, and a safer, more compliant way to dispose of everyday waste. When your waste is handled correctly from the start, you reduce the risk of contamination, avoid potential violations, and protect your team as well as the surrounding community.

How a Non-Hazardous Waste Transfer Station Supports Your Business

A transfer station that specializes in non-hazardous waste is designed to make disposal simple and stress-free. Businesses benefit from:

Fast turnaround times for trucks, trailers, and fleet haulers
Convenient access for a wide range of vehicle sizes
Safe unloading areas built specifically for commercial loads
Transparent pricing for predictable budgeting
Efficient waste sorting to maximize recycling opportunities
Dumpster rentals with convenient delivery and pick up

Whether you’re dropping off debris from a renovation or hauling regular commercial refuse, partnering with a dedicated transfer station keeps everything running smoothly.

At Berks Transfer, our state-of-the-art facility is designed to handle up to 1,500 tons of waste per day, making us a leader in waste management. We also offer do-it-yourself drop off service and dumpster rentals.

Commercial waste includes a wide range of non-hazardous materials generated by businesses of all sizes. Understanding what falls into this category helps you stay compliant and protect your operations. If your company needs a dependable solution for non-hazardous commercial waste, a professional waste transfer station is your best partner for safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible disposal. Give Berks Transfer a call today to learn how we can make your commercial waste disposal easy and efficient!

Hazardous vs. Non-Hazardous Waste: What’s the Difference?

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 18:42:30 GMT

Hazardous vs. Non-Hazardous Waste: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to waste disposal, understanding what you’re bringing to a waste disposal facility isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Whether you’re a homeowner doing a cleanout or a contractor managing construction debris, knowing the difference between hazardou s and non-hazardous waste ensures your materials are handled safely, legally, and responsibly.

At Berks Transfer, we specialize in receiving non-hazardous waste from Reading, PA and surrounding communities. We do not accept hazardous waste because hazardous materials require specialized handling that only certified facilities can provide.

Let’s break down what makes waste hazardous, what qualifies as non-hazardous, and how you can dispose of both types properly.

What Is Hazardous Waste?

Hazardous waste is any material that poses a significant risk to human health or the environment. These wastes are regulated under strict federal and state guidelines and must be transported, stored, and disposed of by licensed professionals.

Hazardous waste usually falls into one of four categories:

1. Ignitable Waste

Items that can easily catch fire.
Examples include gasoline, solvents, oil-based paints, and flammable adhesives.

2. Corrosive Waste

Materials capable of deteriorating metal or damaging skin.
Examples include battery acid, strong cleaning chemicals, and industrial acids or bases.

3. Reactive Waste

Substances that may explode, react with water, or release toxic fumes.
Examples include old chemical containers, certain aerosols, and unstable compounds.

4. Toxic Waste

Materials containing harmful substances like lead, mercury, or pesticides.
Examples include fluorescent bulbs, certain electronics, and chemical-laden sludge.

These materials cannot be disposed of at Berks Transfer. They must go to a certified hazardous waste facility or a county-run collection event.

What Is Non-Hazardous Waste?

Non-hazardous waste includes everyday materials that do not pose an immediate threat to people or the environment when managed properly. This is the type of waste is generated daily by households, contractors, businesses, and municipalities.

Berks Transfer is fully equipped to accept and process a wide range of non-hazardous materials, including:

Common Non-Hazardous Waste Types

Construction and demolition debris (wood, drywall, tile, bricks)
Household junk and bulky items
Non-contaminated soil or dirt
Furniture and mattresses
Packaging materials
Yard waste
Commercial waste from offices, retail stores, and small businesses
Non-hazardous renovation debris

Why the Difference Matters

Understanding the difference between hazardous and non-hazardous waste is crucial for several reasons:

✔ Protects the Environment

Improper disposal of hazardous materials can leach toxins into soil and waterways.

✔ Keeps Workers and Residents Safe

Hazardous chemicals can cause burns, fires, explosions, or respiratory issues if mishandled.

✔ Ensures Legal Compliance

Federal and state laws strictly regulate hazardous waste. Bringing prohibited materials to the wrong facility can result in fines or penalties.

✔ Streamlines the Waste Disposal Process

Sorting waste correctly helps facilities like Berks Transfer operate efficiently and keep costs affordable for customers.

How to Dispose of Waste the Right Way

For Non-Hazardous Waste

Bring your acceptable materials directly to Berks Transfer. Our site is designed for fast drop-offs, easy access from major routes, and prompt service for homeowners, contractors, and local businesses.

For Hazardous Waste

Contact your local municipality or a licensed hazardous waste facility. Many counties offer designated hazardous waste collection events for residents.

Safe and Responsible Disposal

At Berks Transfer, we believe that proper waste management starts with education—and we’re here to make the process simple. By understanding the difference between hazardous and non-hazardous waste, you help protect the community, the environment, and the workers who handle your materials every day.

Berks Transfer proudly accepts non-hazardous waste and provides reliable, efficient service to residents and contractors across the region. If you’re unsure whether your material is acceptable, just give us a call.

Understanding Legacy Pollution

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 16:23:12 GMT

When we think about pollution, most of us picture overflowing landfills. But there’s another, often invisible threat lingering in communities across the country: legacy pollution. These are contaminants left behind from past industrial practices—long before environmental regulations were in place. And while we can’t undo history, we can take action to prevent new risks and protect our environment moving forward.

At Berks Transfer, we’re committed to doing our part. As a trusted waste transfer station serving Reading and the surrounding region, our mission is to help residents and businesses manage materials responsibly—without accepting hazardous waste, which should always be handled by certified specialists.

Let’s take a look at what legacy pollution means and how proper waste disposal makes a real difference.

What Is Legacy Pollution?

Legacy pollution stems from contaminants left behind by past industrial, agricultural, or commercial activities. These pollutants seeped into soil, groundwater, and local ecosystems long before environmental protections existed.

Common sources include:

Former manufacturing sites
Old waste dumps or burn pits
Abandoned factories
Mines and quarries
Fuel or chemical storage areas

Because these pollutants can remain in the environment for decades (or longer), they continue to pose risks to public health, natural habitats, and nearby communities.

Why Legacy Pollution Still Matters Today

Even though much of this contamination happened years ago, its effects are still felt today.

Environmental Risks

Toxins embedded in soil or groundwater can disrupt ecosystems, harm wildlife , and alter the natural environment.

Community Health Concerns

Some legacy pollutants (e.g., PFAS ) can become airborne or migrate into water sources.

Economic Impacts

Cleanup efforts often require extensive resources, and contaminated land can’t be used safely until remediation is complete.

This is why modern waste-handling practices are critical. Preventing today’s waste from becoming tomorrow’s legacy pollution is a responsibility shared by every community.

How Berks Transfer Helps Prevent New Pollution

Although we do not accept hazardous waste, Berks Transfer plays a key role in keeping the region safe and clean by ensuring proper handling, sorting, and transport of non-hazardous waste.

Here’s how:

✅ Responsible Waste Management

Every load we receive is processed with care to prevent materials from entering the environment where they don’t belong.

✅ Keeping Hazardous Waste Out of the System

By clearly prohibiting hazardous materials, we help protect workers, equipment, and the environment. This also ensures that dangerous items are routed to specialized facilities designed to handle them safely.

✅ Supporting a Cleaner, More Sustainable Community

Proper waste handling today means fewer risks tomorrow. We help residents and contractors reduce the chances of future contamination by providing a safe, accessible place to dispose of everyday non-hazardous materials.

What You Can Do to Prevent Future Pollution

Reducing tomorrow’s environmental risks starts with smart choices today. Here’s how individuals, contractors, and businesses can contribute:

Know the difference between hazardous and non-hazardous waste.
When in doubt, ask before you load.
Dispose of materials properly.
Bring acceptable, non-hazardous waste to Berks Transfer. For hazardous materials, contact a licensed hazardous waste facility or your local municipality.
Avoid illegal dumping.
Waste abandoned in wooded areas, fields, or waterways creates new sources of pollution.
Stay informed.
Environmental regulations and disposal guidelines evolve—keeping up matters.

A Cleaner Future Starts with Responsible Waste Handling

Legacy pollution reminds us that past actions can have long-lasting effects. But it also highlights an important opportunity: we can prevent the same mistakes from happening again.

Berks Transfer is proud to support our community with safe, reliable disposal services for non-hazardous waste. Together, we can build a cleaner, healthier future—one load at a time.

Vape Waste: A Growing Problem

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 19:37:05 GMT

When we throw things out, we never really take the time to look at what exactly it is we are throwing away. Many people may not know this, but improper disposal of vapes can cause major risks. Some of the risks of improper disposal of vapes are fires at waste facilities, toxic chemical leaks in soil and water, and plastic pollution.

The Harm of Vape Waste

According to Waste Advantage Magazine , vapes represent a complex and hazardous waste stream. A vape contains a “flavoring”, such as CBD and nicotine, a lithium-ion battery, non-biodegradable plastics, and toxic chemicals (e.g., formaldehyde). If vapes get discarded in the regular trash, they can spark fires in the waste facilities, leak harmful chemicals (e.g., mercury or lead), and release microplastics that persist indefinitely. Vape waste can also impact youth people, as well, due to an increase in litter around schools and areas where they gather.

Still Think Vape Waste Isn’t a Problem?

The U.S. PIRG Education Fund found that 5.7 disposable vapes were discarded per second in 2023 and have been increasing ever since. Research also revealed an estimated cost of at least $95 million each year was incurred from fires in waste facilities caused by the disposal of vapes.

A Safe Disposal Plan

The Missouri Solid Waste Management District O and the Product Stewardship Institute came together to start a vape waste program to collect and responsibly dispose of vape waste. To make it safe and convenient for everyone, the program consists of installing free collection boxes in vape shops or businesses that sell vapes. It’s an easy way to collect them for proper disposal, much like the collection boxes for plastic bags in retail stores. These residents can drop off:

● Disposable and Rechargeable Vape Devices (with or without batteries)

● Pods and Cartridges

● E-Liquid Containers (sealed)

○ No THC Products will be Accepted

Coming Together to Reduce Vape Waste

Proper vape disposal isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a community responsibility. By participating in a local vape waste program, residents can help prevent fires, protect natural resources, and keep harmful materials out of our environment. Every small action makes a difference when it comes to creating safer, cleaner communities.

While Berks Transfer does not accept vape waste (as it is considered hazardous waste), we remain committed to responsible waste management. From residential cleanouts to commercial waste solutions, our team provides safe, efficient, and compliant disposal services for a wide range of non-hazardous materials. Together, we can make a positive impact—one responsible disposal at a time.

Fires at Recycling Facilities: A Growing Crisis in Waste Management

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 14:20:39 GMT

From smartphones and laptops to toys and even greeting cards, lithium-ion batteries are everywhere. But when these batteries are disposed of incorrectly, they can turn waste and recycling facilities into dangerous fire zones.

According to the National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) and Resource Recycling Systems (RRS), over 5,000 fires occur at waste and recycling facilities across the U.S. every year — and lithium-ion batteries are a leading cause.

The Rising Risk: Lithium-Ion Batteries in the Waste Stream

Once compromised — by puncture, crushing, or impact — they can ignite or explode, setting off fires that spread quickly through flammable materials like paper, cardboard, and plastics.

A Dangerous Turning Point

The year 2022 marked a record high in fire-related incidents at waste facilities. The impact reaches far beyond property damage:

Worker safety is at risk
Downtime can cost thousands per hour
Community trust and reputation suffer
Environmental damage from toxic smoke and runoff

Traditional fire prevention systems alone are no longer enough. Waste facilities need smarter, faster detection methods to stop hazards before they escalate. However, getting the word out about their danger to waste and recycling facilities needs to be first step in combating the issue.

Getting the Word Out

To amplify public awareness of this growing issue, the National Waste & Recycling Foundation (NWRF) launched the national “Skip the Bin, Turn Your Batteries In!” campaign. This collaborative effort not only unites haulers and municipalities, but also manufacturers, retailers, and sustainability advocates to promote easy and safe disposal options.

Even the U.S. Forest Service has joined the cause, bringing in its famous Woodsy the Owl to educate younger audiences with a modern message about responsible disposal. Since these batteries are small and easily forgotten, frequent reminders are key to changing behavior — and preventing fires.

Rethinking Battery Disposal

While education is vital, it’s convenience that drives real change. To make safe disposal second nature, communities can establish clearly marked battery drop-off points in accessible locations, just as there are drop-off points for recycling plastic bags (e.g., retail and grocery stores). These battery drop-off points can be in municipal buildings, fire and police stations, and even grocery stores.

When safe disposal bins are visible and easy to access, proper recycling becomes a simple part of daily life. Technology can also reduce the number of lithium-ion battery-related fires at waste and recycling facilities.

A Game-Changer: AI-Powered X-Ray Detection Technology

The industry’s most promising innovation may lie in AI-enabled x-ray detection systems — a proactive solution designed to identify and remove danger in real time.

Unlike standard cameras or manual inspections, AI-powered x-ray systems can:

✅ Scan mixed waste streams in real time
✅ Detect high-risk items like lithium-ion batteries
✅ Flag and classify hazardous materials
✅ Enable early removal before sorting or processing begins

By integrating this technology into recycling lines, facilities can spot threats before they ignite, improving safety, reducing costly shutdowns, and minimizing insurance claims — all while enhancing operational efficiency.

Turning a Crisis into an Opportunity

Fires sparked by lithium-ion batteries have become a daily risk. But with new technologies, smarter public outreach, and stronger collaboration, the waste and recycling industry can turn this challenge into an opportunity for innovation, safety, and sustainability.

Editor's Note: This blog was originally published on May 19, 2025. It has been updated with new information on the issue of lithium-ion battery-related fires.

Safely Dispose of Hazardous Waste at the Berks County Cleanup Event

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 12:51:10 GMT

When most of us think of hazardous waste, we imagine the classic yellow 55-gallon drum with the black toxic symbol from TV or movies. But hazardous waste isn’t just something we see on the big screen—it’s much closer to home. In fact, many everyday products found in our houses, garages, offices, and businesses are considered hazardous.

So, what exactly is hazardous waste? It’s any product labeled as toxic, flammable, explosive , corrosive, or volatile—sometimes even marked with a skull and crossbones or other warning labels. Common examples include cleaning supplies, lithium batteries, pesticides, solvents, car fluids, and furniture stains. While these products serve important purposes, they must be disposed of properly. Hazardous waste can’t just be left out at the curb with your weekly trash pickup. That’s where the Berks County Solid Waste Authority steps in.

Protecting Berks County

Formed in 1992 by the Berks County Commissioners, the Berks County Solid Waste Authority is dedicated to protecting residents’ health and the environment. Part of their mission includes providing safe and convenient ways to manage hazardous waste.

One of the most important programs is the Household Hazardous Waste Cleanup Event —a chance for residents to safely clear out toxic products from their homes and businesses.

This event will take place on October 18, 2025, at the Berks County Agricultural Center from 8 AM to noon . This is a safe and easy way to get rid of the hazardous waste products in your home or business. The event is for Berks County residents ONLY and you must pre-register for it.

What Hazardous Waste Can You Bring?

The event accepts a wide range of materials, including:

Floor & Furniture Polish
Antifreeze
Pool chemicals
Lithium & NiCad batteries
Fluorescent bulbs

Accepted Paint Products:

Oil-based paints
Turpentine
Wood preservatives
Paint thinners & solvents
Varnishes & stains

Please Note: Latex, water-based, and acrylic paints are not accepted.

How to Safely Prepare Paint for Disposal

If you’re getting rid of paint, here’s how to ensure its properly prepared:

Less than 1 inch of paint in the can: Remove the lid and air dry.
More than 1 inch of paint: Mix with cat litter until solidified.

Once dried, remove the lid and place the can in your regular trash. Do not remove the dried paint from the can.

The Easy & Safe Clean Out

Please bring your hazardous waste products in their original labeled containers (tightly sealed) and put them in the trunk of your vehicle. If not in the original labeled containers, please label the containers used. Those working at the event will unload your car for you.

We hope you take part in this event! It’s a great way to clean out your home or business and to properly dispose of these products. When it comes to non-hazardous, large items such as furniture, rugs, and mattresses, Berks Transfer has you covered with our Do-It-Yourself Drop Off Service .

Don’t let hazardous waste pile up in your garage or basement. Take advantage of the Berks County Household Hazardous Waste Cleanup Event and do your part to keep our community safe and clean.

Why Fall Is the Best Time to Rent a Dumpster

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 12:56:52 GMT

As the temperatures cool and the leaves begin to change, many homeowners and contractors are gearing up for seasonal cleanups, home improvement projects, and last-minute outdoor renovations. But here’s something many don’t realize — fall is actually the perfect time to rent a dumpster.

1. Fall Cleanup Season Is in Full Swing

Autumn brings a natural wave of debris — from falling leaves and dead branches to garden waste and storm cleanup. Instead of bagging endless piles of yard waste or cramming everything into your weekly trash pickup, a dumpster rental can help you manage everything in one go.

Common fall debris includes:

Leaves, twigs, and branches
Old garden materials
Outdoor furniture you no longer need
Landscaping waste

2. The Perfect Time for Home Decluttering

With the holidays around the corner, fall is a great time to declutter your home and make space before friends and family come to visit. Whether you're cleaning out closets, organizing your basement, or tackling the garage, a dumpster rental makes it easy to toss unwanted items without multiple trips to the dump.

Great items to toss in a fall dumpster:

Old furniture or broken appliances
Toys, boxes, and outdated electronics
Holiday decorations you no longer use
General junk or storage clutter

3. Fall Is Ideal for Outdoor Projects and Renovations

Before winter weather sets in, many homeowners and contractors are wrapping up:

Roofing jobs
Siding replacements
Deck or fence removals
Kitchen and bathroom remodels

All of these projects generate waste — a dumpster rental keeps your site clean, safe, and organized. Don’t wait until the first sign of snowflakes. Get your project done efficiently with a dumpster ready for debris removal.

4. Fire Hazard Prevention

Dry leaves and debris can become serious fire hazards — especially if you’re using fire pits or wood-burning stoves in the fall. Renting a dumpster helps you quickly clear out dry yard waste and reduce the risk of accidental fires.

5. Dumpster Availability and Flexible Scheduling

Summer is the busiest season for dumpster rentals, but fall offers more availability, better scheduling flexibility, and potentially even lower wait times.

When you rent in the fall:

You get your ideal dumpster size, when you need it
You avoid the spring and summer rental rush
You have time to prep your property before winter weather

Berks Transfer offers quick delivery, easy pickup, and no hidden fees — making fall dumpster rental even more convenient.

6. Fall is the Season of Letting Go

There’s something symbolic (and practical) about using fall to let go of the old and prepare for the new. Whether it’s unwanted clutter, home improvement waste, or old landscaping materials, now is the time to get rid of what you don’t need — and start fresh before winter.

Ready to Book Your Fall Dumpster?

At Berks Transfer, we’ve helped thousands of customers in Berks County and surrounding areas simplify their cleanup efforts with reliable, affordable dumpster rentals. We’re not just another dumpster company — we’re your neighbors, and we care about keeping our communities clean, safe, and beautiful.

Whether you’re cleaning up your yard or remodeling your kitchen before winter, we’re here to make fall projects easier than ever. Contact us today to schedule your dumpster!

A Look at Organic Waste: What It Is and Why Proper Disposal Matters

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 20:33:05 GMT

Organic waste is one of the most common — and often misunderstood — types of waste generated by households, businesses, and agricultural operations. But managing it properly is critical for the health of our environment and the efficiency of waste disposal systems.

What Is Organic Waste?

Why Is Organic Waste Important?

When managed properly, organic waste can be recycled into valuable resources like compost or bioenergy. But when it’s not handled correctly, it can create serious problems.

Problems caused by improper organic waste disposal:

Greenhouse gas emissions : Organic waste in landfills breaks down without oxygen, producing methane — a powerful greenhouse gas.
Odor and pest issues : Decomposing organic waste can attract insects, rodents, and create strong smells.
Wasted resources : Food and yard waste have value. When sent to landfill, we lose the opportunity to recover nutrients and energy.

How to Properly Dispose of Organic Waste

3. Partner with Commercial Composters

For businesses and farms generating large volumes of organic waste, partnering with licensed composting or anaerobic digestion facilities is a smart, sustainable solution.

Proper management of organic waste isn’t just about reducing trash — it’s about unlocking valuable resources, protecting the environment, and creating a cleaner, more sustainable future. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or part of the agricultural community, choosing the right disposal methods makes a measurable impact.

Why Dumpster Rentals Are a Smart Move During Hurricane Season

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 20:08:11 GMT

Hurricane season is here and communities along the coast brace for potential storms, flooding, and wind damage. Homeowners and businesses often focus on emergency preparedness—boarding windows, stocking up on supplies, and securing insurance. But there’s another crucial part of storm readiness that’s often overlooked: waste management.

