We’re excited to announce the addition of a new automated side-load (ASL) truck to our fleet. This investment improves safety, increases route reliability, and helps us serve you better. Below you’ll find a concise explanation of why we added this truck, how it operates, the most important customer-facing guidelines, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Our New Side-Load Truck —
What Customers Need to Know
.png)
.png)
.png)
Why We Added a Side-Load Truck
-
The driver remains in the cab and controls a hydraulic arm that reaches out, lifts, and empties your cart or container into the hopper.
-
The arm uses sensors and cameras to position itself and verify a secure lift before dumping.
-
Once emptied, the container is returned to the ground where it was found — the whole process is automated and controlled from the cab.
This is faster than manual loading and keeps our drivers out of traffic during pickups.
How Does The Side-Load Truck Operate?
A side-load truck uses a hydraulic arm mounted on the side of the vehicle to service containers.
Here’s what happens during pickup:
-
The driver positions the truck alongside the container.
-
Using in-cab controls and cameras, the hydraulic arm reaches out and securely grabs the container.
-
The container is lifted, emptied into the truck, and then gently placed back on the ground.
-
The driver never needs to leave the cab during normal operation.
The system is designed to be precise, controlled, and safe — both for your container and the surrounding area.
Customer placement & access rules (must-follow)
Following these rules helps us keep service reliable and prevents damage.
Clearance & positioning
-
Place carts/containers parallel to and facing the roadway whenever possible.
-
Maintain 3 feet of clearance on each side of the cart and 10 feet of clearance in front and behind.
-
Keep 18 feet overhead clearance — no low awnings, wires, or tree branches.
-
Do not place carts between parked cars, behind vehicles, or inside tight enclosures that block the arm.
Surface & stability
-
Set containers on a flat, stable surface. Do not place on steep slopes or soft ground.
-
Wheels should be engaged or the cart secured to avoid rolling during pickup.
Lids & contents
-
Lids must be fully closed. Do not overfill or stack loose items on or beside the cart.
-
Broken carts or carts modified from original design may not be serviceable.
Extra trash & overflow materials
-
Automated side-load service is designed to safely empty the contents inside your cart or container.
-
Extra bags, boxes, or loose items placed outside the cart will not be collected unless prior arrangements are made.
-
Overflowing carts with lids that cannot fully close may be skipped for safety reasons.
-
Large or bulky items (furniture, construction debris, appliances) require scheduled pickup or alternative service.
-
If you regularly generate more waste than fits in your container, please contact us. We can:
-
Recommend a larger cart or additional container
-
Adjust pickup frequency where available
-
Schedule occasional overflow or bulk pickups
-
Our goal is to keep service predictable, safe, and fair for all customers.
Seasonal & temporary conditions
-
Clear snow, ice, and slush from around carts and access paths before pickup.
-
If wind is forecast, secure lids and loose material to prevent interference with the arm.
Obstructions & the driver’s limits
-
If the driver deems the pickup unsafe or likely to cause damage, service may be skipped and a notice left.
FAQs
Q: Will the truck damage my cart?
A: Modern ASL systems are designed to lift carts gently and return them where they were found. Damage is uncommon, but can happen if a cart is broken, overloaded, or improperly positioned.
Q: What if my driveway is narrow?
A: Place your cart at the curb, parallel to the street, following the clearance rules above. If you have permanent access concerns, contact us to discuss options.
Q: Do I need to buy a special cart?
A: Most standard curbside carts are compatible. If you have an unusual container, reach out and we’ll confirm compatibility.