Waste invoices can be surprisingly tricky. Between service codes, fees, and weight measurements, it’s easy to skim past details that could be costing you money. Whether you’re managing a single location or a large portfolio, knowing how to read your invoice is the first step to spotting errors and finding savings.

1. Start with the basics

At the top of your invoice, you’ll find:

• Account number – Ties the bill to your service agreement.
• Service address – Where the pickups actually happened.
• Billing period – The dates you’re being charged for.

Make sure these match your records — wrong details here can create headaches later.

2. Review the service descriptions

Each line should clearly list:

• Container size (e.g., 6-yard dumpster)
• Pickup frequency (e.g., twice a week)
• Material type (trash, recycling, organics, etc.)

Check these against your contract. A mismatch could mean you’re paying for a different service than you agreed to.

3. Understand the charges

Most invoices include:

• Base service rate – Your standard fee.
• Weight or volume charges – If you went over the included limit.
• Fuel and environmental fees – Often a percentage of the base rate.
• Taxes – Based on your location.

Pay attention to weight or volume numbers here. If they look unusually high or low, compare them with your own records or pickup tickets.

4. Watch for extra or one-time fees

These can add up fast:

• Overage fees – For overfilled containers.
• Contamination fees – For putting the wrong materials in recycling or compost.
• Special pickups – Extra runs outside your normal schedule.

If these keep appearing, there’s likely an operational issue worth fixing.

5. Cross-check with your own records

Line up the invoice against:

• Service logs
• Hauler tickets
• Notes or photos from your team

This helps confirm that billed services — and any weight or volume data — are accurate.

6. Track changes over time

Looking at a few months side-by-side can show:

• Gradual rate increases.
• Repeat charges or fees.
• Seasonal changes in waste volume.

Spotting patterns early gives you more leverage to address them.

7. Put the info to work

Reading invoices closely isn’t just about catching mistakes. It’s also a way to:

• Negotiate better rates.
• Remove unnecessary services.
• Reduce contamination fees through staff training.

Bottom line:

Your waste invoice isn’t just a bill — it’s a detailed report of your service. Taking the time to read it carefully can uncover errors, reveal cost-saving opportunities, and give you better control over your waste program.

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