Enter the dumpster rental. Whether you're preparing for a major storm or dealing with the aftermath, having a dumpster on hand can simplify storm debris removal, speed up cleanup, and keep your property safe and organized.

Why Hurricanes Create Massive Waste Challenges

After a hurricane, communities are left with a mix of fallen trees, damaged roofing, ruined furniture, soaked drywall, and general debris. Local waste services are often overwhelmed, with pickup delayed for days or even weeks. This leaves homeowners and business owners stuck with unsightly and potentially hazardous piles of debris.

That’s where renting a dumpster makes a huge difference.

Benefits of Renting a Dumpster During Hurricane Season

✅ 1. Efficient Cleanup After the Storm

A roll-off dumpster rental allows you to quickly dispose of branches, roofing shingles, flooring, furniture, and other storm-damaged materials. You don’t have to wait on municipal services or make multiple trips to the landfill.

✅ 2. Improves Safety

Piles of debris can become breeding grounds for pests, mold, and even pose fire risks. A dumpster helps keep your yard or construction site clean and safe by containing waste in one central location.

✅ 3. Ideal for Pre-Storm Preparation

Many property owners take proactive steps like trimming trees, removing loose fencing, or cleaning out garages before a hurricane hits. Renting a dumpster before the storm makes preparation faster and cleaner, giving you peace of mind.

✅ 4. Custom Sizes for Every Job

From small residential cleanups to large-scale commercial restorations, dumpsters come in a variety of sizes. That means there's a solution for every project, no matter the scale of the storm's impact. At Berks Transfer , we offer 12, 20, 30 and 40-yard dumpsters with easy delivery and pick up.

What Can You Put in a Dumpster After a Hurricane?

Dumpsters are perfect for most non-hazardous storm debris, including:

Tree limbs and yard waste
Roofing materials and siding
Flood-damaged furniture and carpet
Broken drywall and construction debris

Note: Items like paint, gasoline, batteries, or appliances containing freon are restricted.

Partner With a Reliable Dumpster Company

Choosing a trustworthy dumpster rental company can make all the difference. Look for:

Fast delivery & pickup
Transparent pricing
Responsive customer service
Flexible rental terms for disaster recovery

Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or property manager, having a plan in place for hurricane season cleanup is key and a dumpster rental should be part of that plan.

Be Ready for Any Storm

When hurricanes strike, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. But with the right tools, like a dependable dumpster rental, you can reclaim your space faster and get back on your feet. Berks Transfer is always ready to get you the dumpster you need. Count on us for reliable and affordable dumpster rentals – no matter the season!

Using Dumpsters at Events: A Smart Waste Management Solution

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 20:49:54 GMT

Using Dumpsters at Events: A Smart Waste Management Solution

Here at Berks Transfer, we specialize in the disposal of construction and demolition debris, municipal solid waste , and residual waste. We offer a variety of services tailored to your waste disposal needs, including Do-It-Yourself disposal and dumpster rentals.

While the Do-It-Yourself disposal service is a great option for quick and convenient junk and trash drop-offs, dumpsters are very convenient and scalable solutions for big projects and renovations. They are a game-changer when it comes to home renovations, office cleanouts, construction and demolition projects, and storm or fire damage cleanups. Yet, many overlook dumpsters for event waste management.

What Can Dumpsters Do for Events?

Whether it’s a concert, sporting event, festival, or fair, these events require a dumpster to efficiently dispose of the waste. Fairs can generate a significant amount of waste, including food and beverages, paper and cardboard, and plastic. Without a proper disposal method, the waste can quickly pile up and become a safety issue.

There are many advantages to having a dumpster at your event. Some of them are:

● Keeps the event area clean and organized

● Improves safety for guests and staff

● Streamlines clean up

● Very cost-effective and scalable solution

This year, Berks Transfer provided a dumpster at the Berks County Fair . We were honored to provide one of our dumpsters at the event, ensuring the fairground free of trash. With our experience and knowledge, we helped the organizers choose the right dumpster size and schedule for their unique needs.

Renting a Dumpster for an Event

Renting a dumpster is easy, and you have control over your dumpster rental experience. With us, you can determine when your dumpster will be delivered to your location and when it will be picked up. One size does not fit all; hence, we offer a variety of waste container sizes to meet your specific needs:

● 12-Cubic-Yard Roll-off

● 20-Cubic-Yard Roll-off

● 30-Cubic-Yard Roll-off

● 40-Cubic-Yard Roll-off

The size of the event determines the size you should get. If your event is as big as the Berks County Fair, the larger dumpster (e.g., 40-yard) might be what you need. If your event is a small town festival, a smaller-sized dumpster (e.g., 12-yard) might be what you need instead.

Having a designated container for your junk and debris ensures a safe and secure disposal, without worrying whether your local trash provider will accept your waste. The same can be said for big events. You can count on them to provide a safe and affordable solution for trash collection at any event. Curious about using one of our dumpsters at your next event or project? Contact us today for more information!

How Lithium-Ion Batteries Are Fueling Fires at Recycling Facilities—and the Technology That Could Stop Them

Mon, 19 May 2025 16:04:36 GMT

Source: Detroit Free Press

Fires at Recycling Facilities: A Growing Crisis in Waste Management

The waste and recycling industry plays a vital role in maintaining public health and environmental sustainability. Yet, it's facing a growing challenge that threatens both operational efficiency and safety: fires sparked by improperly discarded lithium-ion batteries.

From smartphones and laptops to toys and even greeting cards, lithium-ion batteries are everywhere—and when disposed of incorrectly, they can turn waste facilities into fire hazards. In fact, according to the National Waste & Recycling Association ( NWRA) and Resource Recycling Systems (RRS), there are an estimated 5,000 fires at waste and recycling facilities in the U.S. every year.

The Rising Risk: Lithium-Ion Batteries in the Waste Stream

One of the biggest challenges in modern recycling operations is the increasing presence of lithium-ion batteries in everyday waste.

While these batteries are safe when used correctly, they become dangerous when:

Thrown in household trash or recycling bins
Damaged during transport or sorting
Exposed to heat or pressure inside waste piles

Once compromised—by a puncture, impact, or compression—lithium-ion batteries can ignite or explode, setting off fires that spread rapidly through flammable materials like paper, cardboard, and plastics.

2022: A Dangerous Turning Point

The year 2022 marked a record high in fire-related incidents at waste facilities. For facility operators, the consequences go far beyond property damage:

Worker safety is at risk
Downtime can cost thousands of dollars per hour
Reputational harm impacts community trust
Environmental damage from toxic smoke and runoff

It's clear that traditional safety systems aren’t enough. Waste facilities need a smarter, faster way to detect and address hazards before they escalate.

A Game-Changer: AI-Powered X-Ray Detection Technology

Fortunately, the industry may have found its most powerful tool yet in the fight against waste facility fires: AI-enabled x-ray detection systems.

Unlike standard cameras or manual inspections, these intelligent systems can:

Scan waste in real-time
Identify high-risk items like lithium-ion batteries
Classify and flag hazardous materials
Support proactive removal before sorting or processing begins

By integrating AI-driven x-ray systems into waste and recycling lines, facilities gain the ability to spot danger before it turns into disaster. This technology not only enhances safety but also supports operational efficiency, reducing costly shutdowns and insurance claims.

Fires at waste facilities caused by lithium-ion batteries are no longer rare—they're a daily risk. But with new technologies like AI-powered x-ray detection systems, the industry is poised to transform a crisis into an opportunity for innovation, safety, and sustainability.

What is Solidification in Waste Management?

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 14:48:05 GMT

Waste management is a critical component of environmental sustainability, public health, and regulatory compliance. Among the many techniques used to treat and handle waste, solidification has emerged as a highly effective method for managing non-hazardous materials. But what exactly is solidification, and why is it so important in waste treatment?

In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of the solidification process in waste management, explore its benefits, and environmental professionals are increasingly turning to this method to handle complex waste streams.

What Is Solidification in Waste Management?

Solidification is a physical process used to convert liquid or semi-liquid waste into a solid, stable mass. The goal is not necessarily to detoxify the waste, but to reduce its mobility, prevent leaching, and make it safer to handle, transport and dispose.

This is typically achieved by adding binding agents such as cement, lime, fly ash, or proprietary chemical blends that interact with the waste material, forming a solid matrix. It’s important to manage the moisture to achieve the right consistency. Also, the final product must remain stable over time without significant swelling or shrinking.

Common types of liquid waste that are solidified include brine waste, car wash cleanout, catch basin grit, grease trap waste, process sludges and tank cleanouts. At our transfer station, common liquid wastes include drainage water, oily wastewater, and ground water.

Benefits of Solidification in Waste Management

Implementing solidification offers several critical advantages:

1. Minimizes Environmental Risk

By immobilizing hazardous constituents, solidification prevents contaminants from leaching into groundwater or escaping into the air. This is especially vital when dealing with heavy metals, sludges, or industrial byproducts.

2. Enhances Safety in Handling

Solid waste is generally safer and easier to handle than liquid or semi-liquid waste. It’s less likely to spill, splash, or react with surrounding materials.

3. Improves Waste Disposal Options

Solidified waste can often be disposed of in approved landfills, particularly non-hazardous landfills if the solidification process sufficiently stabilizes the material and meets regulatory standards. Once solidified, our team transports the solid waste to an approved landfill.

4. Cost-Effective Solution

Solidification can reduce transportation and disposal costs by converting bulky or difficult-to-manage waste into a more compact and manageable form.

Regulatory Compliance and Standards

Solidification must meet local, state, and federal regulations—particularly EPA guidelines for hazardous waste treatment. Tests like the TCLP (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure) are used to determine if the treated waste can be classified as non-hazardous. At Berks Transfer, a certified employee tests the materials before they are emptied into one of our three 12,000-gallon solidification pits to ensure they are safe to be solidified and compliant.

As the pressure to manage waste safely and sustainably grows, solidification continues to prove itself as a practical and powerful method in the waste management toolkit. It provides a cost-effective, compliant, and environmentally responsible path forward. At Berks Transfer, you can count on safe, affordable solidification of non-hazardous waste, and we prepare it for transportation and disposal. Contact us today to learn more!

Berks Transfer Shines at the Home Run Building and Trade Expo

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 16:43:37 GMT

Berks Transfer proudly attended the Home Building Association of Berks County 's Home Run Building and Trade Expo held at the Redner's Center in FirstEnergy Stadium, Reading, PA, from March 14-16th. This year’s event proved to be a fantastic opportunity for local businesses, contractors, and homeowners alike to gather valuable insights and make meaningful connections within the home improvement industry.

A Star-Studded Event with Dr. Lori

One of the highlights of the expo was the presence of Dr. Lori, the renowned antiques appraiser from The Curse of Oak Island on the History Channel . Dr. Lori also stars in the brand-new Pawn Stars Do America series and Netflix's The King of Collectables. Attendees had the unique opportunity to hear Dr. Lori share her expert insights on collectibles, adding a touch of excitement and expertise to the event. Her engaging presentation was a real draw for many of the attendees who are passionate about antiques and historical treasures.

Berks Transfer Educates Attendees on the Benefits of Dumpster Rentals

Bill Piszczek from Berks Transfer and Empire Group ’s Ellen Ganime were at the expo to provide valuable information on the many benefits of renting dumpsters for home improvement projects as well as the other services offered. Whether it’s a major renovation or a simple spring cleaning, Berks Transfer offers convenient dumpster rental solutions to help homeowners and contractors manage waste efficiently. With a variety of dumpster sizes and flexible rental options, Berks Transfer stands as a trusted local resource for waste management services in Berks County.

Exciting Giveaways and Vendor Showcase

In addition to informative presentations, the event featured a vibrant vendor showcase. From landscaping services to window installation, numerous local businesses displayed their products and services to attendees. The show was an excellent opportunity to explore a wide range of services that can enhance any home improvement or construction project.

The excitement didn’t stop there. The winner of the Empire Group swag bag was Duane Bialek from ABBI Co., Inc., an electrical contractor from Reading, PA. The bag contained a 20% rental voucher, an Empire Group hoodie, a Berks Transfer t-shirt as well as other shirts and items from Empire Group and its affiliates. Congratulations Duane!

Looking Ahead: The Future of Home Building and Renovation

The Home Run Building and Trade Expo was a tremendous success, and Berks Transfer is proud to have been a part of it. This event provided valuable opportunities for local businesses to connect with their communities and showcase the latest services and solutions in the home building and renovation industry. Berks Transfer remains committed to offering top-notch dumpster rental services for any size project, making waste disposal simple and efficient for everyone. We look forward to next year's expo!

Why Crushed Concrete is the Smart, Sustainable Choice for Your Projects

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 20:47:19 GMT

When it comes to construction and landscaping, finding materials that are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly can be a challenge. And there are a lot of products on the market. But there’s one material that checks all the boxes: crushed concrete. Whether you’re working on a driveway, patio, sidewalk, or drainage project, crushed concrete is a versatile and eco-conscious option that can save you money while benefiting the environment.

What is Crushed Concrete?

Crushed concrete is exactly what it sounds like: concrete that has been recycled from demolished structures, sidewalks, or driveways. Instead of sending this material to the landfill, it’s collected, cleaned, and processed into crushed aggregates that can be reused in a variety of construction and landscaping projects.

But crushed concrete isn’t just good for the environment—it’s also incredibly versatile and affordable. Let’s explore the some of the uses and benefits of this sustainable material.

The Top Five Uses of Crushed Concrete

Crushed concrete can be used in a wide range of applications, making it a go-to option for both residential and commercial projects. Here are the top five ways crushed concrete is put to work:

Driveways and Pathways
Crushed concrete is an excellent choice for creating a solid, durable surface for driveways, walkways, or pathways. Its rough texture helps with stability, reducing the need for additional gravel or asphalt.
Clean Fill
If you need to fill in low spots on your property or level out an area, crushed concrete makes an ideal, cost-effective fill material. It’s stable, reliable, and won’t settle or shift over time.
Sidewalks and Patios
Using crushed concrete for sidewalks or patios can give you the look of stone without the high cost. It also provides a solid base that’s perfect for long-lasting surfaces.
Retaining Walls and Foundations
Crushed concrete can be molded into blocks for foundation walls or used as part of a retaining wall structure. It provides solid support and structural integrity while reducing construction costs.
Filling, Grading, and Stabilizing
Crushed concrete is also useful for grading uneven areas, stabilizing surfaces, or filling voids. It’s especially beneficial for construction projects where soil stabilization is needed.

Sustainable, Affordable, and Versatile

Crushed concrete is a win-win solution for both your wallet and the environment. Its wide range of uses in construction and landscaping projects makes it a versatile choice, and its sustainable nature ensures that you’re doing your part to reduce waste and conserve natural resources.

Empire Group's Annual Fishing Rodeo and Picnic

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 20:28:14 GMT

As fall approaches, employees of Empire Group eagerly look forward to the Annual Fishing Rodeo and Picnic—and this year certainly delivered! Held on Saturday, October 12th, at the scenic farm of Todd and Karen O’Neill, the event was a tremendous success.

A Perfect Day for Fishing

Family Fun and Animal Encounters

Delicious Food and Exciting Prizes

Building Community Connections

A New Spot for National Night Out

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 19:06:15 GMT

It was a special year for Northern Berk County National Night Out! The event was held at a new venue – the Berks County Fairgrounds in Leesport. Each vendor had plenty of space for their vehicles and tables, a welcome change from last year's crowded setup at Schuylkill Valley High School.

A New Gathering

It was exciting to see employees from DVC, Empire Group, and Berks Transfer all together at the event. DVC's Russ Oswalt and Jimmy Blatt, along with Empire Group’s Ellen Ganime and Berks Transfer’s Karen O'Neill, Lauren Bohning, and Mitzi Cote, distributed fun giveaways, including police SUV stress relievers, small toys, bracelets, sunglasses, and snacks. Despite the cloudy weather and a rescheduled date, everyone had a great time.

National Night Out: A Nationwide Celebration

National Night Out takes place on the first Tuesday of August in most states, with some opting for an October date. Founded in 1984 by Matt Peskin, who also established the National Association of Town Watch, this event has grown significantly over the past 40 years. It fosters connections between police departments and communities through activities, music, and food. Last year, nearly 40 million people attended National Night Out events across nearly 20,000 communitie s from all 50 states.

An Exciting Vendor Lineup

The Berks County Fairgrounds showcased 80 vendors this year, and we anticipate even more participation next year. Empire Group was proud to be among a diverse group of vendors, including local businesses, first responders, and non-profit organizations. The variety was impressive, featuring everything from insurance companies to car dealerships, and healthcare providers to restaurants. New vendors like Spitler’s Towing, HNL Lab Medicine, and Blinds To Go added to the fun atmosphere. Attendees enjoyed delicious food options, from pizza to popcorn, while engaging in games and exploring a variety of vehicles, including a Tesla Cybertruck and two helicopters.

A Spectacular Ending

DVC showcased their tri-axle dump truck, while Berks Transfer displayed their roll-off truck with a dumpster. The evening concluded with brilliant fireworks, leaving everyone in high spirits.

At Empire Group , we search for ways to enrich our community. Like National Night Out, we strive to connect with our neighbors. Our employees had a blast at the event and look forward to National Night Out 2025. We hope to see you next year!

How Hurricanes and Other Severe Weather Affect Dumpsters

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 18:43:13 GMT

Rust and Corrosion

One of the most persistent weather-related issues for dumpsters is rust and corrosion. Made primarily of steel, dumpsters are vulnerable to oxidation when exposed to moisture and oxygen. Rain, snow, and high humidity can accelerate rust formation, compromising the dumpster's structural integrity and potentially leading to leaks or collapse.

Heat and Moisture

Dumpsters often contain organic waste that can produce unpleasant odors when exposed to heat and moisture. High temperatures and humidity, common during summer, can speed up the decomposition of organic matter, intensifying odors and fostering mold and bacteria growth, which poses health risks. Also, dumpsters sitting in hot temperatures can elevate the surface temperature and may cause burns.

Snow and Ice

In the northeast, snow and ice present specific challenges for dumpsters. Accumulated snow and ice can block access to dumpsters and strain their structure, potentially causing damage. When filled with snow and/or ice, the inside of a dumpster may need to cleared.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Heavy rain and severe storms can disrupt dumpster usage and waste management operations. Rainwater can fill dumpsters, making them heavier and more difficult to empty. Strong winds can knock over or move dumpsters, creating safety hazards and littering the surrounding area with waste.

Hurricanes and Dumpsters

Hurricanes, with their powerful winds and heavy rainfall, can cause significant damage to dumpsters. The impacts of hurricanes include:

Severe Physical Damage: High winds can overturn, crush, or displace dumpsters, leading to potential structural damage and creating hazards.
Flooding: Heavy rainfall can cause floodwaters to fill dumpsters, making them heavier and harder to manage.
Safety Hazards: Displaced or damaged dumpsters can obstruct access and create debris risks.

Weather, including hurricanes, plays a significant role in the condition and functionality of dumpsters. From rust and corrosion to operational disruptions and severe physical damage, understanding these impacts and implementing proactive measures is essential for maintaining dumpster effectiveness and safety. At Berks Transfer, we strive to make sure our dumpsters are in top shape for your project -- no matter the time of year!

Electric Trash Trucks…It’s a thing

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 19:47:44 GMT

Source: macktrucks.com

The Rise of All-Electric Garbage Trucks: A 2024 Update

In 2014, when the first all-electric garbage truck hit the streets in Chicago, it seemed like something out of a futuristic cartoon like The Jetsons. Fast forward to 2024, and electric garbage trucks are no longer just a novelty—they’re a growing part of municipal fleets across the U.S. In fact, by 2023, the number of zero-emission garbage trucks had increased to 48, and this year, several states are rolling out their own electric fleets.

A Game-Changer for Waste Management

The transition from diesel-powered garbage trucks to all-electric models is revolutionizing the waste management industry. And the benefits are clear. These electric trucks are not only cleaner and more eco-friendly, but they also offer significant cost savings for municipalities. According to experts, electric trucks can save cities tens of thousands of dollars annually on fuel, oil, and maintenance costs.

Zero-Emission Trucks Are Taking Over

What once seemed like an impossible task is now a reality. All-electric garbage trucks are becoming more common across the U.S., and many states are receiving these trucks through grant programs. For example, Pennsylvania is using funds from the Volkswagen emissions scandal settlement to bring electric garbage trucks to 16 communities. This is part of a larger $39.6 million investment aimed at reducing air pollution and transitioning to greener transportation options.

Truck manufacturers like Battle Motors, OshKosh Corporation, Mack Trucks, and Heil are all in on the electric garbage truck trend. These companies are building powerful and efficient electric trucks designed to withstand the demands of waste collection. As a result, the landscape of waste management is changing rapidly, with electric trucks expected to replace traditional diesel models in the coming years.

