{"id":16176,"date":"2026-07-28T03:38:53","date_gmt":"2026-07-28T08:38:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/?p=16176"},"modified":"2026-07-28T04:04:15","modified_gmt":"2026-07-28T09:04:15","slug":"garbage-pickup-service","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/?p=16176","title":{"rendered":"Garbage Pickup Service"},"content":{"rendered":"<section class=\"guide-preview\">\n<h2>What to Expect From This Guide to Starting a Garbage Pickup Service<\/h2>\n<p>This guide walks you through the key decisions and practical steps involved in starting a garbage pickup service, from evaluating the opportunity to preparing your first route. The highlights below show several of the important areas covered.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Inside the guide, you will find:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Startup steps:<\/strong> Follow an ordered progression through business fit, market research, setup decisions, route planning, and opening preparations.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Industry interviews:<\/strong> Learn from waste service professionals discussing equipment, pricing, customers, route management, financial decisions, and operating challenges.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Startup FAQs:<\/strong> Review practical answers about driver licensing, market restrictions, tipping fees, route density, pricing, and truck selection.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Business fit:<\/strong> Consider the physical demands, early schedules, vehicle responsibilities, financial pressure, and household impact involved.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Market and finances:<\/strong> Evaluate local hauling access, demand, route density, fixed costs, pricing, disposal fees, and profit potential.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Vehicles and compliance:<\/strong> Examine truck choices, safety equipment, insurance, driver requirements, waste-hauler rules, and location-dependent permits.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Opening preparation:<\/strong> Use test-route guidance and warning signs to check the truck, disposal account, billing system, documents, and breakdown plan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Begin by deciding whether the demands, costs, and operating conditions of a garbage pickup service fit your circumstances.<\/p>\n<\/section>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>As a private waste hauler, you collect solid waste from residential or commercial customers on a recurring schedule and transport it to a permitted transfer station or landfill.<\/p>\n<p>You operate a commercial vehicle on public roads, manage compliance across multiple agencies, price routes to cover high fixed costs, and keep customers who rely on you to show up consistently. This is not a business you ease into.<\/p>\n<p>Before you spend anything, you need to know whether private hauling is even allowed in the area you want to serve. Many cities and counties grant exclusive contracts to a single hauler \u2014 which means no room for a new competitor on residential routes. That single fact changes everything about where and how you can launch.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/starting-a-business\/steps\/\">startup steps<\/a> below walk you through that check and every decision that follows. Follow them in order. Each one builds on the last, and skipping ahead creates problems that are expensive to fix.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Ask yourself these questions before going further:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Do you hold a Commercial Driver&#8217;s License, or are you willing to get one before you operate a truck?<\/li>\n<li>Can you handle early morning starts, physical loading work, and vehicle management as part of your daily routine?<\/li>\n<li>Do you have enough startup capital to cover a truck, permits, insurance, and several months of fixed costs before your route reaches breakeven?<\/li>\n<li>Can your household manage reduced or no income during the customer-building phase?<\/li>\n<li>Are you prepared for the possibility that this business may not succeed \u2014 and do you have a plan if it doesn&#8217;t?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If those questions feel manageable, keep reading. If several feel out of reach right now, it&#8217;s better to know that before you commit capital.<\/p>\n<p>Talk to people who run private hauling operations in other markets \u2014 not competitors in your target area. Ask them what surprised them about the compliance layer, how long it took to reach breakeven, what they&#8217;d do differently on equipment, and how they handled the first truck breakdown.<\/p>\n<p>Buying an existing garbage route is also worth considering. You get an established customer list, active disposal relationships, and often equipment included. Starting from scratch gives you more control but a longer path to profitability. Think through both before deciding.<\/p>\n<h2>Red Flags Before You Start<\/h2>\n<p>Some of these issues are fixable. Others mean the model needs to change before you spend anything significant.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The biggest red flag \u2014 your target market may be closed:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Many municipalities award exclusive franchise agreements for residential garbage collection to a single hauler. If your target area has one in place, you can&#8217;t legally serve residential customers there.