7 Things to Know Before Buying a Self-Dumping Hopper

You’re ready to improve the waste removal processes at your manufacturing facility.

Maybe you’ve explored the different types of dumpsters and trash bins available.

You’re considering what features are essential in a quality dump hopper.

Wherever you are in the process of boosting your employees’ efficiency, productivity, and satisfaction, we’ve compiled seven tips to help you make a smart and cost-effective purchase of a dump hopper or dumpster.

What Are Self-Dumping Hoppers?

Self-dumping hoppers offer an improvement over traditional trash bins or small dumpsters used for waste collection in businesses, especially in manufacturing facilities, woodshops, and by roofing professionals or contractors.

These hoppers are typically designed to be lifted by forklifts and can easily “dump” their contents into a larger outdoor dumpster with a simple lever pull.

By replacing multiple trash cans and reducing trips to a central dumpster, they help businesses save time, effort, and money on labor.

Here are seven tips for choosing the right dump hopper manufacturer.

 

1. Compare The Weight Capacity And Empty Weight Of Your Hopper Options

 

Be sure to compare your hopper options not only by volume but also by weight capacity.

One two-cubic-yard dumpster may not support as much weight as another.

If you’re looking at a two-yard dumpster rated for 4,000 pounds from one manufacturer, ensure that all the two-cubic-yard dumpsters you’re considering can hold the same weight—or more.

Also, take the empty weight of the hopper into account.

Although not all manufacturers provide this information, a heavier empty weight can often indicate better build quality.

 

2. Get A Good Warranty and Guarantee

 

Ask your dump hopper manufacturer about the ongoing support they provide if any issues arise.

Many manufacturers are focused on selling the hopper and then disappearing.

However, a trustworthy manufacturer should be ready to stand by their product and offer support whenever needed. Do they provide spare parts? What is covered, and for how long? Is there a written guarantee or warranty?

These are crucial questions to ask before committing to your dump hopper purchase.

 

3. Find Out Where Their Metal Comes From And Where They Manufacture

 

Foreign-sourced metal is often cheaper and more readily available, but the best steel comes from North America. Metals from overseas can be softer due to less advanced or cheaper metallurgy techniques.

It’s also important to check where the dump hoppers are manufactured.

While cheaper options are available from overseas, most American-made manufacturers take great pride in their work, resulting in higher build quality and lower maintenance.

Recently, we’ve seen many new customers who were dissatisfied with their previous dump hopper from a different manufacturer that didn’t hold up.

 

4. Consider Whether The Dump Hopper Salesperson is Knowledgeable and Helpful

 

Is your salesperson genuinely knowledgeable about the dump hopper or equipment they are selling?

Many industrial equipment suppliers handle numerous products and may not have seen their dump hopper in action. If your salesperson is just reading from a spec sheet, it might not be the right fit.

Ideally, you want to work with someone who truly understands the product, has observed it in use, and knows the details that make it effective.

 

5. Does Your Hopper Go Through Inspection and Testing?

 

A reliable dump hopper seller should have an inspection and testing process or formal procedure for each hopper.

At atlantapalletrack, every weld, cut, and seam is inspected by hand, and each dump hopper is built to last. We test every unit before it leaves the shop and fully stand behind every unit that is shipped out.

 

6. Be Able to Articulate Your Needs and Know How Much Trash You Move

 

When buying a dump hopper, it’s important to assess the volume of waste you currently handle so you can choose a hopper that meets your needs now and accommodates future growth.

Have your team monitor the amount of waste they handle daily or weekly. Tracking this data over several weeks will help you understand how a dump hopper can improve efficiency and determine the necessary capacity.

Plan where you’ll place the dump hopper—whether it will be under or beside a table, stacked two high for storage, etc.

Do you need casters for mobility?

Will it be used outdoors? How high should it be when dumped?

These considerations are crucial. A knowledgeable salesperson will help you select the right size and any additional features based on this information.

 

7. Consider Customizations For Your Dump Hopper

 

Can your self-dumping dumpster manufacturer handle customizations? For instance, atlantapalletrack offers low-profile hoppers that fit under tables, stackable units, and can be customized to nearly any size you need!

 

FAQ’s

What are self-dumping hoppers and how do they work?

Self-dumping hoppers are specialized containers used for waste collection, designed to be lifted by forklifts and easily “dumped” into larger outdoor dumpsters using a lever. They are an improvement over traditional trash bins and help businesses save time and labor by reducing the need for multiple trips to a central dumpster.

 

How should I compare different dump hopper options?

When comparing dump hoppers, consider both their volume and weight capacity. Ensure that the hopper you choose can handle the weight you need it to. Also, check the empty weight of the hopper, as a heavier empty weight often indicates better build quality.

 

What should I look for in a warranty or guarantee for a dump hopper?

Ask your manufacturer about their warranty or guarantee, including what is covered and for how long. Ensure they offer ongoing support, spare parts, and stand by their product. A reliable manufacturer will provide comprehensive support beyond the initial sale.

 

Why is the source of the metal and the location of manufacturing important?

The quality of metal can affect the durability of the dump hopper. North American steel is often superior to foreign-sourced metals, which can be softer due to less advanced metallurgy techniques. Additionally, American-made products often reflect higher build quality and lower maintenance.

 

How can I determine if a salesperson is knowledgeable about dump hoppers?

A knowledgeable salesperson should have in-depth understanding of the dump hopper, not just read from a spec sheet. They should be able to answer detailed questions, offer insights based on experience, and help you select the right product for your needs.

 

Why is it important to track the amount of waste I handle?

Tracking the volume of waste you handle helps you choose a dump hopper that meets your current needs and allows for future growth. Monitoring waste data will also help you determine the right size and features for your hopper.

 

Can dump hoppers be customized to fit specific needs?

Yes, many manufacturers, like atlantapalletrack, offer customizations such as low-profile designs, stackable units, and various sizes. Customizing your hopper can help it better fit your space and operational requirements.

 

Conclusion

selecting the right dump hopper can significantly enhance your waste management processes, leading to greater efficiency and cost savings for your facility. By carefully considering factors such as weight capacity, warranty support, metal quality, and customization options, you can make a well-informed decision that suits your specific needs. A knowledgeable salesperson and a manufacturer committed to quality and support will ensure you invest in a durable and effective solution. Taking the time to evaluate these aspects will ultimately contribute to smoother operations and improved productivity in your workplace.