Why Electric Garbage Trucks Make Sense

Think of it as George Jetson meets Roc, the cool trash collector from the TV show. Sure, an electric garbage truck might not have the same level of glamour as a Tesla, but in terms of practicality and long-term benefits, it’s a game-changer for municipalities and waste management companies alike.

The first electric trash truck to be deployed in the U.S. was introduced in 2014 by Motiv Power Systems . Motiv is a key player in electric vehicle (EV) technology, and their designs power electric vehicles for companies like UPS, the U.S. Postal Service, and Bimbo Bakery. Since then, the industry has grown rapidly, with more cities and states seeing the potential for these vehicles to reduce emissions and lower operational costs.

The History Behind Electric Vehicles

While electric garbage trucks may seem like a new concept, electric vehicles themselves have a much longer history. In fact, the first electric vehicle (EV) dates back over 190 years! In the 1830s, Scottish inventor Robert Anderson created a battery-operated, motorized carriage. Just a few years later, another Scot, Robert Davidson, built the first electric locomotive.

So, while electric cars like the Tesla Model S may seem cutting-edge today, the basic concept of electric-powered transportation has been around for almost two centuries. The real challenge has always been affordability and practicality, which is why it’s taken so long for electric vehicles to gain widespread adoption.

The High Cost and Big Savings of Electric Garbage Trucks

One of the biggest hurdles for electric garbage trucks is the upfront cost. Take Mack Trucks’ LR Electric refuse model, for example. At around $500,000, it’s nearly double the price of a traditional diesel-powered garbage truck. However, municipalities that make the switch to electric can expect substantial savings in other areas, particularly in fuel and maintenance. A typical waste management company can spend over $40,000 annually on fuel alone for a diesel truck. Switching to an electric truck can eliminate those fuel costs entirely, providing significant savings over time.

Electric trucks also come with lower maintenance expenses. They have fewer moving parts than diesel trucks, which means there’s less that can go wrong. Maintenance routines are simplified, and labor costs decrease as a result of less downtime and fewer repairs.

The Future of Electric Garbage Trucks

While the price point may still be a barrier for many municipalities, the growing popularity of electric and hybrid vehicles across various industries suggests that electric garbage trucks may soon become more affordable. The trend toward electric transportation is already well underway, with electric buses, school buses, and even personal vehicles seeing huge increases in sales. In fact, the sale of electric and hybrid vehicles increased by 81% in 2018 over 2017 .

GM, for instance, is planning to introduce 20 new electric-hybrid models by 2023. The momentum in the commercial vehicle space is starting to follow suit, and it’s likely that we’ll see similar growth in the adoption of electric garbage trucks as their technology becomes more refined and costs continue to drop.

As we move into 2024, the shift toward electric garbage trucks is gaining traction across the U.S., driven by both environmental goals and long-term cost savings. With significant support from state governments, grant programs, and manufacturers like Mack and OshKosh, electric garbage trucks are poised to replace diesel-powered models in many cities.

Though it may still be a while before we see an entirely electric waste management fleet nationwide, the early adopters are already reaping the rewards. And with growing momentum in the EV space, it’s only a matter of time before electric garbage trucks become the standard in waste management.

Editor's Note: This blog was originally published on May 7, 2021. It has been updated with the latest developments in the electric garbage truck industry as of 2024.

A Brief Look at the Origins of Municipal Trash Collection

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 20:49:25 GMT

Credit: Collectorsweekly.com

We see trash trucks every day and don’t think twice about them. Yet, without them, city streets and neighborhoods would become inundated with trash. There would be no recycling at the curb. Since Berks Transfer celebrated Global Garbage Man Day on June 17th, we thought it fitting to take a look at the concept of organized municipal trash collection.

Early Challenges and Solutions

Before the advent of organized waste management systems, cities faced significant challenges with waste disposal. Early urban centers often dealt with waste by dumping it into rivers, streets, or open spaces, which led to unsanitary conditions and health hazards. In medieval Europe, for instance, residents would throw their waste out of windows, creating sanitation issues within city walls.

Emergence of Public Health Concerns

During the Industrial Revolution, waste disposal became increasingly important as cities grew. As a result of poor sanitation and contaminated water sources, urbanization increased the spread of diseases such as cholera and typhoid. These health crises spurred governments and city planners to devise more systematic approaches to managing urban waste.

Pioneering Efforts in Waste Management

The Indus Valley civilization and ancient Greece were among the first civilizations to organize waste collection. These societies had designated places for waste disposal and even rudimentary systems for managing organic waste. However, it was not until the 19th century that more modern approaches emerged.

The Influence of Industrialization

The 19th century saw significant advancements in waste management, largely driven by the growth of industrial cities. Urban centers in Europe and North America began experimenting with various waste disposals, including incineration and organized collection services. For instance, in the 1880s, New York City established the first municipal street cleaning department, which eventually expanded to include garbage collection.

Technological Innovations

The early 20th century witnessed further advancements in waste collection technologies. Motorized vehicles (e.g., garbage trucks) allowed for more efficient and widespread collection services, replacing older methods that relied on horse-drawn carts. It wasn’t until the 1930s that the hydraulic rear-load compacting garbage truck came on the scene. Since then, garbage trucks have evolved with the side-load process, a hydraulic-powered blade, and hydraulic arms.

Modern Challenges and Innovations

Today, municipal trash collection remains a cornerstone of urban infrastructure around the world. However, new challenges such as population growth, urban sprawl, and environmental concerns have prompted cities to adopt more sustainable waste management practices. Recycling programs, composting initiatives, and the development of waste-to-energy technologies represent modern efforts to reduce landfill waste and minimize environmental impact.

The history of municipal trash collection is a testament to human ingenuity and our ability to adapt to the challenges of urban living. From ancient civilizations managing waste in rudimentary ways to modern cities implementing sophisticated waste management systems, the evolution of trash collection reflects our ongoing commitment to public health, environmental stewardship, and sustainable urban development.

Dumpster Safety: A Focus for National Safety Month

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 13:08:48 GMT

As we observe National Safety Month , it's crucial to shine a light on safety measures in all aspects of our lives, including often overlooked areas like waste management. Dumpsters, ubiquitous in both residential and commercial settings, can present significant safety hazards if not approached with caution. During National Safety Month, let's take a look at some safety tips and precautions to ensure your interactions with dumpsters are accident-free.

1. Proper Loading Techniques: When loading items into a dumpster, it's essential to follow proper techniques to prevent injuries. Always lift with your legs, not your back, to avoid strains or muscle injuries. Be mindful of the weight and size of objects you're lifting, and never overload the dumpster beyond its capacity. Distribute weight evenly to prevent the dumpster from tipping over.

2. Watch Your Step: Dumpster areas can be littered with debris, liquids, or other hazards, making slips, trips, and falls common occurrences. Always watch your step and be mindful of your surroundings when walking near dumpsters. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with slip-resistant soles to reduce the risk of accidents. Additionally, ensure proper lighting around dumpster areas, especially during nighttime operations.

3. Keep Children and Pets Away: Dumpsters may seem like intriguing places for exploration to children and pets, but they pose significant dangers. Ensure that dumpster areas are securely fenced or gated to prevent unauthorized access. Educate children about the potential hazards of playing near dumpsters, including sharp objects, toxic substances, and heavy machinery.

4. Be Aware of Hazardous Materials: Dumpsters can contain various hazardous materials, including sharp objects, broken glass, and chemicals. Always use caution when handling or disposing of such materials to prevent injuries or exposure to harmful substances. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety goggles, when dealing with potentially hazardous waste.

5. Secure Dumpster Placement: Improperly placed or unsecured dumpsters can pose risks to both property and individuals. Ensure that dumpsters are placed on level ground and adequately supported to prevent tipping or rolling. Use wheel chocks or other stabilizing devices if necessary, especially on sloped surfaces. Additionally, secure dumpsters with locks or barriers to prevent unauthorized access or tampering.

6. Maintain Clear Access: Always maintain clear access to dumpsters to facilitate safe loading and unloading operations. Avoid parking vehicles or placing obstacles in front of dumpsters, as this can impede access for waste disposal trucks and personnel. Keep surrounding areas free of clutter to prevent tripping hazards and ensure easy maneuverability.

While dumpsters play a vital role in waste management, they can also pose significant safety risks if not handled properly. By following these safety tips, you can minimize the chances of accidents and injuries associated with dumpsters. Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or construction professional, prioritizing safety around dumpsters is essential for protecting yourself, your property, and the environment.

How Weather Affects Waste Transfer Stations

Thu, 02 May 2024 13:23:13 GMT

In the bustling world of waste management, where efficiency is a must and logistics is a key concern, there's a silent force that often goes unnoticed: the weather. Yes, you read that right. Weather doesn't just influence our outdoor plans; it also impacts waste transfer stations. Spring is the start of severe storm weather, especially in Pennsylvania . From flash flooding to thunderstorms, every weather event leaves its mark on these crucial hubs of waste disposal. Let's take a look at how weather affects waste transfer stations and understand why weather matters in the world of waste management.

Operational Efficiency: What happens when trucks carrying tons of waste are queued up at the transfer station in the pouring rain? The operations slow down. Rain makes it difficult to maneuver heavy machinery, increases the risk of accidents, and poses safety hazards for workers. Moreover, wet waste becomes heavier, making it more challenging to handle and transport. It directly impacts the efficiency of waste transfer stations, leading to delays and increased operational costs.

Waste Composition: Weather doesn't just affect the operations; it also alters the composition of the waste itself. During hot and humid weather, organic waste decomposes faster, leading to foul odors and increased methane emissions. Conversely, cold weather slows down decomposition rates and prolongs waste storage time. Additionally, extreme weather events such as thunderstorms or tornadoes can result in an influx of debris and hazardous materials, further complicating the waste management process. Wind gusts not only blow trash out of the facility but can also damage trees and roofs.

Environmental Impact: Let's not forget the environmental implications of weather-related challenges faced by waste transfer stations. Heavy rains can cause runoff contaminated with pollutants from the waste, leading to water pollution and soil degradation. Moreover, extreme heat can exacerbate the release of greenhouse gases from decomposing organic waste, contributing to climate change. Waste management facilities can play a vital role in environmental stewardship by identifying and mitigating these impacts.

Infrastructure Resilience: Building resilient infrastructure is key to mitigating the impact of weather events on waste transfer stations. From designing drainage systems to withstand heavy rainfall to implementing odor control measures for hot weather conditions, there are various strategies that facilities can adopt to weatherproof their operations. By investing in robust infrastructure, you not only maximize operational efficiency but also minimize environmental risks.

A waste transfer station's operational efficiency and environmental sustainability are influenced by weather events. In recognizing and addressing these weather-related challenges, more resilient waste management systems will be able to withstand nature's unpredictable changes. So, let's weather the storm together and pave the way for a more sustainable tomorrow.

The Explosive Growth of the Dumpster Rental Market

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 19:33:50 GMT

In recent years, the dumpster rental market has experienced a remarkable surge in growth, propelled by a confluence of factors ranging from urbanization trends to increased environmental consciousness. The U.S. dumpster and roll-container market is expected to grow from $517.4 million to $998.9 million in the next ten years. What was once a niche industry has now become a thriving sector, offering indispensable services to a wide range of customers. Let's delve into some of the reasons behind this rise and explore the opportunities it presents.

Urban Expansion and Construction Boom: As cities expand and construction projects multiply, the demand for efficient waste management solutions has never been greater. Dumpster rentals provide a convenient and cost-effective way for contractors, builders, and homeowners to dispose of construction debris and maintain clean job sites. From small-scale renovations to large-scale infrastructure projects, dumpsters have become indispensable tools for managing waste in urban environments.

Convenience and Flexibility: In today's fast-paced world, convenience is key. Dumpster rental companies offer hassle-free solutions for disposing of large volumes of waste, eliminating the need for multiple trips to the landfill or recycling center. With flexible rental periods and a variety of dumpster sizes to choose from, customers can tailor their waste management solutions to suit their specific needs and budgets. Whether it's a weekend cleanup project or a long-term construction job, dumpster rental companies offer the flexibility and convenience that customers crave.

Rise of DIY Culture: The do-it-yourself (DIY) trend has gained momentum in recent years, with more people taking on home improvement projects and renovations. Dumpster rentals play a crucial role in supporting this DIY culture by providing a convenient way to dispose of construction debris, old appliances, and other unwanted items. From decluttering garages to renovating kitchens, dumpsters are essential tools for DIY enthusiasts looking to tackle projects big and small.

Growing Commercial and Industrial Demand: Beyond residential and construction sectors, the dumpster rental market is also experiencing growth in commercial and industrial segments. Businesses of all sizes rely on dumpsters for managing waste generated from manufacturing processes, office cleanouts, and commercial renovations. With the rise of e-commerce and online retail, businesses are grappling with increasing volumes of packaging waste, further driving demand for dumpster rental services.

The dumpster rental market is undergoing a period of unprecedented growth, fueled by urbanization, convenience, and evolving consumer preferences. As the need for efficient waste management solutions continues to grow, dumpster rental companies are poised to capitalize on this trend and expand their reach into new markets and industries. With innovation and adaptation, the dumpster rental market is primed for continued success in the years to come. At Berks Transfer, we are ready to tackle your disposal needs with a variety of dumpsters . Give us a call at 610-926-7626 to learn what we can do for your project!

Setting the Standard: A Guide to Construction Dumpster Regulations

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 15:16:13 GMT

In the dynamic world of construction, managing waste is a critical aspect that can significantly impact project efficiency and environmental sustainability. Construction dumpsters play a pivotal role in waste disposal, making it essential to adhere to established standards. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of adhering to construction dumpster standards and discuss key guidelines for their proper use.

Importance of Construction Dumpster Standards

Safety Compliance: Construction sites are inherently hazardous environments. Adhering to dumpster standards ensures the safety of workers and the public. Properly maintained dumpsters reduce the risk of accidents, such as overloading or spills, which can lead to injuries or property damage.

Environmental Responsibility: Construction activities generate a significant amount of waste. Following established standards for dumpsters helps minimize the environmental impact by promoting responsible waste disposal practices. This includes recycling materials when possible and preventing hazardous substances from entering landfills.

Regulatory Compliance: There are local, state and federal regulations in place to govern the use of dumpsters on construction sites. Compliance with these regulations is crucial to avoid fines and legal repercussions. Understanding and adhering to these standards also contributes to a positive relationship with regulatory bodies.

Key Standards for Construction Dumpsters

Size and Capacity: Construction dumpsters come in various sizes, ranging from 10 to 40 cubic yards. Selecting the appropriate size for a project is crucial to prevent overloading, which not only poses safety risks but also violates regulations. Knowing the capacity of the dumpster ensures efficient waste management without exceeding weight limits.

Placement and Accessibility: Proper placement of dumpsters is essential for easy access and efficient waste disposal. Dumpsters should be located strategically to minimize disruption to construction activities while allowing convenient access for waste removal vehicles. Accessibility standards ensure that collection trucks can safely navigate around the site.

Waste Segregation: To enhance recycling efforts and reduce the environmental impact, construction dumpsters should facilitate waste segregation. Establish clear guidelines for separating recyclable materials from general waste. This not only supports sustainability goals but may also lead to cost savings through recycling programs. If hazardous materials are being disposed, there must be guidelines for the proper disposal of these materials.

In the world of construction, adherence to standards is key to promoting safety, environmental responsibility, and regulatory compliance. Construction dumpster standards play a crucial role in achieving these objectives. By carefully selecting, placing, and maintaining dumpsters while following guidelines for waste and waste segregation disposal, construction sites can contribute to a safer, more sustainable, and well-regulated industry. At Berks Transfer, we know dumpsters and have the dumpster for your next construction project!

How Wildlife Interacts with Dumpsters

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 13:35:01 GMT

Source: forums.wyze.com

Whether in cities or the suburbs, wildlife and dumpsters engage in a complex and often surprising dance. As humans continue to reshape the landscape, our discards become a new habitat for many species. In this blog post, we'll briefly delve into the intriguing world of how wildlife interacts with dumpsters and explore the challenges that arise in these ecosystems.

The Urban Buffet

Dumpsters draw a variety of wildlife seeking sustenance. Raccoons, opossums, rats, and even birds are known to frequent these urban buffets. The primary attractant is, of course, the readily available food waste from households, restaurants, and businesses.

Raccoons : Equipped with nimble paws and a highly developed sense of touch, raccoons are adept at prying open dumpster lids. Their nocturnal habits often bring them out under the cover of darkness, scavenging for leftovers and discarded goodies.

Opossums: Often misunderstood, opossums play a valuable role in sanitation by consuming insects, carrion, and fallen fruits found in dumpsters. Their nocturnal nature makes them less visible to humans but vital contributors to waste management.

Rats: Small but fast, rats will camp out near dumpsters. They get into them through drain plugs, split seams, and from the open top. An overloaded dumpster is considered a buffet for them.

Birds: Like crows and seagulls, birds exploit dumpsters as a convenient food source.

The skies above dumpsters are often filled with acrobatic displays as birds compete for the choicest morsels.

Challenges and Consequences

While wildlife may benefit from the availability of discarded food, this interaction poses challenges for both animals and human communities.

Health and Safety Concerns:

Increased wildlife presence around dumpsters can lead to the spread of diseases such as leptospirosis and salmonellosis.
Encounters with aggressive animals, like raccoons, can pose risks to human and pet safety.
Impact on Ecosystems
Dependence on human-generated waste disrupts natural foraging behaviors, potentially leading to imbalances in local ecosystems.
Unintended consequences, such as changes in animal behavior and population dynamics, may result from sustained dumpster feeding.

The relationship between wildlife and dumpsters is a fascinating interplay of adaptation and survival in today’s landscape. As cities and suburban communities continue to expand, finding sustainable solutions to manage this interaction becomes imperative. By addressing the challenges and embracing responsible waste management practices, we can strive for a harmonious coexistence between humans and the wildlife that has learned to thrive in our discarded abundance.

Tackling Fires in the Waste and Recycling Industry

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 20:40:32 GMT

The waste and recycling industry plays a critical role in managing our society's waste and ensuring environmental sustainability. However, one alarming and recurring issue has grabbed headlines and caused substantial concern over the past decade – fires at waste and recycling facilities. These fires not only pose a severe threat to the environment but also result in costly downtime for these essential operations, like the facility above (Detroit Free Press). In this blog, we will delve into the increasing problem of fires in the waste and recycling industry, with a special focus on the improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries as a contributing factor.

The Growing Concern

Fires have been a persistent issue within the waste and recycling industry, and they continue to make headlines for all the wrong reasons. The number of such incidents has been on the rise for the past ten years, with 2022 marking a particularly distressing milestone. In that year, the industry experienced its worst fire-related incidents, prompting the need for immediate action.

Yet, the problem shows no signs of abating, as 2022 saw a 6% increase in fires compared to the previous year, 2021. This concerning trend demands our attention, as the impact of these fires goes beyond just statistics.

Environmental Threat

Fires in waste and recycling facilities present a clear and present danger to the environment. These facilities process a wide range of materials, some of which can release hazardous emissions when burned. This not only contributes to air pollution but can also contaminate soil and water, further disrupting local ecosystems.

Furthermore, the disposal of lithium-ion batteries, found in greeting cards, handheld devices, and toys etc., poses a significant environmental risk. When not handled properly, these batteries can explode or catch fire, releasing toxic chemicals into the environment. The improper disposal of such batteries (e.g., thrown into a household trash can) has been identified as one of the leading causes of fires in these facilities. These batteries should be taken to a hazardous household cleanup event.

Economic Impact

Aside from the environmental consequences, fires in the waste and recycling industry have substantial economic implications. The costly downtime that results from these incidents can have a cascading effect on operations. This downtime disrupts the regular workflow, causing financial losses and potential delays in waste management and recycling services.

Worker Safety

The safety of workers within these facilities is another major concern when it comes to fires. Employees in waste and recycling plants are at risk of direct exposure to hazardous materials and smoke inhalation during fire outbreaks. Ensuring their safety should be a top priority for the industry. One way is to have a fire prevention system in the facility.

Fires in the waste and recycling industry are a critical issue that affects not only the environment but also the economy and worker safety. The increasing number of incidents, particularly in 2022, emphasizes the urgency of addressing this problem. By taking proactive measures, including proper disposal of lithium-ion batteries and robust fire prevention systems, the waste and recycling industry can mitigate the risk of fires and work towards a safer and more sustainable future. At Berks Transfer, we strive to provide a safe work environment and prioritize the prevention of fires and the continued functionality of our facility.

Renting a Dumpster Isn’t Worth It, Right?

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 12:58:02 GMT

When it comes to home improvement projects, cleaning out the garage, renovating your house, or even dealing with a large-scale construction project, one thing is certain: you'll generate a lot of waste. Proper waste disposal and management are crucial for keeping your project on track and maintaining a clean and safe work environment. This is where renting a dumpster can be a game-changer. Let’s explore some of the benefits of renting a dumpster for your waste management needs.

