Understanding Overages and How to Avoid Them

Keeping your container lids closed and all materials inside helps ensure consistent, reliable service. When containers are overfilled, it can cause delays, safety concerns, or additional charges. Staying within the container limit supports safe collection and helps us work efficiently to serve your community.

If you notice overages occurring frequently, it might be time to adjust your service to better fit your needs. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Evaluate Your Waste Volume: Assess how much waste you generate regularly. If your current container size is insufficient, consider upgrading to a larger one or adding an additional container by clicking here.

2. Schedule Additional Pickups (Business Customers Only): If you occasionally have more waste than usual, scheduling extra pickups can help manage the overflow.

3. Properly Dispose of Large Items: Ensure large items are disposed of correctly to avoid overloading your container. Click here to see if bulk trash pickup is available in your area for large items.

If your container is serviced while overfilled, an overage charge may appear on your invoice as a separate line item. The full amount of your invoice including the overage charge will be due on your invoice due date. If you are set for AutoPay, the charge will be included in the amount drafted. This charge helps cover the additional handling and disposal required when materials exceed the container’s intended capacity. If you are disputing this charge, click Request Help to submit your request.

Review Overage Videos

To help you better understand any overage charges, we offer access to video or picture footage of your container at the time of service. Here’s what you need to know:

To View Your Video

Only commercial and residential customers with an online account are eligible to view available service videos.

1. Log in to My WM. If you have more than one account, select the account you want to manage.

2. Select the Services link at the top of the dashboard.

3. Review any picture or video available for the service day in question.

Video Retention Period

Videos are retained for 6 months from the date of service. After this period, they are no longer accessible.

Stay Informed with Email Alerts

To receive notifications when an overage is recorded, make sure your communication preferences are up to date. You can manage these settings in your My WM account.

Need Help Accessing a Video?

If you’re unable to view a video or need footage older than 6 months, please use the Request Help button to contact us.

Container overfills are a safety risk for our communities and drivers. Temporary or permanent changes to your pickup frequency, container size or container quantities can be arranged.

If you are a residential customer at this time, container changes must be handled by a WM representative. Use the "Request Help" button below to submit your request.

For commercial customers, follow the steps here to increase your services.