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WHAT TO ASK WHEN YOU'RE LOOKING FOR A WASTE HAULER
So, you’re looking for a new waste hauler. Total Disposal can help you with all your disposal needs. But there are other waste haulers out there who can help you too. Where should you start? We believe the best customer is a well-informed customer. Here’s a list of questions you should ask anybody who’s offering waste hauling services to you.
How much will I pay per month? The price quote you receive from Total Disposal includes the monthly service of the refuse container. It is based on the size of the container and the number of pickups per week. Because of the high costs associated with trucking (driver with benefits, fuel, vehicle taxes and insurance), the most cost efficient plan includes fewer pickups per week. If you choose a container with a lock system installed, there is an additional $5.00 per month charge.
What are the additional fees and taxes? Total Disposal imposes a Fuel Recovery Fee ONLY when diesel fuel rises above $3.00 per gallon. The FRF changes monthly and is based on the published fuel averages from The US Energy Information Administration / Department of Energy (DOE). We do not charge Environmental Fees. At this time the government does not require waste haulers to charge any taxes directly to the customer for service.
The best way to compare prices is to ask the waste hauler what the charge would be, with all fees and taxes, for the current month. Make sure you compare prices for the same month with all the quotes you’ve received. Then you’re comparing ‘apples-to-apples’ and the additional adjustable fees and taxes will not be so difficult to compare.
What is the term of the contract? Does it automatically renew? What is the procedure for cancellation? Total Disposal’s standard Commercial Agreement has a term of one year. It will automatically renew at the end of the term ON A MONTHLY BASIS. That way, if your waste hauling needs change, or you are unhappy with our service for any reason, you are free to find a new waste hauler. Our goal is to keep you happy with our service! Most waste haulers require three year contracts with automatic three year renewals unless you send a certified letter requesting a cancellation sixty days prior to the renewal. This is called an “Evergreen Clause” and it is illegal in some states. If you miss this small window, you’re stuck with a service provider you aren’t happy with for another three years, unless you pay a huge cancellation fee. And they will take you to court to hold you to the agreement.
Can my monthly charge go up before the contract expires? Total Disposal agrees not to raise the monthly charge for the initial term of the contract. If we must raise prices after the first year, you are no longer obligated to keep the service at the new price. Competitors with three year contracts rarely, if ever, keep the price the same for three years. They will give you a low introductory rate, but raise the price before the end of the contract and you are obligated to pay it.
Make sure you ask for a copy of the contract when you ask for a quote. If they don’t want you to see the contract in advance, you should ask yourself why. Total Disposal’s Commercial Service Proposal has the ENTIRE CONTRACT included so you know the terms up front. When you do sign a contract, make sure you have a copy of it for your records. All requests for copies of contracts held by Total Disposal are answered within 24 hours. Some waste haulers are not too quick to send you a copy at your request.
Who do I call if I need additional service or if I have a question about my bill? Total Disposal’s phones are answered by real people 98% of the time during regular office hours. We use our voice mail system after hours, or when all of our representatives are helping other customers. Even if you must leave a message, we will return your call promptly. Most requests for additional service can be accommodated within 24 hours.
Total Disposal is a family owned and operated local business. Excellent Customer Service is our first priority. You can count on Total Disposal for all of your disposal needs!
CALL US TODAY AT 219.944.1800