1. Efficient Waste Removal

Renting a dumpster offers a highly efficient way to remove waste. Instead of making numerous trips to a landfill or recycling center, you can conveniently dispose of all your waste in one place. This saves you time, energy, and money, making your project more efficient overall.

2. Increased Safety

Cluttered job sites are not only inefficient but can also be hazardous. By renting a dumpster, you can ensure that debris and waste are properly contained, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. This is particularly important for construction and renovation projects, where sharp materials and heavy objects can pose dangers to workers and passersby.

3. Environmentally Friendly

Dumpster rental services often provide recycling options. This means that instead of all your waste ending up in a landfill, materials like paper, cardboard, metal, and even some plastics can be recycled. This helps reduce your carbon footprint and contributes to a more sustainable environment.

4. Cost-Effective

While renting a dumpster comes with a fee, it's often more cost-effective than alternative waste disposal methods. If you were to transport waste yourself, you'd have to factor in the costs of fuel, vehicle maintenance, landfill fees, and your time. Renting a dumpster typically covers all these costs in one, and you can focus your resources on your project.

5. A Variety of Sizes

Dumpsters come in various sizes, from small ones suitable for residential cleanouts to larger containers perfect for construction sites. This means you can choose the size that best fits your needs, ensuring you're not paying for space you won't use or, conversely, that you have enough space for your waste.

6. Improved Site Organization

A dumpster provides a central location for waste collection, which can greatly improve the organization of your project. With waste neatly contained, you can better plan and allocate space for other project requirements, making the work site more efficient and user-friendly.

7. Convenience

Renting a dumpster is incredibly convenient. It's delivered to your location, and once your project is complete, it's taken away, saving you the hassle of waste transportation. This convenience can make your project run smoother and reduce stress.

8. Compliance

Many local regulations and ordinances require proper waste disposal for construction and renovation projects. Renting a dumpster ensures you're in compliance with these regulations, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.

Renting a dumpster streamlines waste removal, promotes safety, saves time and money, and contributes to a cleaner and more environmentally friendly approach to waste management. Whether you're a homeowner or a contractor, the benefits of renting a dumpster are numerous and can significantly improve the success of your project. At Berks Transfer, we make renting a dumpster easy. We offer a variety of dumpster sizes (12, 20, 30, & 40 Yards), so you’ll find what you need. Plus, we can deliver your dumpster the next business day. Contact us today to learn more!

The Weather Factor: How Weather Affects a Dumpster

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 17:58:38 GMT

Dumpsters are an essential component of waste management, serving as temporary storage for our discarded items and materials. However, these seemingly indestructible containers are not impervious to the elements. From heat surges to tornadoes, the northeast has experienced a strong increase in severe weather over the past 20 years. Thus, weather plays a significant role in the condition and functionality of dumpsters. Let’s take a brief look at the ways in which weather affects dumpsters.

Rust and Corrosion

One of the most common ways weather affects dumpsters is through rust and corrosion. Dumpsters are typically made of steel, which is susceptible to oxidation when exposed to moisture and oxygen. Rain, snow, and humidity can accelerate this process, leading to rust formation. Over time, rust can weaken the structural integrity of the dumpster, making it more prone to leaks and potential collapse.

To mitigate the effects of rust and corrosion, regular inspections and maintenance are essential. Applying rust-resistant coatings and promptly repairing any damaged areas can help extend the lifespan of the dumpster.

Heat and Moisture

Dumpsters often contain organic waste, which can emit unpleasant odors when exposed to heat and moisture. High temperatures and humidity levels, common during the summer months, can accelerate the decomposition of organic matter within the dumpster, intensifying odors. Additionally, these conditions can promote the growth of mold and bacteria, posing health risks to those handling the waste.

Properly sealing and covering the dumpster can help minimize odor issues. Regular cleaning and disinfection can also prevent mold and bacteria from proliferating.

A hot dumpster can also be dangerous. Heat waves can make the metal of a dumpster reach scalding-hot temperatures. Placing a hand or brushing up against a dumpster that has been sitting out in the summer sun can cause a burn. It’s important to warn those using the dumpster about this issue.

Snow and Ice

In regions where winter brings freezing temperatures, snow and ice can pose significant challenges for dumpsters. Accumulated snow and ice can make it difficult to access the dumpster, hindering waste disposal efforts. Moreover, the weight of snow and ice can strain the dumpster's structure, potentially causing damage.

To combat snow and ice-related issues, property owners and dumpster rental companies should have a plan in place for clearing access to dumpsters during winter weather. This may involve snow removal, salting, or installing protective covers to prevent ice buildup.

Extreme Weather Conditions

Heavy rain and severe storms can disrupt usage and delivery and collection schedules. Rainwater can fill the dumpster, making it heavier and more difficult to empty. In some cases, strong winds can knock over or move dumpsters, creating safety hazards and littering the surrounding area with waste. At Berks Transfer, we monitor weather forecasts and adjust delivery and collection schedules accordingly to ensure the safety of our employees and customers.

Weather is a constant force that affects dumpsters in various ways, from rust and corrosion to odor problems and operational disruptions. Property owners must recognize these challenges and take proactive measures to maintain and protect rented dumpsters. By understanding and addressing the impact of weather on dumpsters, we can help our customers keep their dumpsters fully operational and in good condition. Contact us today to learn more about renting one of our dumpsters !

Why Use a Dumpster for a Landscaping Project?

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 16:54:07 GMT

Why Use a Dumpster for a Landscaping Project?

It’s still warm outside to tackle a landscaping project or to get a hardscaping project done before colder weather hits. Whether you're working on a residential or commercial property, managing the waste generated during landscaping projects is crucial. That's where dumpsters come into play as invaluable tools for keeping the green clean and the project running smoothly.

1. Efficient Debris Removal

Landscaping often involves tasks like tree trimming, lawn mowing, and garden renovation, which generate a significant amount of organic and non-organic debris. Dumpsters provide a convenient and efficient way to remove this waste. Instead of making numerous trips to the local landfill, a dumpster on-site allows landscapers to dispose of debris promptly, saving time and effort.

2. Yard Waste Management

Landscaping projects produce a substantial volume of yard waste, including branches, leaves, grass clippings, and soil. This summer extreme heat and sun have damaged some lawns to the extent they need to be reseeded, which produces a lot of waste. Dumpsters designed for yard waste are equipped to handle these materials, ensuring they are properly disposed of and can be later recycled or turned into compost.

3. Construction and Hardscape Materials

In addition to organic waste, landscaping projects often require the use of construction materials like stones, bricks, or timber for features like patios, walkways, and retaining walls. Sinkhole remediation can also produce excess soil during the repair process. Dumpsters are essential for managing the removal of excess or unwanted construction materials, ensuring the site remains tidy and hazard-free.

4. Streamlined Cleanup

Landscaping can get messy, with soil, dirt, and plant materials, plus packaging materials and trash, scattered across the site. Dumpsters provide a centralized location for disposing of these materials, making the cleanup process faster and more efficient. This keeps the work environment safer and more organized.

5. Cost-Effective Solution

Renting a dumpster can be a cost-effective solution compared to multiple trips to a landfill or waste disposal facility. It eliminates the need for landscapers to invest time and money in transportation, allowing them to focus on the landscaping work itself.

Dumpsters are unsung heroes in the world of landscaping, making projects more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible. They provide a convenient and centralized solution for managing the diverse types of waste generated during landscaping endeavors, helping to keep the green clean and contributing to the overall success of the project.

So, the next time you embark on a landscaping project, consider the invaluable role that dumpsters can play in your green transformation. At Berks Transfer, we have the right dumpster for your landscaping project. Contact us today to learn how easy and affordable it is to rent one of our dumpsters for your project!

Unraveling the Threads: Waste in the Fashion Industry

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 15:34:42 GMT

As a non-hazardous waste processing facility, we see clothing in dumpsters from cleanouts. And it’s not just worn clothing that ends up in the trash. From textile scraps to unsold garments, the fashion industry has a waste problem that's garnering increasing attention. Let's take a closer look at this issue and some sustainable solutions to address it.

The Fast Fashion Conundrum

Fast fashion, characterized by rapid production and quick turnover of clothing, has contributed significantly to the waste crisis in the fashion industry. As new styles hit the shelves almost weekly, consumers are encouraged to buy more, and consequently, discard more. This vicious cycle results in heaps of discarded clothes finding their way to landfills.

Striving for Sustainable Solutions

There are sustainable solutions, but it takes money, equipment, and a concerted effort to ingrain them into society. Below are some sustainable solutions.

Circular Fashion: The concept of a circular economy in fashion aims to reduce waste by designing clothes for longevity, repairability, and recyclability.

Textile Recycling: Innovations in textile recycling can turn old garments into new materials, reducing the need for virgin resources.

Upcycling : Turning discarded clothes into new, unique pieces not only reduces waste but also encourages creativity.

Consumer Awareness: Educating consumers about the impact of their choices can influence demand for more sustainable practices in the industry.

The waste issue in the fashion industry is a complex challenge that requires a multi-pronged approach. From reimagining production processes to changing consumer attitudes, each step counts toward building a more sustainable future. As the industry starts to acknowledge its waste footprint, it's time for fashion to evolve from being just stylish to being responsible, leaving a positive impact on both people and the planet.

Dumpster Art & Upcycling: Transforming Waste Containers into Masterpieces

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 13:17:13 GMT

In the bustling streets of urban environments, where dumpsters often blend into the background of daily life, a unique and creative movement is emerging – the world of dumpster art and upcycling. This innovative approach is changing the perception of waste, turning discarded containers into canvases for artistic expression and platforms for environmental consciousness. Let's dive into the captivating realm of dumpster art and explore how it's reshaping our perspectives on waste and art.

Dumpster Art: A Palette of Possibilities

From ordinary receptacles for waste to extraordinary mediums for imagination, dumpsters have found themselves at the heart of an artistic revolution. Dumpster art is an avenue where artists can transform these often overlooked containers into stunning pieces that catch the eye and stimulate the mind.

Imagine the once dull exterior of a dumpster now adorned with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and thought-provoking messages. Murals stretch across their surfaces, depicting stories, landscapes, and abstract forms. By employing dumpsters as their canvas, artists not only bring art closer to people but also instigate conversations about waste, urban aesthetics, and sustainability.

Upcycling: Elevating Waste to Value

Enter the realm of upcycling, a sustainable practice that transforms discarded materials into products of higher quality and value. While recycling converts waste into reusable materials, upcycling goes a step further by creatively repurposing items into something entirely new.

In the context of dumpsters, upcycling takes on an exciting form .

Artists and innovators are turning discarded containers into functional objects, such as seating arrangements, pop-up shops, and even mobile gardens. These transformed dumpsters not only serve practical purposes but also act as symbols of eco-consciousness, reminding us that waste is not the end of the line.

Dumpster art and upcycling demonstrate that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places. These initiatives challenge preconceived notions about waste and its potential, offering us a glimpse into a future where sustainability, art, and community converge. The next time you walk past a dumpster, take a moment to consider the possibilities it holds.

Trash Does Have Some Beneficial Uses

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 19:41:07 GMT

Despite being seen as a problem due to its negative environmental impact, there are some good things about trash. From recycling to composting, there are ways to make solid waste useful and eco-friendly. Let’s talk a look at some of them.

Waste-to-energy conversion: Trash, particularly organic waste, can be converted into energy through processes like incineration or anaerobic digestion. This can help generate electricity, heat, or biofuels.

Job creation and economic opportunities: The waste management and recycling sectors can create employment opportunities, ranging from waste collection and sorting to recycling facility operations and innovation in waste management technologies.

While these examples highlight potential benefits, it is important to note that we should try to minimize waste generation, promote recycling and reuse, and prioritize sustainable practices to minimize the negative impacts associated with trash.

Yet, when it comes to waste disposal services, it’s important to utilize a facility that takes waste processing seriously. It’s important that the facility is committed to protecting the health and safety of residents by providing services that result in a clean, livable community. When you need to dispose of non-hazardous waste, you can count on Berks Transfer to handle your needs, from hauling to dumpsters. Contact us today at 610-926-7626 to learn more!

Do You Know Fire Safety for Your Dumpster?

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 20:24:39 GMT

Summer is here and that means an increase in dumpster rentals. Along with the correct placement of the dumpster at your site, fire safety must also be addressed. Dumpster fires can be dangerous and cause significant damage to property and pose risks to public safety. Here is some information on preventing dumpster fires, along with common causes and best practices for fire prevention.

Common Causes of Dumpster Fires

Unfortunately, dumpster fires do occur on a variety of job sites. Whether it happens by accident or on purpose, it’s important to know the causes to help ensure a safe dumpster rental experience.

Improper Disposal of Flammable Materials: Dumpsters often contain flammable materials such as paper, cardboard, wood, and plastic. But when these materials come into contact with improperly disposed materials, such as cleaning chemicals, pool chemicals, solvents and batteries, they can ignite and start a fire.

Careless Smoking: Discarded cigarette butts or improperly extinguished smoking materials thrown into dumpsters can ignite the contents.

Arson: Intentionally set fires in dumpsters can be a result of vandalism, illegal activity, or malicious intent.

Electrical Malfunctions: Dumpsters located near electrical equipment or power sources can be at risk of fire if there are electrical malfunctions, such as faulty wiring or short circuits.

Photos: New York Intelligencer (left) and northbrookfield.net (right)

Fire Prevention Tips

Here are some fire prevention tips to help protect your dumpster rental.

Proper Waste Disposal: Dispose of flammable materials properly and ensure they are not placed in dumpsters. Always check with your dumpster rental company about want can and cannot go into a dumpster.

No Smoking Policy: Implement a strict no smoking policy around dumpsters and ensure that smoking areas are located away from waste disposal areas.

Adequate Signage: Place clear and visible signs near dumpsters reminding people not to dispose of flammable materials or cigarettes in the dumpster.

Fire Extinguishers: Install fire extinguishers near dumpsters and ensure they are easily accessible. It’s also important that your team knows how to properly use a fire extinguisher .

Security Measures: Implement security measures such as surveillance cameras or fencing to deter arson and unauthorized access to dumpsters.

Protecting your dumpster and your crew and/or family from a dumpster fire should always be a priority. It’s also essential to follow local fire codes and regulations pertaining to waste management and fire prevention. At Berks Transfer, we want our customers to have a positive experience with our dumpsters. We inspect them before and after use to help ensure they are in top condition as well as help our customers maximize their usage. Contact us today to learn more!

Top Five Tips to Safety Secure a Load

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 18:21:09 GMT

Summer means getting outdoors and cleaning out the house. It’s a busy time for waste transfer stations (or landfills) as well. Many accept truckloads of junk that come from people’s homes and offices. Yet, getting the junk safely to a waste transfer station can be dangerous if the items are not loaded and secured correctly. Many do not pay attention to cargo arrangement or safety of operation since it’s a pickup truck and not a bigger truck like a semi-tractor trailer or a box truck. The photo above is a prime example (picture from Massachusetts State Police). When an object falls off a truck, it can cause more damage than you think. For example, a 20-pound object traveling 55 mph has a force of 1,000 pounds at impact according to PennDot . Here are top five tips to help you load and secure the load in your truck.

Source: Washington State Dept. of Ecology

1. Check the Truck – Before loading the bed of the truck, do a maintenance inspection.

Tires: Are the tires properly inflated? How are the treads?

Exhaust System: Is the exhaust system rusted or corroded? Could a muffler or other parts drag and detach?

Hardware: Is the hardware attached to the truck in good working condition?

2. Secure the Cargo – Using the right tools to secure a load is vital for a safe transport. Tie down the load with rope, bungee cords, netting, or straps. Also, make sure the anchor points are in good condition.

3. Distribute the Weight – Place the heavy items as forward as possible (closest to the cab) while loading from the left to right.

4. Tie to Vehicle – Do not tie the boxes or objects to each other. You must tie them to the vehicle or the trailer. Before starting your journey, make sure the load is secure and will not move.

5. Cover the Cargo – Cover the cargo with netting or a tarp to keep it intact and to protect it from bad weather.

After deciding what to dispose, safely transporting the items is the other half of the equation. At Berks Transfer, we put safety first in everything we do. This includes helping our customers safely get their junk to us and how to unload it. We gladly welcome pickup trucks for our do-it-yourself drop off service. We strive to make the experience as safe and efficient as possible. Contact us today learn more!

Using a Dumpster for a Community Yard Sale?

Wed, 24 May 2023 20:32:55 GMT

Using a Dumpster for a Community Yard Sale?

Believe it or not, dumpsters can be utilized for yard sales , although they are not typically the most common method of waste management for such events. Here are some considerations and potential uses for dumpsters during yard sales:

1. Large-Scale Yard Sales: If you are organizing a particularly large yard sale (e.g. home owners associations) with a significant amount of items for sale, you may consider renting a dumpster to have on-site. This can be useful for disposing of unsold items, damaged goods, or any waste generated during the event.

2. Cleanup and Disposal: Once the yard sale is over, a dumpster can be useful for quick and efficient cleanup. It allows you to dispose of any remaining unsold items, packaging materials, or general waste, ensuring that the area is left clean and tidy.

3. Recycling and Donation Options: Consider promoting recycling and donation options to minimize waste during your yard sale. Encourage customers to bring their own bags or containers, and provide separate areas for recyclable items, such as paper, plastic, or glass. You could also collaborate with local charities or thrift stores to accept donations of unsold items.

Remember to check with your local regulations to ensure compliance with any restrictions or requirements for waste disposal. Additionally, it's important to be mindful of environmental sustainability and consider recycling, reusing, or donating items whenever possible to minimize waste. Contact us today to learn how Berks Transfer can make your yard sale cleanup go smoothly!

What Are the Top Four Types of Waste?

Tue, 09 May 2023 17:42:18 GMT

Let’s face it, no one wants to talk about waste. We globally produce too much of it and not enough of it is recycled. Yet, it is the U.S. that produces more waste per person on Earth. That said, knowing the types of waste can help you better understand what can be recycled and what cannot. While there are many types of waste, we will be covering the top four types here.

Each type of waste usually finds its way into a dumpster due to the nature of the project, whether it’s a house cleanout or construction project. No matter the season, Berks Transfer has the dumpster that fits your budget and project schedule. Contact us today to learn more!

The Four Types of Waste Transfer Stations

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 16:39:32 GMT

Before the 1960s, there were no transfer stations to help mitigate the issue of waste management. Many towns and cities were burning their trash, which was harmful to the environment. The Solid Waste Act of 1965 provided a solution – the waste transfer station. This is a facility where municipalities, companies and individuals could bring their solid waste (not hazardous waste) to be unloaded and stored until it was then transported to the final destination (e.g., landfill) for disposal. Transfer stations can come in many shapes and sizes based on the most cost-effective way to transfer waste through a facility. We will briefly discuss the four types of transfer stations in this blog.

1. Lift & Load – In this transfer station, there is an elevated tipping floor next to an open area designated as the pit floor. The tipping floor is 5 feet to 9 feet above the pit floor. Collection vehicles dump their solid waste (not hazardous waste) onto the tipping floor where the operator of a loader and/or or excavator can lift and load the waste into a waiting trailer that has backed in or driven onto the pit floor.

2. Push Pit – Similar to the lift and load transfer station, the push pit has a higher elevated tipping floor of 15 feet. Instead of a backing into the pit, the driver of the trailer can only driver thru it. A loader and an excavator can be used within the footprint of the facility to push waste that was dumped into a pile on the tipping floor into the hole.

3. Surge Pit – This is where there is a “surge” of waste in a large pit. Solid waste is tipped into the storage pit via collection vehicles backing in or driving up to it. In the pit, equipment is used to push and compact the waste so trailers can be loaded up to maximum weight.

4. Direct Discharge – The waste from the collection vehicle is emptied directly into a trailer used to transport the waste to a final disposal facility.

At Berks Transfer , we operate a lift and load transfer station. Our skilled excavator operator lifts the waste that is piled and loads it into waiting trailers that have backed into our pit floor. Our facility is permitted to accept up to 1,000 tons of solid waste daily, so our team is continuously moving waste to get it to the appropriate disposal facility. We are dedicated to giving our customers affordable rates and to get them in and out of our facility as quickly as possible. Contact us today to learn more!

What's the Difference Between a Landfill and a Transfer Station?

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 19:55:50 GMT

The first landfill in Fresco, CA. Source: Atlas Obscura

The United States has been dealing with the growing problem of trash disposal. The first sanitary landfill was created in 1937 in Fresco, California, and is now a National Historic Landmark. This solution helped to reduce (and eventually eliminate) illegal trash dumping. Yet, it wasn’t until the 1970s when landfills were widely used. In 1976, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act was created to regulate them. However, prior to this, many cities and towns incinerated their trash, releasing toxins into the air. More needed to be done to ensure trash was properly handled and disposed. This is where transfer stations came into the picture.

