When planning a shipment from our trash can factory, one of the most practical questions you can ask is: "How much does a standard trash can weigh empty?" The answer is not a single number, because we produce a range of sizes and materials, but I can give you precise weight data for our most common models to help you calculate shipping costs accurately.
For our standard 13-gallon (50-liter) residential trash can—the most popular size for kitchens and offices—the empty weight is 3.2 pounds (1.45 kg). This model is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with a compact footprint and a lid hinge system. It measures 25 inches tall and 13 inches in diameter. The lightweight design is intentional: it keeps shipping costs low while still offering durability for daily use.
For our standard 20-gallon (76-liter) stainless steel trash can—often used in commercial kitchens or hallways—the empty weight increases to 12.8 pounds (5.8 kg). Stainless steel is heavier than plastic, but it provides superior corrosion resistance and a sleek appearance. This model includes a fitted lid and a foot pedal mechanism, which adds about 1.2 pounds to the base weight.
For our largest standard model, the 55-gallon (208-liter) plastic wheeled trash can—common in warehouses, schools, and outdoor areas—the empty weight is 18.5 pounds (8.4 kg). This unit includes two smooth-rolling wheels, a steel axle, and a heavy-duty lid. The polypropylene material is UV-stabilized for sun exposure, and its thicker walls contribute to the higher weight.
Important shipping factors to note:
- All weights are for the can body and lid only. If you order with optional liners, locking cables, or branding stickers, add approximately 0.3–0.5 pounds (0.14–0.23 kg) per item.
- Our factory packs each trash can individually in a corrugated cardboard box. The packing materials (box, tape, and inserts) add 0.8–1.2 pounds (0.36–0.54 kg) per unit.
- For palletized bulk orders (e.g., 50 units per pallet), we wrap the cans in stretch film and use corner protectors. This adds roughly 15 pounds (6.8 kg) per pallet total, or 0.3 pounds per can.
To give you a direct shipping example: If you order 100 of our standard 13-gallon plastic cans, the total empty cargo weight would be 100 cans × 3.2 lbs = 320 lbs, plus about 100 lbs for packing materials and pallets, giving a gross weight of 420 lbs (190.5 kg). For a truck LTL freight quote, this weight places you in a very economical bracket.
Why our weights are reliable:
Every production batch is sampled and weighed on a certified digital scale before shipment. We maintain a tolerance of ±0.2 pounds (0.09 kg) for plastic models and ±0.5 pounds (0.23 kg) for stainless steel models. If you need a specific model’s weight for a customs document or shipping label, our customer service team can provide the exact value from your order’s batch record within 24 hours.
Remember: the empty weight is just the starting point. When filled with waste, the total weight changes drastically—but for shipping costs, the empty weight is what matters. Contact our factory with your chosen size and quantity, and we will send a detailed weight table for your exact SKU. That way, you avoid surprise fees at the carrier.