Transfer Stations Are Created

The creation of transfer stations stems from the Solid Waste Act of 1965, an amendment to the Clean Air Act. Even with the creation of landfills, many towns and cities were still burning their waste. Transfer stations were part of the new solid waste management system. They were the “middlemen” between customers and landfills. Transfer stations were places that stored trash – but only temporarily. The trash was packaged and transported to recycling centers or landfills.

Transfer stations were an economic solution that reduced the environmental footprint of waste collection. By combining several individual waste loads into one larger shipment, they saved communities time and reduced labor and transport-related costs.

The Dynamic Duo

Landfills and transfer stations have made waste collection and recycling much easier and cost-effective. While they both receive trash and are regulated, only one of them moves trash to another location. Transfer Stations are also smaller than landfills and are housed in warehouses. Both play vital parts in managing solid waste as well as helping to protect the environment.

For over 20 years, Berks Transfer been providing convenient and affordable non-hazardous waste disposal to the greater Berks County area. Whether you have a truckload of waste, a dumpster full of construction debris, or a tractor trailer full of waste, we make it easy for you to unload so you can back on the road quickly. Contact us today to learn more!

Do You Know the 3 Ds of a Cleanout?

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 17:02:49 GMT

When it comes to saving the environment, we have all heard of the three Rs. Reducing, reusing, and recycling help people do their part to fight climate change. It is most evident with plastic bottles . The three Rs are simple to remember and have heightened awareness. We have learned to reduce the number of plastic bottles by using water bottles, recycle them in the appropriate containers, and reuse them (the plastic) to make numerous products (e.g., shoes). A similar statement can be made about the three Ds for cleanouts. The process makes it less overwhelming when cleaning out a basement, attic, or garage. So, do you know the three Ds?

Decide – It’s the first step in the cleanout process. You must decide what to keep and put it in an area away from the other two piles. Keep items you know you will use again (e.g., holiday decorations) or keepsakes. They can also be items that can be refurbished (to keep or sell), such as old dressers or tables. However, if you haven't used an item for a couple of years, you should either donate it if it is in good condition or dispose of it if it is damaged.

Donate - The old saying "one man's trash is another man's treasure" applies here. Toys, furniture, and décor can be donated to Good Will (a thrift store) or a church. Also, toys and highchairs (clean and in good condition) can be donated to a daycare center. Or, you can donate your clothing to a relative (e.g., baby clothes to an expecting mother).

Dispose – Sadly, some items cannot be salvaged. These are items that are missing pieces (e.g., puzzles and games) or are damaged (e.g., dents in appliances or holes in clothing). There can be items where part of them can be kept or donated, but the other part needs to be thrown out. For example, a lamp can be salvaged but the lampshade is damaged. When it comes to electronics, some thrift stores will not accept those that are at least five years old. It is best to take your “old” electronics to a disposal facility that accepts e-waste .

For the items you are throwing out, you can either rent one of our dumpsters for large projects or you can drop off a truck or carload of junk at our facility. We make getting rid of waste affordable and convenient. Contact us today to learn how we can make your cleanout run smoothly!

Do You Know What Cold Stress Is?

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 19:26:30 GMT

In certain parts of the U.S., cold weather can hit as early as October and can last until May. Even in states that have an unpredictable winter, such as Pennsylvania, it’s important to make sure those who work outside are protected from the cold. This means being prepared for a drop in temperature, which can lead to cold stress. While cold stress is a broad term, it’s when the internal body temperature drops due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. Most think cold stress happens only outdoors, but it can also occur indoors.

What is Cold Stress?

While it’s obvious that cold stress affects those who work outside for long periods of time, such as sanitation, construction, and utility repair workers, it can also affect those who work inside where there are cold temperatures (e.g., refrigerated warehouses). Cold stress occurs when the body cannot maintain its core internal temperature in the cold. Thus, the body works to keep its core (chest and abdomen) warm by drawing away blood from the hands, feet, skin, arms, and legs. When these areas cool, that’s when serious conditions can occur. Also, there are risk factors for cold stress, including wet/damp clothing, dressing improperly, and predisposing health conditions.

Types of Cold Stress

There are three types of cold stress and each has a range of symptoms. Once a worker begins to experience a symptom, treatment should be administered immediately.

Frostbite – The name isn’t too far off from what happens inside the body as the core temperature goes down quickly. Ice begins to form on the inside of the body after long periods of exposure. The ice prevents the movement of blood through the capillaries, which deprives body tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Frostbite starts out as numbness of limbs and can escalate to blisters or black scabs on affected areas. Left untreated, amputation of damaged tissue may be warranted. Treatment includes moving the worker to a warm, dry area and cover affected area with a dry cloth to protect it from contact until help arrives.

Hypothermia – From the English “hypo” meaning below and the Greek “thermē” meaning heat, hypothermia is a condition in which the body loses heat faster than it can produce. Once the body’s stored up heat is depleted, hypothermia sets in. The symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, lack of coordination, unable to walk or stand, confusion, and severe muscle stiffness. Treatment depends on the level of hypothermia – mild, moderate, or severe. No matter the level, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Trench Foot – Also called immersion foot, trench foot occurs when feet are immersed in cold water for long periods of time. It’s similar to frostbite, but not as severe. Symptoms include a tingling sensation, leg cramps, swelling, and blisters. Remove the wet shoes and socks and dry the feet while waiting for medical attention. For severe cases, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Preventing Cold Stress

First and foremost, workers should receive training on recognizing and preventing cold stress. It is vital that the worker dress appropriately for the weather and in layers (at least three). Wear a hat, insulated boots, and insulated gloves as well as keep a change of dry clothes in case they get wet. If you get hot while working, open your jacket, but take nothing off. Also, the fabric of your outer wear is important. It is recommended to use fabric that does not lose its insulation qualities like cotton. Wool is the best choice since it retains heat even when wet.

While working, drink plenty of warm liquids to prevent becoming dehydrated and schedule frequent breaks in warm areas. If possible, work with a partner and near a radiant heater.

At Berks Transfer, the safety our team is paramount. They are dressed for the weather with the proper personal protection equipment. The team works hard to keep our facility working at optimal levels. This means they are outside assisting customers and transferring waste to appropriate disposal facilities as quickly and efficiently as possible. Contact us today to learn more!

Can I Put This Into a Roll-Off Dumpster?

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 15:13:41 GMT

Most people assume that everything goes into a roll-off dumpster when they see one on a job site or in front of a home. It isn't true. There are rules and regulations that govern what goes into a dumpster. They are in place to keep companies compliant and to protect the environment. While anything in a liquid state cannot go into a dumpster, plenty of items can.

What Can Be Disposed of in a Roll-Off Dumpster

Alkaline Batteries: Due to new manufacturing rules, alkaline batteries no longer contain mercury . AAA, AA, C, D, and 9V alkaline batteries can go in the trash. Yet, non-alkaline batteries (e.g., button cell batteries and car batteries) must be properly disposed.

Construction & Demolition Debris: Carpets, drywall, brick, concrete, plywood, stone, roofing shingles, siding, insulation, and tiles can go into a container. Renting a dumpster for recycling certain materials is an option. For example, you can rent a dumpster to contain cinder blocks and concrete that have no paint on them. Do not mix any other material with them that cannot be recycled (e.g., wood).

Appliances: Most appliances can go into a dumpster. However, those that contain a liquid , such as microwaves, freezers, televisions, AC units, and refrigerators, cannot. The liquid can seep into the ground in a landfill causing the contamination of the soil and underlying groundwater.

Yard Waste: Branches, mulch, sod, trees, and grass are safe to put in a dumpster. Before disposing of dirt, make sure it is not contaminated.

Furniture: Depending on its size, most furniture is acceptable. Couches, bar stools, tables, entertainment consoles, box springs, cabinets, bookshelves, and other furniture are permitted.

Household Trash: When cleaning out a home, many items can go into a dumpster. Toys, clothing, window treatments, documents, cardboard, pictures, and books are the most common items disposed.

When renting a roll-off dumpster, knowing what can and cannot go into it will keep you and/or your company in full compliance and protect the environment. At Berks Transfer, our knowledgeable staff can help you select the dumpster that meets your needs. Contact us today to schedule the delivery and pickup of your roll-off dumpster!

Why Declutter in January?

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 18:13:30 GMT

Of all the months of the year, January is chosen to be the month to set new goals (or resolutions). It’s the start of a new year and we are energized to start healthy habits. It’s also the aftermath of the holidays, where we must find new places for our gifts. This can be a problem, especially if the gifts being replaced are large items (e.g. TVs, computers and appliances). The old gifts get sent to the basement or garage, which becomes the graveyard of holiday gifts past. Just seeing the amount of stuff in the basement or garage can be overwhelming. The task of decluttering these areas is as big a goal as setting up an exercise program (and sticking to it). Thus, January is the perfect month to declutter your home.

Decluttering is not as bad as some people make it out to be. Yes, it does have a negative connotation, but it can be seen as a way to simplify your life. The first step in decluttering your home is to create a plan for it. The second step is renting a dumpster. Why should you rent a dumpster you ask? It’s an easy way to put all the stuff you are throwing away into one container and it’s in one location (e.g., your driveway or in front of your home). Also, you won’t have to guess if the items you put out at the curb will be picked up by your local trash disposal company. And January is the best time to rent a dumpster since there aren’t as many active construction projects in the winter months. It’s important to choose a dumpster company that has the right dumpster for your project and a knowledgeable staff.

The last step deals with going through your stuff to determine what you will keep, donate, and throw out. Once you have decluttered your home, you will feel better and appreciate a job well done. The space you have cleared can be used for fun things (e.g., a hobby) or remain clear as a reminder to not accumulate junk.

At Berks Transfer, we are ready to help you declutter your home by providing the dumpster that meets your needs. We have 12-, 20-, 30- and 40-yard containers at affordable rates. Plus, you can bring us your junk that will fit your car! Contact us today to learn how we can help you have a great January decluttering!

Top Three Care Tips for Your Container in Winter

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 21:24:59 GMT

Although winter is here, there are still projects going on that require containers. There are cleanouts, renovations and remodeling that will have dumpsters on job sites and driveways. And with any piece of equipment, there are steps that must be taken to make sure they are in optimal working condition during rain or snow events. Let’s take a look at the top three care tips for when you rent a roll-off container in the winter season.

1. Use a Tarp – This may seem to be an inconvenience by having to move the tarp to throw debris into it, but covering your container keeps your debris from getting wet from rain or snow as well as filling up with snow. Water-logged debris becomes heavier, which adds weight and can freeze to the sides of the container.

2. Keep the Dumpster Area Clear – Keeping the area (e.g., driveways and sidewalks) around the container clear of snow and ice keeps you, the roll-off driver, and workers safe. A cleared work area also helps to keep the dumpster from slipping during a delivery or pick up. Applying salt rock around the container will also help to prevent injuries when filling the dumpster.

3. Keep A Path Cleared – In addition to keeping work area clear of snow, there should be a path clear of snow and ice so the truck can get to it. It is helpful to have a path plotted out before the dumpster arrives.

Just because its winter doesn’t mean you have to put your project on hold. By using these tips, you can have a great container experience even if there’s bad weather. At Berks Transfer, our knowledgeable staff can help you rent the right dumpster for your project. Contact us today to learn more about our containers!

Top Four Items that Are Thrown Away During the Holidays

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Mon, 05 Dec 2022 21:18:29 GMT

It is a given that there will be more trash during the holidays. According to Stanford University , there is a 25% increase in trash from Thanksgiving Day to New Year’s Day. That’s an astounding 25 million tons of garbage! Out of all the garbage, there are certain items that are thrown away the most during this period. Let’s take a look at the top four items thrown away during the holidays.

While these items will still be thrown away this holiday season, the amount will be reduced due to more recyclable options and sustainable packaging. At Berks Transfer, we know the impact trash has on our landfills and the environment not just during the holidays, but all year long. We are always ready to answer questions and to provide our customers with efficient solutions for trash and junk disposal. Contact us today to learn more!

Top Four Safety Rules for Using a Dumpster

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 12:30:08 GMT

Like any piece of equipment, there are rules to safely operate it. The same goes for dumpsters . They are seen as equipment because they serve a purpose and can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Now you may be wondering how a person can use a dumpster incorrectly. It’s easier than you think. We see dumpsters that are filled too high, not on stable ground or used as a fire pit. Dumpsters make our lives easier by providing a central location to receive junk and/or trash with a scheduled delivery and pickup. There are no repeated trips to a disposal facility or figuring out what to put out for curbside pickup. There are rules to ensure the safety of person renting the dumpster as well as the crew using it. Let’s take a look at the top four safety rules for using dumpsters.

1. Place the dumpster in safe space. The dumpster should be placed on a flat surface that allows for plenty of space on all sides, especially for delivery and pickup. It should be in a central location close to the building’s exterior to simplify workflow. Also, the container should be free from hazards, such as traffic, heat sources or slippery surfaces.

2. Do not overload a dumpster. The waste should not exceed the wall height of the container. This prevents spillage when moving it and does not obscure the view of the building. The waste should be equally distributed in the container to prevent tipping and damaging the ground underneath it.

3. Do not place hazardous materials in the dumpster. Although this may seem obvious, there are chemicals that should not be placed in a container to prevent a fire, toxic fumes, a chemical reaction, or corrosion. These chemicals are easily found in basement and garage cleanouts – lighter fluid, pesticides, and paint thinners to name a few. Be sure to check with the dumpster rental provider on which liquids (if any) can be placed in the container.

4. Practice fire safety. Materials in dumpsters can easily catch on fire, especially paper and wood products. The dumpster should be kept away from heat sources. Smoking next to the dumpster is prohibited since cigarette butts, match books and even lighters can cause a fire in the container.

It’s important to follow these safety rules to not only protect the dumpster, but to also protect the crew, the property, and the public. When a dumpster is used correctly, projects can go more smoothly. At Berks Transfer, the safety of our customers and our team is of great importance. We strive to provide the best customer experience, whether you are using our do-it-yourself drop off or unloading a roll off. Contact us today to learn more!

It’s Time for a Fall Cleanup!

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 19:02:30 GMT

Fall is here and it’s the perfect time to for a cleanup! We can’t help but cringe when we hear this word. Yet, it is something that needs to be done at least once a year. However, it’s a good idea to do a cleanup (or cleanout) at the start of every season. There are several reasons why a fall cleanup is needed, such as disposing of yard debris and hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

Summer can do a number on your yard, including gardens and trees. If the summer heat damaged your grass prompting the need for reseeding, then you will need to core-aerate and add compost to improve soil fertility. Pruning trees and bushes are another task for the yard. Summer storms are also hard on trees and can cause quite a bit of damage (i.e., fallen limbs). Let’s not forget about your deck. Are there cracked boards? Is your outdoor furniture on its last legs? To dispose safely and properly of yard debris, old deck boards, or old outdoor furniture, putting them at the curb is not the solution. It’s much easier and safer to get a dumpster to handle all of it. Plus, you can use the dumpster for the items you are going to get rid of in your home.

Cleaning out your home at the start of fall will get you in the mindset for an organized home and to get ready for the holidays. When was the last time you cleaned out the basement, attic or garage? It’s easy to use them to store things that really need to be discarded, such as old magazines, clothes, and toys. It’s also good to take inventory of your holiday decorations. Are they cracked, faded, or broken? They too need to go into the dumpster. Also, what about the hazardous and non-hazardous waste in the garage?

Hazardous waste includes pesticides, paint and stains that are spent or expired, whereas non-hazardous waste are items that aren’t toxic and are hard to recycle (e.g., appliances and propane tanks). While you are separating the hazardous from the non-hazardous, you’ll find yourself getting rid of items that are cluttering up your home.

Most people say they don’t need a dumpster when cleaning up their yard and/or cleaning out their home – until they see just how much junk and debris they need to dispose. At Berks Transfer , we are here to help you tackle your cleanup. We offer 12, 20, 30 and 40-yard dumpsters at great rates! We make it easy for you to use one by delivering and picking it up. Give us a call today at 610-926-7626 to plan your fall cleanup!

Get Ready for the Fall Hazardous Waste Cleanup!

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 18:45:11 GMT

When we think of hazardous waste, an image of a 55-gallon yellow drum with the black hazardous (or toxic) waste symbol on it pops into our heads. This is courtesy of television shows and movies. However, hazardous waste is much more. It’s actually in our homes and businesses. How, you ask? To answer this question, we must first define what hazardous waste is: any product that is labeled toxic, flammable, explosive, corrosive, volatile (or any combination of these hazardous waste characteristics). You might also find a skull and crossbones symbol or a warning on the product. Thus, these products are used to clean, get rid of insects, keep our car engines running, stain furniture and more.

Since these types of products are deemed hazardous, we simply cannot put them out at the curb for trash pickup. We must dispose of them responsibly. This is where the Berks County Solid Waste Authority comes into the picture. Created in 1992 by the Berks County Commissioners, this organization's goals are to protect the health and welfare of Berks County residents and to safely manage and implement a Solid Waste Plan . One of the ways residents can dispose of their hazardous waste is at the Berks County Household Hazardous Waste Cleanup.

This event will take place on October 15, 2022, at the Berks County Ag Center. This is a safe and easy way to get rid of the hazardous waste products in your home or office. The event is for Berks County residents ONLY and you must pre-register for it. Accepted materials at this event include pesticides, antifreeze, pool chemicals, lithium and NiCad batteries and oil-based paints. Please note there is a list of materials that are not allowed . Plus, you are to bring your hazardous waste products in their original containers (tightly sealed) and put them in the trunk of your vehicle. Those working at the event will unload your car for you (please stay in your vehicle at all times).

We hope you take part in this event! It’s a great way to clean out your home or business and to properly dispose of these products. To register and for more information, please go to https://www.co.berks.pa.us/dept/swa/Pages/default.aspx .

Putting a Spotlight on Trash During the Pandemic

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Mon, 22 Aug 2022 16:13:42 GMT

The way trash is being handled is something that is being closely looked at over the term of this pandemic. It’s not something that most people talk about, and it’s certainly not the most interesting topic, right? Yet, we need to talk about it because of the contagion factor due to what sanitation workers touch daily and that they must report to work. This has put a spotlight on trash management during the pandemic.

When it comes to trash, the U.S. has a lot of it! According to USA Today , the U.S. produces more waste than most countries and we recycle less. The amount is staggering: the United Stated produces 258 million tons of trash each year and it’s collected in various ways. Residents in single-family homes generally place waste containers at the end of their driveways (curbside) for pickup. People who own townhomes or condos commonly have containers or dumpsters onsite. The same is true for many apartment complexes. Businesses operate much in the same way but have specific protocols and standards to which they’re held to depending on their location (i.e., covered containers, separate recycling requirements, etc.). How trash is handled is equally important, especially when comes to protecting the health and safety of sanitation workers.

Ensuring that your waste is in trash bags and tied securely shut is imperative; this helps to keep contamination levels low. The well-being of waste employees should be paramount as well. These folks are an essential and critical part of our workforce. They need to work every day and are key in keeping society healthy in general. Due to how easily the virus spreads, we must be more considerate in how our trash is put out and how it affects sanitation employees.

Cindy Neuroth , a trash company owner from Sioux City, S.D. puts it this way: “Nobody thinks of the

garbage man. Like, we always say, you know, nobody notices us until the garbage ain’t picked up, and then they notice us.” She’s absolutely right. We don’t think about the trash man or woman. Most people don’t even take the time to care about protective measures for them. The rate at which trash is produced hasn’t slowed down, and trash companies can’t afford to slow down if their employees get sick.

According to WebMD , the amount of residential waste has risen 30% since the pandemic began due to family members remaining home, telecommuting or schooling youngsters at home. It’s very likely that percentage is much higher in communities which have a less commercial and more housing presence.

The more trash, the more that must be picked up; this increases the risk of contracting the virus. What

can compound the issue is a trash removal delay. If there are fewer employees working, it will take longer for trash pickups. This could cause citizens to take their frustrations out on their garbage company.

While it’s a forgone conclusion that certain people will get sick, there must be a plan in place to help one another during this health crisis, and not because it’s “required” of us to do so or because it’s mandated. We should do it because we’re decent human beings. We must realize the strain the pandemic puts on trash companies (operations and employees). By putting a spotlight on trash management during a pandemic, we can see how important it is to keep workers safe and operations running at peak levels. Thus, a plan and more consideration are greatly needed for handling trash during the pandemic.

Recycling...The Ugly Truth

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 19:25:42 GMT

Source: Himanshu Bhatt/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Back in the early 90’s, the U.S. began sending recyclables overseas to China. By offshoring the plastics that were of the least value to us, we avoided dealing with the disposal of the material by paying someone else to take it.

By not paying for domestic disposal, we “may” have saved money in the short term. Long term, however, there was a price to pay for that decision, which was seeing paper and plastics wash into oceans and rivers at an alarming rate. The consequence has become the need for what is presently a $150 Billion dollar need in oceanic clean-ups (yes, that’s billion, with a B). Winnie Lau , Project Director of Preventing Ocean Plastics for The PEW Charitable Trust , said it best: “The world needs a plan.”

People have to want to invest in research and technology to address the crisis. Determining more imaginative uses and better uses for the waste will allow us to ramp up the development of peer-to-peer recycling for everything we use; whether it’s plastic bottles, such as DAK Americas does, or creating products, such as outdoor furniture or even Pilot Pens. We created way too much of this waste in the first place because we’re lazy. We want disposable-everything, and we’d rather pay for “convenience” instead of giving a thought to the consequences. In the US, we recycle less than 10% of the plastic we use.

What good is teaching the kids in school to sort plastic, paper and trash if the adults aren’t going to do the same at home? What kind of message does it send? Fortunately, there are corporations, communities and employers who work hard to manage recycling and waste decisions to mitigate pollution and create sustainable options. But, far and away, most are not doing that.

Individually, what can we do that’s actually going to make a difference? Hire a trash hauler whom you know is handling recyclables separately. Will it cost more money? Yes, absolutely it will. It requires a different truck, a different route, and different disposal costs, which must be offset with a separate fee/charge.

Don’t wait for a teacher to tell your kids to sort and recycle. It has to begin at home. Education regarding what petroleum products do to the oceans is a good start. National Geographic notes that eight million tons of trash enters the oceans each year. The simple fact is if we consume less “disposable” material, and utilize what we purchase, there’s hope. Bottle Bills are one way encourage participation in recycling. In the states that have such bills, there’s a huge downturn in the amount of litter, which it encourages residents to dispose of bottles and glass containers properly, to guarantee their refunds.

For students considering a career in recycling and sustainability, Times Higher Education maintains a great list of the top schools for degree programs. The industry could grow ten-fold, and there would still be enough of this waste around to keep the business sector busy for a long time to come.

Cleaning is Good for Your Mental Health

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 20 May 2022 19:15:51 GMT

If you could imagine that our mothers were right, that you do feel better with a clean and organized surrounding. You mentally feel better from having accomplished the task. A recent interview with Dr. Dawn Potter at The Cleveland Clinic touches on exactly that. She stated that anxiety, stress, and the inability to focus are impacted by clutter and mess; people can feel overwhelmed when their work area(s) are untidy.

Potter discusses that sometimes a surge in energy and the “need” to clean and organize is addressing the need for order. As a waste industry professional, we hear it from customers on a regular basis. They indicate how amazing it feels to get rid of the clutter, and many point out that it was also a great workout.

Last year, many people spent a lot of time at home due to the lock-downs. Some were project hounds; they accomplished tasks that were put off to meet the demands of work and commitments outside of the home. Others suffered from depression and sadness in addition to being overwhelmed by the isolation. In cases where hoarding was already a problem, the difficulty became more pronounced.

Some of our customers indicate they just had enough of the mess or disorder in their homes by the time they call for our services. At times, it’s a pending sale or a passing of a family member that warrants a cleanout. Whatever the catalyst for a deep clean, everyone agrees it is cathartic. The decision, action, and the result are all positive things.

If you’re stuck in a funk and need help to declutter, call a friend or a relative to pitch in. Regardless of whether it’s an office, a closet, or a whole house cleanout, eliminating the clutter and by making a concrete decision to do something about it will improve your mood as well as change your surroundings. However, a deep clean isn’t an easy task for hoarders.

Keeping Raccoons out of Garbage & Trash Cans

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 06 May 2022 19:42:04 GMT

Credit: Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control

Anyone who’s had to deal with raccoons getting in their trash cans knows it can be a nightmare. Whether they knock over the cans and leave a mess or not, it’s important to get rid of them. Raccoons are not normally aggressive; but one doesn’t know if the raccoon he or she encounters is rabid or not. Why take a chance?

Raccoons eat anything and everything. Getting rid of them doesn’t mean they’ll starve. They’ll simply find somewhere else to graze. They can get into anything because of their dexterous fingers – and they will.

Those that can keep containers inside a garage until “trash-day” will have the best result in keeping raccoons and pests away from receptacles. If that’s not an option, there are other ways to mitigate problems:

1. Lock Your Trash Cans – Whether you have a locking unit, or must use a bungee, it’s a good first step.

2. Clean Your Cans – Ensure that you always keep clean cans – inside and outside.

3. Getting Rid of Sticky Things – Power-washing helps to rid anything stuck inside can and reduces odor.

4. Avoid Letting Trash Sit on the Ground – Make sure you don’t let any trash or food waste sit on the ground in trash bags or boxes. It’s best to put food waste into trash bags and then into cans.

If you have repeat offenders, try using a raccoon repellent such as “Critter Ridder”™ (non-hazardous spray). Mint trash bags help too. A strong peppermint oil gets on their hands and they HATE it. You can even make your own spray by using peppermint oil and water or alcohol.

If you have an issue with raccoons doing damage to your property or in a garage to access containers, you can call reach out to your local municipality or township. If they do not offer pest removal, there are pest control companies whom you can hire to help.

Trash Caulin

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 17:07:57 GMT

There are people that deserve to be recognized for their efforts to make a real difference in society. One of those people is Caulin Donaldson. He’s a 25 year-old on a mission and a TikTok influencer from Florida. Caulin’s mission is to get residents and visitors to spread the word about taking care of the environment.

Caulin has amassed an amazing 1.4 million followers on TikTok alone. He’s also got a Facebook page, where he discusses the fact that people love their beaches, their parks, their playgrounds – yet they don’t clean up those spaces regularly.

Litter and trash begets more mess. It’s a fact. When a public space is kept clean, the tendency for people to do the right thing, and use receptacles repeats itself. When a public space is not kept clean, there’s much more of a tendency for it to get worse.

Caulin is the recipient of the KAB Vision for America Award in 2021 for Social Impact Leadership. Hence, his mindset and his mission should be contagious. He supports the mission of the Great American Cleanup and is an inspiring young man.

Teaming up with friends, family, businesses and neighbors to manage one area at a time, protects the environment, keeps you active, and keeps our surroundings beautiful, as they should be. The more often we participate in these projects, the easier it is to manage them. By just having quarterly clean-ups at your local parks and schools helps to ensure that the places our children frequent and play, are safe and clean.

Knowing that people need tools, Caulin created a “Free Cleanup Kit” for anyone who offered to volunteer for the Great American Cleanup. You can see his video on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/TrashCaulin/?ref=page_internal . Below are additional places you can find his wonderful content.

SUBSCRIBE on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3dCVyDi
Follow @trashcaulin on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3rAqo63
Follow @trashcaulin on TikTok: https://bit.ly/3wYepAk
Follow @down2earth365 on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3kTDryf
Follow @down2.earth on TikTok: https://bit.ly/3iOM7mE
Follow Earth Care on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3sSQK32

Per person…the most waste. And it’s not a prize we want!

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 17:23:05 GMT

Does it shock anyone that the U.S. generates more waste per person than any nation on earth? No? We are. In fact, the U.S. is the most wasteful country on the planet. According to a report provided by the Natural Resources Defense Council, the U.S. accounts for only 4% of the world’s population, yet generates 12% of the planet’s municipal solid waste. American consumers produce nearly a ton of trash every year.

Consumerism sounds oddly like a religion; but it’s our culture. It’s all about convenience. Order online. Get it in a box on the front door-step. If it doesn’t arrive in a box, it comes in a bag; often with bubble wrap or packing materials. Lots and lots of waste and much of it is non-recyclable. The process repeats and repeats throughout the year, all across the country. Even packaging that is recyclable ends up being thrown away in regular trash disposal versus being sent to any recycling processor.

The NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council, founded in 1970 by a group of law students and attorneys focused on the environmental movement, describes the problem as a global one. The research firm providing data to NRDC, Verisk Maplecroft , cited “2.1 billion tons of municipal solid waste” produced annually, which predominately comes from highly developed countries like the U.S. and Europe.

A recent article, by Lauren Leibhaber Stacker, titled: “What 60 Year of Data Tell Us About Our Garbage Habits” explains:

Trash generation in the U.S. has significant global implications. As a byproduct of the 2020 Trade Wars, China

is no longer buying and importing America’s trash for recycling….China was importing an average of 429 shipping containers from the U.S. each day full of plastic alone. When you factor in other types of trash sent overseas, the number of containers jumps to 4,000 daily ….America’s trash continues to be exported overseas to Africa and Asia, but now to countries less capable of recycling or disposing of this waste in environmentally conscious ways. It is estimated that 51% of these exports are mismanaged , ending up in oceans, rivers, country sides, and other natural resources.

Waste management needs to be a priority. Governance at the municipal and state-level will allow for true environmental management and sustainable practice success. Focus also needs to be placed on commercial entities to assign financial responsibility equal to the amount of waste they produce. Want to learn more? Check out https://www.npr.org/2020/09/11/897692090/how-big-oil-misled-the-public-into-believing-plastic-would-be-recycled .

Beam Me Up, Scotty!

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 18:45:48 GMT

The idea that self-driving cars would come around in our lifetime was incredible. Now, Volvo , who’s been an innovation leader in the trucking industry, has created an autonomous garbage truck. Volvo had announced in 2015 that it was developing a robot to “pick up trash bins and take them to a garbage truck.” Even prior to 2015, their research and development created the autonomous garbage truck, which went into live testing in 2017. So, how does it work?

A Truck with a Brain

A truck route is pre-programmed for the vehicle, so it knows where to go. The location of the trash cans (the bins we place at the end of our driveways) are mapped as well. There is always a human being working with the route, who utilizes a wireless e-stop process to override or change the action of the truck, if necessary. Lidar sensors guide the action of the mapping for the truck.

Starting price for a regular passenger vehicle with Lidar sensors start at around $75,000; so one can only imagine the price tag of these refuse vehicles. At the time of this print, I’m unable to verify pricing for these trucks. The cars were equipped back in 2018 , and were expected to come to market this year (2022). The Lidar sensors alone range from about $1200 to $12,000 depending on the application.

The truck is guided by human personnel — even to reverse the vehicle. The sensors on the truck allow for safety and stopping. It’s amazing to watch the vehicle in action !

I’m a fan of automation, however, the idea that personnel with eyes and ears will be diminished on a route falls flat with me. The technology is too “new” for me to back. The reality is, something like this would not be seen here stateside until pricing was stable, and transition to service was funded to create jobs (and not eliminate them). Until then, I am happy with my non-automated garbage truck.

Ways to Reduce Food Waste Recovery in the US

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 21:28:59 GMT

Despite how expensive food has become, American’s waste quite a bit. In fact, according to Waste 360 , we throw away an astronomical $218 billion dollars’ worth of food each year.

The fact that households, schools, restaurants and businesses may not presently have plans in place to deal with food waste is a simple thing to fix. Some chains go above and beyond to donate unsold food to people in need; and are a model for others. “Day-End Dough Nation” is a program created by Panera, who boxes up any unsold food at day end and donates it to food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, churches, and alike. Volunteers from “receiving” organizations go to Panera after-closing for pickup. Panera makes it easy for groups to sign up for participation in the program and groups can participate more than once a week, if needed.

Small businesses and restaurants can create similar programs by working with local churches, food banks, and halfway houses. Families can easily create less food waste and make an impact. Simple steps at home, like composting fruits and vegetables, eggshells, coffee, and bones, creates less waste going to landfills.

There are innovative products coming to the market from companies such Kickstarter , featuring products to make life easier and reduce waste. Recently, I purchased a counter-top composter. It’s portable and stays right on the kitchen counter. You scrape scraps into it each day and allow it to process overnight. It makes compost that can be used in my garden, my lawn, and even houseplants.

Schools can build recycling activities into educational programs daily, by teaching students to sort their food waste from their “trash” in the cafeteria into separate containers provided by the school. It demonstrates the ease in which they can make an impact.

Simple things we can do at work, at school and at home can put a dent into the waste and provide a valuable service to others at the same time. Hopefully, we will have more organizations signing up to receive unsold food as well as more people pitching in to solve the food waste issue by year end.

How to Dispose Hoverboards

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 21:33:37 GMT

We received a call today from a customer who wanted to know what to do with her kids’ old hover boards , since they received new ones for Christmas. It was a question I’ve never received before, but recalled reading an article several years ago about hover boards exploding -- and even seeing videos of them on fire. I told her I’d have to research the information and get back to her.

Back around 2015, the hover boards were a hit that holiday season. Shortly after Christmas, the US Product Safety Commission began receiving calls that batteries were catching fire on some of the units, especially when they were overcharged. However, they also got calls that fires were occurring when the product was in use. They also had reports of units “not” in use, and “not” plugged in catching fire. Holy smokes, Santa…not the gift that keeps on giving!

Since then, the UL testing has been very aggressive, and improvements to the components and product re-designs have made the hover boards safe. However, the issue of disposal of the units still remains.

The product must go to an electronic recycle r , not a landfill and not a transfer station. The components are recycled and processed just as a television or a computer (E-Waste) would be. As far as updated safety, usage tips and regulations, you can find them on the US Product and Safety Commission website. You should contact your town or municipality to determine if you have an electronic recycler in your community, or if your County offers free disposal.

Waste Management versus Total Waste

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 18:22:21 GMT

The New York Post recently published an article about a Chilean desert showing 39,000 pounds of scrapped clothing. Chile receives 59,000 tons annually . The photographs made me sick, for several reasons. The litter was scattered throughout the desert floor, and it looked like a bomb went off. When one considers the places that clothing could have been sent to, and what a wasteful society we’ve become, it’s senseless.

There are many companies who, rather than donate, dispose of perfectly useable goods. Their claim is that it’s more cost effective. The bottom-line is what many of these companies consider that their only goal. We say there are other options.

Credit: Getty Images Picture Alliance

Texitle & Clothing Waste

As a transfer station, we process up to 1,000 tons of waste each day. We understand that there is textile and clothing waste that absolutely cannot be salvaged due to environmental or contamination issues. However, we ask forward-thinking organizations to make solid decisions about what real waste looks like – and how to mitigate it.

Observing larger chain-store procedures, a great deal of clothing waste is shipped away from stores in shipping containers bound for disposal. What if we could divert some or all of the waste by using re-selling, or donating “good” (sometimes new with tags) products, and recycle even more?

Reuse & Recycle Textiles

Enter Fabscrap . They are a Brooklyn-based, non-profit textile reuse and recycle firm. Fabscrap opened a Mid-Atlantic hub in Philadelphia in November 2021. Initially, they worked with fashion and entertainment companies. They have now expanded to brands and stores in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, DC, and southern New Jersey. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer , “the facility works with local recycling company, Retrievr, a residential textile collection company, to collect waste here. The 6,800 square-foot location houses 16 fabric sorting stations, a fabric re-sale shop and an area to showcase the work of one designer a month who uses recycled materials in their clothes.”

There are plenty of options to deal with clothing “waste.” Fabscrap and recyclers are one way to divert waste and maximize re-use. At Berks Transfer, we can move the product that needs to get to and from sorting stations. We also help with the disposal solutions for the product that actually “is” waste. Call us at 610-926-7626 X305, or email jcampbell@esreading.com to see how we can help your firm with its disposal and recycling needs.

Battery Disposal & Recycling Update: Good Things Coming in 2022

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 17:54:54 GMT

Last year, I touched on the impact of batteries on the environment, and why it’s so important that batteries are not placed in our dumpsters at job sites; or dumped by households whose haulers bring them here unknowingly. This year, it seems we have exciting news on that front.

First, a reminder of the dangers of improper disposal. Damage to soil, the poisoning of waterways and over-all damage to the environment can’t be understated. While some people and corporations unwittingly dispose of all kinds of batteries, others do so intentionally -- and it’s a crime.

Last month, the George Town Landfill in the Cayman Islands faced damage due to a car battery being illegally disposed of. Their local fire department had to remain on-site for one full week to monitor and extinguish flare-ups. Sadly, the same site had a similar fire from a cell-phone battery explosion in buried debris in January of 2021.

George Town Landfill, Cayman Islands (December 2021)

The public is responsible to properly handle disposal in order to protect one another. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a cell-phone, automotive battery, or household battery . The risk of combustion requires separating it from other waste, so it can be properly processed for disposal and now, thankfully, recycling..

Enter Battery Resourcers , located in Georgia, who will be “North America’s single largest recycling operation to extract lithium, cobalt and nickel from discarded lithium-ion batteries and scrap.” They’ll be capable of processing an amazing 30,000 metric tons per year. This comes at a critical time in this country because so many electric vehicles are coming into production. Hence, Battery Resources will be able to address the need for a sustainable recycling model for other companies.

When recycling car batteries, there is a fee. Car battery recycling fees (when you purchase a battery and have yours disposed of) cost approximately $18.00 in the Berks County, PA area. However, other options can be found on the County of Berks website .

Dumpster Diving Investigators & Improper Waste Disposal

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 14:29:26 GMT

As a Transfer Station operating in Berks County, PA, we sometimes come across contents that should never wind up our containers. It’s a hassle, and a paperwork nightmare. Most people do not understand the willful violations that occur every day, nor the consequences of those actions.

Some companies fail to properly train employees on what can or cannot go into regular waste containers. One such company faced a massive amount of fines only to get burned again when failing to enforce proper disposal requirements.

In 2015, Home Depot felt the wrath of their own actions. According to a report by Davis, Wright, Tremaine LLP , Home Depot had over three-hundred infractions cited due to improper handling of waste. They stated:

“From 2013 through 2015, investigators checked trash dumpsters from Home Depot stores. Based on what they found, the California Attorney General, and various District Attorney’s (collectively, the “State”) brought a claim with astronomical potential penalties for what they found.”

They agreed to pay $27.8 million to settle the claim. Documentation shows that three hundred stores were involved, and that investigators completed “dumpster dives” at the retailers’ locations, discovering batteries, aerosol cans, and electronic devices along with paint.

In addition to the fines, Home Depot was required to spend over $6,000,000 to create “compliance programs” to mitigate the over $3,000,000 in penalties. Inspection programs and tracking systems are in place company-wide now. It took the chain two sets of penalties to learn this very expensive lesson. In 2007, they’d faced a $9,900,000 penalty for the same thing. Ouch.

Do the right thing with waste. Companies like ours, and our sister company, Elk Environmental Services , are set up to do the right thing with your non-hazardous and hazardous waste. Reach out to Berks Transfer at 610-926-7626 X305 with any questions related to your non-hazardous waste. Should you need assistance with a hazardous waste quote or profile, call 610-372-4760 .

Wind Power Disposal Problems…And Possible Solutions

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 13:32:49 GMT

Wind energy, like other energy, has its pros and cons. Everything that’s produced to “create” energy, requires energy to “produce” and yet more energy for disposal. Eventually, everything breaks down. For wind turbines, the shelf-life is about 20 years.

Until recently, there’s not been an option for wind power turbine disposal. The material used for the turbines includes fiberglass, cement, metals, resin and more. Most wind turbines, and solar panels, presently wind up in landfills.

The shut-down or disposal for wind-turbines is a process called decommissionin g . The Institute for Energy describes it as, “…the removal of all physical materia l and equipment related to the project to a depth of about 48 inches. Most concrete foundations used to anchor the wind turbi nes are as deep as 15 feet. The concrete bases are hard to fully remove, and the rotor blades contain glass and carbon filters which give off dust and toxic gases. Researchers estimate the United States will have more than 720,000 tons of blade material to dispose of over the next 20 years; a figure that does not include newer, taller, higher-capacity wind turbines.”

Another mind-blowing figure is the decommissioning cost. Xcel Energy, which supplies power to Minnesota, Colorado and Wisconsin, did a study in 2019. Results show decommissioning of the Noble Wind facility in southwest Minnesota would cost over $71 million dollars (a whopping $532,000 per turbine).

When it comes to an energy solution, Texas is a state desperate for one as well as disposal options. Ice storms in 2021 destroyed a massive amount of turbines. MidAmerican Energy hired Carbon Rivers Recycling to remove damaged turbines for recycling. They come in with excavators and modified with saws to cut the blades, so they fit on regular flatbed trucks. Those trucks then transport to Knoxville, Tennessee, where the turbines are broken down, sorted, and processed for disposal and re-use capabilities. It’s a lot of work per turbine.

The ultimate goal would be to localize efforts to educate municipalities, corporations and land owners on the decommissioning process and disposal costs, since the useful-life of the turbines is so short.

Here in Pennsylvania, we have twenty-seven wind farms in operation. According to the Department of Environmental Protection , they provide power to nearly 350,000 homes. Although the Department has a voluntary agreement with Pennsylvania Game Commission to protect wildlife resources, there’s not much detail as to disposal efforts and requirements. Decommissioning is addressed by the Department’s document titled: “ Model Ordinance for Wind Energy Facilities in Pennsylvania.”

Disposal Challenges with Artificial Turf

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 18:06:51 GMT

This month’s issue of Waste Advantage featured an article about Pennsylvania becoming home to an exciting new business. Re-Match , is an international recycler of artificial turf fields. They’ve chosen Luzerne County as new home to its first North American recycling facility. The investment for the project will cost $12.2 million dollars.

There’s a huge demand for artificial turf all over the country; as schools, sports complexes and businesses make the shift from having to maintain, chemically treat and water facilities. So, how big is the business? Apparently, it’s huge.

Think about the fact that a football field is 57,000 square feet. A running track, at a typical high schoo,l is 33,000 feet. Many schools have artificial indoor and outdoor soccer, lacrosse, and football fields. Add to that the private facilities, the colleges and universities, NFL, MLB, municipal and state recreational sites. It’s a huge amount of material that has a shelf life of about ten years, according to most experts. According to a recent post at Bobscaping , “Pete Myers of Environmental Health News brought to light additional concerns about artificial turf, including the fact that there were 120 tons (240,000 pounds) of artificial turf disposed from just two soccer fields in Virginia.”

People in our industry are calling this the next tire crisis. The US has millions of pounds of tires that don’t wind up where they’re supposed to. All tires should be disposed of outside of a landfill; where the rubber is separated from the metals, and as much product put into re-use as possible.

With the artificial turf, they use the ground up rubber from tires. So, we’ve created a “use” for the tires, but perhaps have failed to address the disposal issues with the turf. What Re-Match does is pretty amazing. They separate the materials ; including sand, backing, rubber and plastic fibers to use in other production cycles – even making new synthetic turf with it.

Should your organization need transport to such facilities, please reach out to Berks Transfer at 610-926-7626 X305 , and we can arrange container service for your turf removal, and transportation to your recycling or disposal site.

Illegal Dumping Is Called Illegal for a Reason

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 21:07:45 GMT

Some people drive by dumpsters on job sites, and think for some odd reason, that it’s okay for them to throw away a crib, boxes, a sofa, or a swing set (yes, it’s happened) in someone else’s container.

This time of year, many businesses and residents are doing a final push for exterior projects and so we have many containers out. We receive calls here at the office asking if it’s okay to put trash in “our” dumpster at a location. They provide a number of reasons for the dump: “It’s just a bit,” “it’s my wife’s bicycle, she doesn’t use it anymore,” or “I’m clearing out for the holidays.”

What folks don’t understand is that the dumpster and the weight in it, is being paid for by a contractor, a business, or a homeowner. The question and permission are to be addressed with them. Also, we must take into consideration for local laws.

Laws differ in each municipality, but a misdemeanor is going to be a minimum charge if you’re caught. Thankfully, for many of our local families and business owners, security systems with cameras are frequently in place to assist in identifying criminals who dump illegally. So, this begs the question: Wouldn’t it make more sense to rent a dumpster?

Or ask permission of a business or homeowner before being so callous and brazen to dump illegally? Would you go up to a job site and use their power tools without permission? Would you go into someone’s yard and put your trash in their regular trash cans? Putting your trash in their dumpsters is the same crime. You’re trespassing, dumping illegally, and costing someone else money.

If you see illegal dumping, call the Police Department Non-Emergency number in your area immediately. If you can safely get a license plate and a description of a vehicle involved, please do so. Don’t try to apprehend someone yourself.

If you’re renting a container, keep in mind that it should be as close to a job site as possible. Don’t leave dumpsters dormant for a long period of time. It sends the message that a site is not being maintained or monitored on a regular basis. Let’s put trash where it legally belongs.

Mask Disposal: A Litter issue

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 20:12:42 GMT

Most of us have noticed that masks, like other waste, has become litter. In the streets, parking lots, parks…being strewn about. There are surgical and N95 masks everywhere. The fact that they are “disposable” is no reason to discard them haphazardly. They are continuously improperly disposed of everywhere.

If one can imagine 1.56 billion masks needing to be disposed of – it’s overwhelming. That’s what we’re going to see, according to OceansAsia, an organization dedicated to research and intelligence gathering for wildlife crimes and protecting marine ecosystems. The masks are piling up at beaches and will continue to do so for a long time. They state that there will be an added “4,860 to 6,240 tons of extra plastic waste in the ocean” from masks alone.

What can we do to prevent masks from polluting streams, rivers, beaches and oceans? Wrapping disposable masks in other paper trash helps, as does keeping a plastic bag separate for them (in terms of waste management). It may or may not have any impact on whether virus particles are still present; but at this time, there’s no regulatory oversight for non-commercial use on the subject. So, we don’t know. One simply needs to use common sense and respect when it comes to disposal options. Remember, no one should have to pick up a mask worn by someone else simply to rid of it properly.

The obvious choice to eliminate disposal issues is to wear a re-usable, washable mask. Like anything, a one-and-done approach to usage never makes sense from an environmental perspective.

If you’re an employer with a face mask requirement, you can locate medical waste processing and hauling companies who accept pickups for medical waste.

Regardless of what type of mask you utilize, it’s imperative to keep in mind the environmental impact it has when improperly discarded.

Prepping for Dumpster Delivery

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 20:04:20 GMT

Once you’ve rented a dumpster for your project, you need to prep your site for dumpster delivery and use. There are three steps to this process.

First, move all vehicles and other objects away from your delivery area. It’s important to note that even though your dumpster may be 12 feet to 22 feet long , the truck that delivers it needs sixty feet to execute the drop and release of the container safely. The width of the surrounding area is important also, as the truck needs an eleven-foot clearance as a minimum.

Second, check for service wires in and around the area. These include cable, television, and any communication wires. Although the minimum height for them is no lower than 17 feet, it’s often the case that these wires dip or drop over time.

Third, once you’ve cleared your area, and certain that obstacles are clear, mark the space that you’d like the container to be placed. As long as the dispatcher or driver knows what to look for (i.e., traffic cone, 5-gallon bucket, etc.), it will make your process go more smoothly. Since containers and the trucks that carry them weigh quite a bit, you may wish to provide scrap wood for the wheels to rest on. We always ask that someone be available for questions or assistance for our driver. You don’t necessarily have to be onsite, but reachable by phone. This way, we can ensure the dumpster is placed in a safe spot that suits your needs.

We always remind customers to reach out to their township and municipalities prior to renting the container, as individual locations and neighborhoods have restrictions on container usage. For instance, hospital routes, evacuation routes, and school zones may impede whether containers can be placed and may change what times we can be of service to you. If your township or municipality requires a permit for the container, it must be obtained prior to calling for your reservation, and should be placed in a street-facing window for the duration of your project.

Is E-Waste is finally waning? It depends on how you look at it.

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 20:29:52 GMT

With the introduction of modern technology, we’re seeing a decline in bulkier electronics in the waste stream. The first thing going by the wayside are CRT (cathode ray tube) televisions. Modern flat-screen televisions make for so much less waste. It’s not just the bulk of these products, but the weight that makes such a difference. And it's not just televisions that are being replaced.

Large servers and desktops have been replaced by tablets and laptops in many homes and businesses as well. According a recent study completed by the Yale School of the Environment’s Center for Industrial Technology, the “total mass of electronic waste generated by Americans has been declining since 2015.” The study explains that we should be re-thinking e-waste regulations and laws; as past regulations were based on product mass versus capturing the trace metals that are used in the vast majority of these products.

Computer liquidation and monitor recycling firms exist throughout the country; many of whom can provide the information about recycling or disposal for this type of waste. Some of these centers are run by state, county, and municipalities. Silver, aluminum, platinum, palladium, copper and even gold are components captured for re-use. Businesses can sell scrap product on a large scale. That’s why companies encourage trade-in of broken or defective electronics (e.g., phones). They’ve already marked-up your “new” phone and will scrap metal from your “old” phone (which you paid a mark-up on when you purchased it). Get the picture?

The result, however companies choose to make money, is that the material is out of the waste stream, and winds up in a recycled-stream – which is the whole point. Learning how companies process and recycle this kind of waste should be in school and business curriculums as it creates best practices in terms of the handling of such waste. To learn more, check out this resource !

A Tale of Two Chemicals - Not a Good Mix

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 20:21:36 GMT

A t a transfer station environment, we sometimes come in contact with materials that shouldn’t mix. This happens because people have disposed of containers which they assume to be innocuous, but are trouble when mixed together.

At Berks Transfer , we operate our business in accordance with the all the safety measures necessary to react to dangers that present themselves. We like to use certain scenarios as “teaching moments” as we recently had to react to such a situation on our premises. What about when these dangerous situations happen at home?

The one thing we all do is laundry. Most households have bleach around, whether it’s used for laundry or household cleaning. Dishwashing liquid is another staple in households. Dawn is my personal favorite. So…what happens when bleach and Dawn dishwashing liquid mix? It’s a disaster. Dish soap often contains Amines, which are a derivative of ammonia. Experience tells us that mixing bleach and ammonia can result in a dangerous reaction. Worst case: it can actually be fatal. The danger created is its v apors.

According to Healthline Online , although rare, mixing bleach and ammonia can lead to coma and death “depending on how much of the gas is released and the time you’re exposed to it.” Interior shower stalls and powder rooms can spell disaster in terms of fumes generated in close quarters. It’s simply not safe. There are plenty of safe alternatives to mixing these two chemicals that are just as effective in doing the job.

The solution? Never clean again. Not an option? The simple rule of thumb is bleach can only be mixed with laundry detergent or water. That’s it.

For further information on what the parameters for bleach are, the Material Data Safety Sheet is available at https://www.thecloroxcompany.com/wp-content/uploads/cloroxregular-bleach12015-06-12.pdf . If you’re not sure what your cleaning products contain, remember to always check the label and follow the instructions. It’s a simple way to avoid problems, and to stay safe. If you have a difficult time reading the “fine print” posted on such products, you can search information online by simply typing the product name, followed by the letters SDS (safety data sheet analysis and information).

Why I Was Late to Work

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 18:26:41 GMT

I guess having a flat tire isn’t a good excuse – when you work from home.

Speaking of tires, what do used tires, asphalt and concrete have in common? No punch line for this one. Actually, it’s quite a bit nowadays.

Concrete, as a stand-alone product, has a finite number of useful years, depending on the design of the mix, and things like exposure conditions (think weather, earthquakes, and erosion). However, there are materials, such as recycled tires , that can increase the life of the concrete to a great extent. Adding rubber to the mix makes the concrete more heat resistant and increases its strength. If fact, rubberized asphalt concrete manufacturers have been adding rubber to asphalt for quite some time. It’s been in use on roadways across the country since the 1980s.

According to a recent study at Purdue University, it’s estimated that more than 270 million scrap-tire s weighing more than 3 million tons are produced in the United States each year. This waste i s non-biodegradable and poses severe fire, environmental and health risks. Aside from tire derived fuel, the most promising use of recycled tires is in the engineering applications as artificial reefs, erosion control and aggregates for asphalt and concrete. In Melbourne, Australia’s RMIT University notes that the mix, if used for base layers, can make roads less prone to cracking. The mix could also promote recycling and support the circular economy. There are even more uses for recycled tires!

When you’re at a local high school track meet, or a football game, or a playground, take a look at the ground surface. There are many school systems who’ve made the decision to invest in such artificial surfaces to help lower the number of injuries from hard surface falls . Think about it. If schools and county buildings are making use of such innovations, corporate and commercial properties would naturally be next. It’s become a talking point for LEED based professionals and offers LEED credits.

Last, but not least; it’s quiet. That means environmentally , it effects noise pollution too. Not bad. Not bad at all.

What are you doing for your community?

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 17:27:32 GMT

What are you doing for your community?

Most people understand that last year was a total wash-out in terms of community events, celebrations and gatherings. It made many pause as well as gave an understanding of just how important assembly and connection with others is to our psyche, our mental and physical health. Many who didn’t necessarily participate in civic involvement in the past have come to the realization that it’s very much needed, and, in fact, fulfilling. Good works and deeds are contagious too.

Here are some great ideas for reaching out to family, friends and community members to get the ball rolling in your area.

Volunteering

Charities, churches, hospitals, food pantries are a great place to start. If you have a skill you can share, it’s a perfect opportunity to teach others how to do the same. You may not know it, but you have neighbors who need your help. Put a flyer out on your street or in your building to offer making a meal for someone or doing their grocery shopping. Older folks are especially vulnerable because their visits with the outside world have been hampered. They need your time, and they need the socialization that comes with it.

Businesses Need You

Local businesses are in desperate need of patrons! There are business owners who could use some help with small volunteer projects, especially if you’re a professional plumber or electrician (or have a trade you can offer). When you patronize those businesses, make sure you take the time to post positive reviews on social media, and share the word. Students who have been home-schooled or put out of school due to the pandemic need service hours and internship opportunities. So, if you’re able to act as a mentor, or using as a teaching experience, you should do so.

Clean-up Your Surroundings

No matter how small the effort is, cleaning up your surroundings helps the environment – even if it’s picking up a gum wrapper or a strewn cup. Good begets good, and you can make a huge impact on your environment. Volunteer to put containers out in your community to encourage a “Clean Saturday” or “Wednesday Night Pickups,” for example. Littering is much less likely on a street that looks cared for. The apathy of people who litter a street that’s already dirty is sad, yet it happens often. Donate flowers or your time to rake up leaves in the park. Every bit of it helps, and it’s good exercise too!

Recently, I found out about Good Deeds Day , which began 2007. It makes the point “that good deeds, big or small, have an impact on the recipient and the giver.” We don’t need a particular day to do something and feel good about it. It’s a teaching point for your children too; they need the lesson. Plus, they will pay-it-forward if you show them how. So, let’s go and do some good!

Car Batteries: Never Really Dead

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 21 May 2021 16:41:26 GMT

When it comes to disposing car batteries, two words should come to mind: lead and acid. I’ll say it again – lead and acid. People think that because batteries are packaged in heavy plastic blocks, that they don’t leak and don’t cause irreparable harm, but they do.

Car batteries contain toxic metals such as nickel cadmium, which is a carcinogen. The purpose of the metal is to act as a converter from chemical energy to electric energy. The water in batteries, which acts a conductor, is a mixture of sulfuric acid and water. Even if you spill it on the concrete or macadam while changing a battery or servicing a vehicle, there will be surface deterioration.

When it comes to disposal, most people do the right thing with their batteries. Over 90% percent of lead acid batteries are recycled each year, per the US Environmental Protection Agency. The fact is, it’s easy to properly dispose of car batteries, as almost any retailer that sells lead-acid batteries often collect them for recycling. In Berks County, available retailers who receive drop-offs can be found on the Berks County Recycling Center website.

What about electric car batteries? More than a million electric vehicles have been sold worldwide since 2017. Those vehicles alone will mean a quarter of a million tons of discarded battery packs. There’s a process called “thermal runaway” that can cause a chemical reaction, which can lead to the explosion of a battery. For obvious reasons, this isn’t something that we want to occur in landfills.

Toyota has established a program to research repurposing such batteries for use in solar panel systems. Other companies will have to follow such initiatives. Different manufacturers state different mileage and age statistics on how long these batteries will last, so time will tell. Tesla is ahead of the curve by increasing the “life” of the batteries from older vehicles with their newly battery that contains ODTO , which could last over a million miles.

Disposal is still going to present challenges, though. For now, contact to your vehicle manufacturer or dealership to determine your disposal options.

Styrofoam: An Environmental Problem

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 17:45:48 GMT

Styrofoam isn’t a product. It’s a brand; but like Kleenex, we think of it as the product itself. Dow Chemical created it during the 1940’s.

Styrofoam is a brand named after the chemical compound polystyrene. It is made by expanding polystyrene with millions of air pockets. Because of these air pockets, Styrofoam is 97% air. However light, it’s a nightmare to get rid of.

As far back as 1988, the State of Pennsylvania (PA) began addressing the need for reduction of waste and increasing what’s recyclable. PA Act 101 was passed that year to do just that. It requires municipalities in PA to create waste management programs that include recycling. Any commercial establishments are required adhere to the plan their municipality has in place.

Doris de Guzman wrote a great piece for The Energy Collective Group , which “brings together the best thinkers on energy and climate.” They create, share and post insightful conversations about where the industry is heading. According to de Guzman, in 2013, Mayor Bloomberg of New York said, “ One product that is virtually impossible to recycle and never bio-degrades is Styrofoam. But it’s not just terrible for the environment. It’s terrible for taxpayers. Styrofoam increases the cost of recycling by as much as $20 per ton .”

She goes on to share that jurisdictions in California implemented bans; and that “California state assembly led by Senator Alan Lowenthal (D-Long Beach) has introduced bill SB 568 that requires the state of California to prohibit food vendors on and after January 1, 2016 from using polystyrene foam food containers. Food vendors in school districts or local governments with EPS (expanded poly styrene) recycling programs that meet or exceed a 60% recycling rate are exempt. The bill failed to pass .”

Now for the ugly part, the more research that becomes available, the more we realize that Styrofoam itself is dangerous. According the Children’s Environmental Health Network , over 50 chemical byproducts are released during the manufacturing of polystyrene, contaminating the air, water and communities that live near these facilities. Polystyrene is made up of multiple units of styrene. Styrene is believed to be a carcinogen (cancer causing) by the Department of Health and Human Services and the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Exposure to styrene can cause irritation of the skin, eyes, the upper respiratory tract, and the gastrointestinal tract. Chronic exposure results in more severe effects including depression, headaches, fatigue, weakness, hearing loss, and disrupted kidney function.

So, what can we do to help? Many of the largest fast-food chain restaurants have already eliminated Styrofoam from their packaging. Government and industry need to assist smaller businesses in finding alternatives that are cost-effective, so that they can make the switch also. Presently, paper products cost more than twice as much as Styrofoam. Hence, the hesitation for most companies. Awarding alternatives, such as the creation of grants, subsidies, or even national contests for creation of organic choices is a good first step. Hopefully, we will soon find a way to completely get rid of this environmental problem.

Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful – Not just a saying….

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 19:04:27 GMT

Although last year’s efforts for large community-based clean-ups were impeded by Covid-19 lockdowns, the work still needs to continue. Paul Guggenheimer reported in Trib Live the alarming statistics for Pennsylvania for the prior year. Even in 2018, the program here in Pennsylvania was responsible for removing “7.2 million pounds of trash with the work of 130,000 volunteers. Also, “2.3 million pounds of electronics waste and over 43,000 tires were either recycled or properly disposed of.” Think about those numbers!

Ten years ago, PA CleanWays and Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful merged to make the state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, Inc. , which is this country’s largest volunteer-based action and education organization.

Families, community centers, churches and friends all pull together at events like these, and make a huge difference in the well-being of a community. It’s not simply about the trash’s impact on how a neighborhood or municipality “looks”, it’s about health and safety.

After only a week, when trash or garbage (especially anything containing food waste) is present, pests, animals and stray pets are going to seek it. This means drawing into an area a completely different set of problems. The simple fact is, if the trash isn’t there, neither are any of the hazards that come with it.

The best resource team to work with is one you start yourself. You don’t need to wait for an “Earth Day” event or a “Keep America Beautiful” event. In fact, year-round, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation needs participation in their Adopt a Highway Program .

On your way home today, look at the sides of the roads you are travelling. It’s easy to understand how exacerbated the problem of increased debris and litter is this year, one year into this pandemic.

Reach out to as many people as you can, at work, at school, anywhere a team can be created.

If you have any questions related to your municipality’s requirement, simply call your Borough or Township Office and ask if you can arrange for a pickup of waste on a specific day at a location or park system of your choice. DO SO IN ADVANC E . It’s imperative to set up these projects ahead of time to ensure that the waste you gather can be collected by the right department in a timely fashion. Most townships welcome the help, and Public Works Divisions appreciate the organization. Take the time to create a team roster, including your township contacts, so that you can repeat the process each year, or twice a year.

Berks Transfer: Beneficial to Community

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 19:01:02 GMT

A transfer station is site where waste is dropped off, sorted and sent out to other locations for final disposal. They provide other benefits too. According to the Environmental Protection Agency , “… transfer stations make solid waste collection more efficient and reduce overall transportation costs, air emissions, energy use, truck traffic and road wear and tear.” At Berks Transfer, we are proud to save communities' money and lower costs of solid waste management services to our neighbors.

At Berks Transfer, we can accept:

· Trash trucks that run routes throughout Berks County (MSW: municipal solid waste)

· Construction debris (C&D) from building, renovations and demolition projects

· Commercial Non-Hazardous ( Residual ) loads: Processed here for solidification, to be sent out as a “solid.” (i.e., maple syrup manufacturer losing a nut or screw into a load of syrup while in production. The load is deemed unacceptable and must be destroyed to ensure safety).

· Rejected Food Loads (i.e., Giant receives a load from a shipper where expiration dates are impacted; or temperature controls on a refrigerated load fail).

· Concrete (no painted or stained material)

· Macadam/Brick (can be recycled here and sold for reuse)

· Wood

· Brush

What we CANNOT accept:

· Tires

· Televisions

· Hazardous Waste

· Soil (unless certified – MUST call ahead for manifest and test requirements)

Transfer stations rely on relationships with municipalities, landfills, incinerators, waste-to-energy locations, MRFs (pronounced “murfs”, which are material recycling and recovery locations), hazardous waste facilities and recycling centers.

Berks Transfer allows businesses, municipalities and homeowners to drop material off for disposal. The process is simple; In-bound traffic is weighed by a Certified Scale Master, and the material is off-loaded on the tipping floor. The loads are sorted and processed for loading into tractor-trailers which take the material to the designated disposal site.

Once the customer has dumped their material, they proceed back onto the scale, and pay for the load based on the weight, receiving a certified weight slip. Our permit is the most expansive of any Transfer Station in the County, allowing for municipal, residual, and C&D waste.

We also operate a roll-off facility at the Transfer Station and have over 300 containers for residential and commercial use. Our fleet includes dual axle and tri-axle roll-off trucks, and we offer trash compactors, as well as 12-, 20-, 30- and 40-Yard container service.

We exist to be of service to businesses and homeowners alike and have been in operation since 2002. We operate Monday through Friday from 7AM to 4PM, and Saturday’s from 7AM to 11AM.

Should residents have questions about where to take material, contact us at 610-926-7626.

Neighborhood Cleanouts

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 21:02:37 GMT

As municipalities’ budgets get strained, a lot of bulk items are no longer accepted by many township trash companies, or are fee based (i.e., $20 for one large item). Sometimes, the idea of a dumpster rental for one home may be going overboard. However, for neighbors or homeowners’ associations, they are a perfect solution.

Whether you’re doing renovations, cleaning out yard debris, or doing a fall (or spring) cleanup, by sharing a container, you share the cost and use of the dumpster.

Renting a Dumpster

It’s simple. Speak with your friends and neighbors ahead of time and agree on a budget and how large of a container you will need. For instance, one homeowner may only require a 12 Yard container (8 X 12 X 5.5), whereas two or three homeowners may look at a 30 Yard container (8 X 22 X 5.5). The container can be placed in a central location for the homes to work together to fill it. Since your group is only paying for one service, you avoid transportation costs for the remaining two households, and simply divide the cost of the tonnage.

Berks Transfer works with multi-family housing divisions, apartments and condominium associations on a regular basis. We supply containers to many of the multi-family and township yard sale events each year. Some communities express that they don’t want the drive-by traffic that intentionally heads into such neighborhoods after sale hours to go through what “didn’t sell” at the end of driveways. By utilizing a dumpster, this eliminates anything remaining in front of the home, and the unwanted visitors.

Also, neighbors who are taking down lots of trees (or shrubs) or working on projects together find sharing a container is a lifesaver.

Call us at 610-926-7626 with any questions as to how we can make your project or event an easy one. We’re happy to help!

It’s only ice. Is it really An Emergency?

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 21:11:20 GMT

This winter has seen homes and businesses with ice damming. It’s causing a large amount of damage, and even roof collapses. Locally, we’re hearing from several roofers and demolition companies who are getting so busy, they can hardly handle the number of calls coming in.

It’s important to understand what an ice dam is. It’s a ridge that forms at the edge of a roof, preventing melting snow from draining off the roof. The water backs up at the dam, causing damage to walls, ceilings, and insulation. Warm temperatures during the day start the melting process and then things re-freeze overnight, making matters worse.

How to Determine if an Ice Dam on Your Roof Is Causing Issues

First, look for wet spots in the carpeting along the walls and in the outside corners. If water is getting in behind the walls from the roof, it’s a tell-tale spot that helps to identify the problem. Also check windowsills.

Second, check exterior walls. Professionals say ice on siding is a critical sign of ice damming , and must be addressed immediately. Water behind the walls means insulation is being damaged. Water can also collect in/around junction boxes , where electrical wiring may be exposed. It will easily create black mold, even if the leaking is not apparent.

At the very least, call your insurance company to determine if you have coverage for the event; then plan for mitigating the risks going forward.

By keeping gutters clear of leaves and debris, it allows melting snow to drain away from the edge of the roofline ( preventing the dam ). Ask This Old House has a terrific video on easy ideas to help melt what’s up there without climbing up on roofs or taking drastic measures to minimize the ice in the first place.

Lastly, ensure that chimney’s, vents and exhaust fans all have adequate seals, which keeps warm air away from the roof to prevent further melting. Since air leakage is one of the biggest problems, sealing things properly is the biggest solution.

Helping a Hoarder

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 20:55:33 GMT

In our line of work, we see a lot of trash. But sometimes, it’s more than junk—it’s a cry for help hidden beneath years of accumulation.

Hoarding situations are far more common than most people realize. In fact, nearly 5% of the population struggles with hoarding behaviors. Many hold steady jobs and maintain active social lives. From the outside, everything looks normal. Inside their homes, however, space becomes unlivable—rooms overflow, hallways disappear, and basic daily activities become difficult or even dangerous.

Clean Hoard vs. Dirty Hoard: Understanding the Difference

Not all hoards look the same.

“Clean hoards” often involve collections—items stacked wall to wall, leaving little room to move.
“Dirty hoards” may include food waste, animal accumulation, rodents, or unsanitary living conditions.

In both cases, the environment can pose serious health and safety risks. Fire hazards, mold growth, pest infestations, and structural strain are just a few of the hidden dangers.

The good news? While the task may seem overwhelming, it is absolutely doable—with the right support.

A Practical Approach to an Emotional Process

Hoarding clean-outs are rarely just about removing items. They often involve family members, close friends, social workers, contractors, or new property owners stepping in to help.

Our role is simple but essential: we make the logistics easier.

At Berks Transfer, we can stage dumpsters on-site—either all at once or through “round-tripping” loads as the clean-out progresses. This flexibility allows the process to move at a manageable pace, giving everyone involved the space and time they need to work thoughtfully and safely.

And because we’ve built strong relationships with contractors and clean-out professionals, we can help connect customers with trusted referrals and estimates when needed.

Why Compassion Matters

One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to “fix” the problem by simply throwing things away without consent. That approach can create deep rifts in relationships and make recovery even harder.

Hoarding is often tied to depression, anxiety, trauma, or social isolation—factors that were intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sometimes, we speak with families who have lost a loved one and are left facing a home filled with years of belongings and memories.

In these moments, the focus shouldn’t just be on clearing space—it should be on healing.

If someone you know needs professional support, contacting Berks County Mental Health Services can be a meaningful first step. Even small victories—like cleaning out a garage or tackling one room—can restore a sense of accomplishment and comfort.

You Probably Know Someone Who’s Struggling

Here’s something many people don’t realize: you likely know a hoarder. You just don’t know you know one.

That’s why awareness and empathy are so important. Behind closed doors, people may be living in unsafe conditions while feeling too ashamed to ask for help. We believe no one should face that alone.

Construction Rebound Post COVID-19

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 15:41:48 GMT

Many construction and demolition companies have seen drastic changes in business during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether or not the second or possible third round of the virus impacts us as hard as the first phase is yet to be seen. One thing is certain; the need for companies, large and small, to steady themselves and prepare to re-energize their organizations for the long-term.

The first question many owners and shareholders are asking: When will the industry right itself, and businesses regain traction? The answer isn’t a simple one. According to Statista , in the United States, approximately 6.5% of GDP is a result of construction spending.

While many projects have resumed here in the US, returning to an environment where supplies are readily available, where money flows to projects for expansion of existing structures, or new construction is something else.

Since Berks Transfer services this industry, we’ve seen a shift in the kind of debris associated with our daily intake during the epidemic, and to those customers who utilize our services for roll-off containers onsite.

Larger projects seemed to have stopped overnight; while homeowners and small contractors who could work alone, and not be affected by COVID-19 constraints, pushed on. The number of families who were forced to stay home, either due to business or school closures or the need to work remotely, made the amount of waste coming households increase ten-fold. Here in Pennsylvania, local municipal haulers were working harder than ever to keep up the pace.

Many companies continue to see strain on the supply chain. Anything and everything required for projects is hard to obtain, whether it be lumber, steel, siding, insulation or tools. This was a result of all the closures at companies who supply product to the industry, the shipping of product coming to a standstill, and the fact that even international shipping was impeded by shutdowns. Prices soared for the product that builders could actually get their hands on.

The good news is that lumber prices are starting to correct. According to Trinity Building Systems , in November 2020, lumber prices dropped 41% from $948 per thousand board feet down to $565 per board feet. Hopefully, the remainder of products and services needed by residential and commercial contractors will follow suit.

Engineers and consultants are monitoring the effects of COVID, and will do so for a long time. The outlook on how to come back stronger from this may lie in innovation and change. It may take years, and may even create new job categories in order to serve the industry even better.

Why Recycle Televisions?

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 20:46:52 GMT

Why Recycle Televisions?

A t Berks Transfer, we often get asked about televisions, and why we can’t accept them for disposal.

Electronic waste, known as E-waste, has chemicals that are extremely harmful to the environment. This includes things like lead, cadmium, mercury, bromated flame retardants, beryllium and more. Older televisions often have glass cathode ray tubes and circuit boards that can actually have several pounds of lead.

The damage to soil, air and waterways is growing. The manufacturing and production of flat-screen TV’s utilizes a chemical called nitrogen trifluoride. It’s a greenhouse gas and can actually speed up global warming. In manufacturing plants, nitrogen trifluoride has even shown to cause damage to organs with repeated exposure.

The production and disposal of LCD (liquid crystal display) televisions and appliances presents challenges world-wide; not just here in the US. So, old or new technology…waste is an issue either way. There are so many components to consider; including the liquid crystal, the glass, metals, plastics, circuit boards, etc.

Handling this type of waste takes many moving parts. Closed-loop recycling is one of the best options because it’s based on three principals. The first is to collect the waste to be recycled. The second is the manufacturing the collected materials, and the third is the actual production of a new product. Then, the process starts again. This keeps as much in “re-use” as possible; helping to mitigate damage to the environment, and eliminate thousands of tons of waste at landfills each year.

If you’re a Berks County resident, you have free access to drop off electronics and televisions at the Berks County Recycling Center , located at 1316 Hilltop Road, Leesport. Their hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 8AM to Noon.

For businesses, there are options locally also.

Locally recycling companies:

IGREEN ELECTRONIC RECYCLING

250 CORPORATE DR, READING, PA 19605

610-926-1717

RELIABLE RECYCLING

801 EUCLID AVE, TEMPLE, PA 19560

610-750-7717

Understanding Latex Paint Disposal

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Thu, 31 Dec 2020 14:50:25 GMT

Understanding Latex Paint Disposal

There’s certainly concern about the disposability of latex paints. They’re dangerous the soil, and to groundwater. The EPA estimates that every homeowner has approximately three to four gallons of leftover paint in their homes; and that nearly 10% of that winds up in landfills. Put simply, even ONE gallon of improperly disposed paint has the ability to pollute up to 250,000 gallons of water.

It’s important to know that in Pennsylvania, it is against the law to dispose of “wet” latex paint (liquid) in your trash. However, proper handling and disposal of latex paint is easy. Simply obtain kitty litter and mix it with your paint on a 1:1 ratio with a paint stick; and let it dry. Once you have a “solid” it may be disposed of along with your regular trash.

In an effort to mitigate the amount of latex paint waste, companies such as PaintCare were formed. According to Wikipedia , “PaintCare, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, established in to represent paint manufacturers (paint producers) to plan and operate paint stewardship programs in the United States in those states that pass paint stewardship laws.”

Around the country, regulations are evolving. The creation of collection programs to encourage residents to take leftover, unwanted paint is becoming commonplace. In CT, CA, CO, OR, ME, MN, RI and VT, offering a paint care program is mandatory. You can check with your local paint retailer to determine if they have voluntary paint take-back programs you can take advantage of.

Once paint is taken back, it ships to companies like GDB International , a firm in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where the paint is rebalanced and recolored to make it saleable as a recycled product. The rebalancing process is the filtering out fine solids from the liquid. The recolor process is done after paint has been sorted, often in large 300-gallon totes. Until recently, the word about such companies has been hard to get out.

State and federal regulations are now helping with the communication efforts. Communities and corporations all over the country are stepping up. Even Amazon is in the game! You can have recycled paint shipped directly to your home. Plus, pricing is equal to home improvement retailer interior paints. In Pennsylvania, the DEP is a good resource for information regarding disposability and/or recycling.

By following green painting tips (available on the PADEP website) and purchasing recycled paint, you can greatly diminish the pollution and make conscious purchasing decisions. It’s never been easier to dispose of unwanted paint! Contact Berks Transfer to learn more!

Estate Cleanouts

elleng@esreading.com (Berks Transfer) — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 19:10:20 GMT

I n the weeks and months after a loved one passes, there’s much to be done by children, friends and relatives to handle paperwork, and prepare the deceased’s home for sale. Sometimes, this process is fraught with time constraints, based on when adult children can navigate work, travel and cleanout schedules. Sometimes, refurbishing or remodeling even takes place. The process doesn't have to be hard. Below are some ways to make it easy and stress-free!

Securing Important Documents: Secure all important investment, banking, mortgage documentation, deeds, social security, insurance forms and alike. Even utility bills and credit card bills should be gathered and given to an attorney, if one’s been chosen, to ensure utilities remain on in the home. If instructions have been left for an executor or executrix, ensure that as the cleanout takes place, these documents are to be given priority and remain organized. If a will exists, it may give specifics about items to be given or set aside for distribution later, so it’s a good idea to read it to ensure with wishes and instructions of the decedent are followed.

Changing the Locks: The locks on a home should be changed. This eliminates the chance that anyone, including former caregivers or contractors, cannot access a home without your permission.

Preparing for the Cleanout: When beginning the clean out, have boxes and containers available to set aside and stage items that are fragile, or are being given to specific family/friends. Keep that space in the house organized! Note: The very best way to stop progress is to open a box of pictures. Having lost both parents, my sisters and I found that if we looked at photos, we’d start going down memory lane, and get nothing done. It’s best to put photo albums aside and make time for going through all pictures at the end of the cleanout. This way, you can take time and care, go through pictures, sort them, and enjoy them.

Selecting Items for Donation: Set aside items for donation, or pickup by charities, and make appointments for pickup on the same appointment days. This eliminates having to go back and forth to the residence on multiple occasions, or have your progress interrupted to repeated.

Renting a Dumpster: Having a dumpster available is the b est way to handle all unwanted items from the home. It can be parked outside of the garage or close to a front door to make loading easy. At Berks Transfer, we’ll ensure that the dumpster is there for your cleanout process and that it gets switched out as often as you need it. Upon your completion, we’ll pull the last container , and you’re set.

We work with a lot of real estate agents, attorneys, contractors and c leaning firms, and can help you make the process an easier one. Contac t Joan t o learn more!

3 injured after roof of mobile home collapses in Maxatawny Township

Wed, 13 Mar 2019 16:06:40 GMT

3 injured after roof of mobile home collapses in Maxatawny Township

Crews were dispatched shortly after 4 p.m. to the 15100 block of Kutztown Road for the report of a roof collapse with injuries.

WRITTEN BY MICHAEL YODER

Three people working on a vacant mobile home escaped after its roof collapsed Tuesday afternoon in Maxatawny Township.

Neighbors rescued two teens just before the Kutztown Fire Company arrived at the Kutztown Mobile Home Park home in the 15100 block of Kutztown Road.

Deputy Chief Mike Russo said both teens suffered minor injuries and were transported by ambulance to Reading Hospital. And the man working with them but in another part of the structure suffered an eye injury and was taken to Lehigh Valley Hospital near Allentown.

The rescuers were neighbors John Biltcliffe and Henry Erb and the father of the two teens.

For the last two weeks, Biltcliffe saw the empty mobile home beside his as the scene of a delicate demolition project.

The home had sat vacant for years, Biltcliffe said, falling into disrepair, requiring that it be taken down in pieces. The demolition looked so precarious to Biltcliffe that he took pictures of it early on Tuesday, saying he was going to post them to social media along with the Miley Cyrus hit "Wrecking Ball."

Around 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Biltcliffe pulled up to his home in his pickup truck, looking toward the few workers taking down the adjacent trailer and throwing debris in dumpsters. Then the roof started coming down.

"I heard the roof, and I was going to make a joke like, 'You didn't call me over to see it fall?'" Biltcliffe said. "And before the words came out of my mouth, I heard screaming. So I just shut my mouth and ran, jumped up and tried to help."

Three people were trapped inside the collapsed building, two teens and an adult who had been helping with the demolition.

Erb had had just sat down at the table in his mobile home across the street, looked out the window and saw the roof collapsing.

Erb said he had been worrying for days that a collapse was possible as most of the support structures on the interior and exterior of the mobile home had been removed.

"I saw John running, so I quick grabbed my coat and came out," Erb said. "I saw it going and heard the yelling, so I was like, 'Erb, get out there.'"

Biltcliffe, Erb and the father of the two teens trapped inside ran to the spot where they were stuck. A dumpster that had been put beside the home earlier in the day for debris was the only thing that created space so that the entire roof didn't crush them, splitting the roof in half and creating a small gap.

The three men searched for boards to put underneath the collapsed roof, prying with all their strength to lift the structure.

Erb said one of the trapped boys was in the "fetal position" in the space, temporarily losing consciousness. Both boys were shook up, witnesses said.

Biltcliffe's wife, Juana, said the scary situation turned out as well as could be expected.

"I was sitting right at the window talking on the phone and I heard it," Juana said. "I looked out the window, and it didn't even register at first because all of a sudden the house was shorter."

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Dumpster Myths Debunked: What You Think You Know Might Be Wrong

Myth #1: “All Dumpsters Are the Same”

Myth #2: “You Can Throw Anything in a Dumpster”

Myth #3: “Dumpster Rentals Are Too Expensive”

Myth #4: “You Don’t Need a Dumpster for Small Projects”

Myth #5: “Waste Transfer Stations Are Just Dumping Grounds”

Myth #6: “Renting a Dumpster Is Complicated”

The Truth: Smarter Waste Management Starts with the Right Partner

Ready to Get Started? Partner with Berks Transfer Today

How to Fill a Dumpster Correctly: A Complete Guide for Efficient Waste Management

Why Proper Dumpster Loading Matters

Step-by-Step Guide to Filling a Dumpster Correctly

1. Start with a Plan

2. Load Heavy Items First ﻿

3. Break Down Large Items

4. Distribute Weight Evenly

5. Fill Gaps with Smaller Debris

6. Don’t Overfill the Dumpster

7. Know What You Can’t Throw Away

8. Use Proper Safety Practices

Pro Tips from Marketing & Industry Experts

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Final Thoughts

Construction Season Starts Soon: Do You Have Your Dumpster?

Construction Debris Adds Up Fast

Safety and Productivity Go Hand in Hand

Save Time and Keep Projects on Schedule

Stay Compliant with Local Regulations

Perfect for Any Project

Plan for a Smooth Project

Start Your Project Right

How Waste Transfer Stations Improve Collection Efficiency

1. Shorter Hauls for Collection Trucks

2. Faster Turnaround Times

3. Smarter Waste Consolidation

4. Reduced Environmental Impact

5. Better Service for Businesses & Municipalities

Why Collection Efficiency Matters

How a Dumpster Is Delivered and Picked Up: A Step-by-Step Guide from Berks Transfer

Step 1: Scheduling Your Dumpster Rental

Step 2: Preparing for Dumpster Delivery

Step 3: Dumpster Delivery Day

Step 4: Using Your Dumpster Properly

To avoid delays or extra fees, keep these tips in mind:

Step 5: Scheduling Dumpster Pickup

Step 6: Dumpster Pickup Day

Why Choose Berks Transfer for Dumpster Rental?

Ready to Rent a Dumpster?

Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Renting a Dumpster

Wrapping Up

Clearing the Air: New Vape Collection Programs Are Emerging

The Growing Need for Vape Collection Programs

Emerging Vape Collection Programs

Our Commitment to Responsible Waste Management

Looking Ahead: Sustainability as the Standard

A Look at Commercial Waste

What Is Commercial Waste?

Types of Commercial Waste (Non-Hazardous)

Why Proper Commercial Waste Management Matters

How a Non-Hazardous Waste Transfer Station Supports Your Business

Hazardous vs. Non-Hazardous Waste: What’s the Difference?

Hazardous vs. Non-Hazardous Waste: What’s the Difference?

What Is Hazardous Waste?

What Is Non-Hazardous Waste?

Common Non-Hazardous Waste Types

Why the Difference Matters

How to Dispose of Waste the Right Way

Safe and Responsible Disposal

Understanding Legacy Pollution

What Is Legacy Pollution?

Why Legacy Pollution Still Matters Today

How Berks Transfer Helps Prevent New Pollution

What You Can Do to Prevent Future Pollution

A Cleaner Future Starts with Responsible Waste Handling

Vape Waste: A Growing Problem

The Harm of Vape Waste

Still Think Vape Waste Isn’t a Problem?

A Safe Disposal Plan

Coming Together to Reduce Vape Waste

2. Load Heavy Items First

Getting the Word Out

Rethinking Battery Disposal

Turning a Crisis into an Opportunity