<\/p>\n<p>Verify market access before committing to any equipment or permits. Commercial collection is more often open to competition even in franchise markets, but you need to confirm that locally.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Route density that can&#8217;t cover fixed costs:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A garbage route with too few stops per mile loses money regardless of what you charge. If your target territory is too sparsely populated or already well-served by an established hauler, building a dense enough route to break even may not be possible.<\/p>\n<p>Run the break-even math before you sign anything. If you can&#8217;t realistically reach the stop count you need at a competitive price, the model needs to change.<\/p>\n<p><strong>One truck with no backup plan:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A single truck breakdown stops your revenue immediately and leaves every customer on that route without service. Starting with one truck is normal \u2014 but you need a plan for downtime, whether that&#8217;s a rental arrangement, a subcontracting relationship, or a repair fund large enough to cover fast turnaround.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Thin capital before the route is profitable:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;ll spend real money before you collect enough in subscriptions to cover your fixed costs. If you can&#8217;t fund that gap for at least 90 to 120 days, the financial position is too thin to launch safely.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Large national haulers already serving your territory:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The waste collection industry is dominated by national and regional operators who can price lower than a small independent because they spread fixed costs across dense existing routes. You&#8217;re most competitive in rural or semi-rural areas those operators underserve, in open-market jurisdictions, and in commercial niches where personal service and flexibility matter.<\/p>\n<p><strong>No nearby disposal facility accepting private haulers:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>If the only transfer station or landfill in your area doesn&#8217;t accept waste from private commercial haulers \u2014 or has closed its accounts \u2014 your route has nowhere to go. Verify disposal access before you commit to a service territory.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 1: Assess Fit and Operational Reality<\/h2>\n<p>Running a garbage route is physically demanding and operationally unforgiving. Routes start early \u2014 often before 6 a.m. The work involves exposure to weather, manual handling of waste, and the mechanical demands of a heavy commercial vehicle.<\/p>\n<p>Be honest about what this involves day to day before you spend a dollar on equipment or permits.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Your daily responsibilities will include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Driving and operating a commercial refuse truck on a timed route<\/li>\n<li>Loading waste manually or operating hydraulic collection equipment<\/li>\n<li>Making one or more disposal runs to a transfer station or landfill per day<\/li>\n<li>Managing customer accounts, billing, and service inquiries off-route<\/li>\n<li>Monitoring the truck&#8217;s condition and addressing maintenance issues before they become breakdowns<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you&#8217;ll be hiring a CDL driver rather than driving yourself, add daily driver management and payroll to that list.<\/p>\n<p>Talk to people who operate private hauling routes in other markets \u2014 not competitors you&#8217;ll face locally. Ask about the compliance burden, the time to profitability, and what broke first.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 2: Research Your Market \u2014 Confirm Private Hauling Is Permitted<\/h2>\n<p>This step comes before any spending. It&#8217;s the go\/no-go check for your entire startup.<\/p>\n<p>Many municipalities use exclusive franchise systems where a single hauler holds the right to collect residential garbage in a defined area. If your target city or county has one of those agreements in place, you can&#8217;t enter the residential collection market there.<\/p>\n<p><em>In plain terms \u2014 a franchise agreement is a contract between a municipality and a private hauler that grants that hauler the exclusive right to collect waste in a specific area. Other haulers can&#8217;t legally operate in that territory without the municipality&#8217;s authorization.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Commercial collection is more commonly open to competition, even in franchise markets. Rural and unincorporated areas are also more likely to be open to private haulers. But you need to verify this locally.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Before committing any capital, get answers to these questions:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Does this city or county have an exclusive residential garbage franchise held by another hauler?<\/li>\n<li>Are private commercial haulers required to obtain a franchise agreement, permit, or authorization before operating here?<\/li>\n<li>Does this jurisdiction cap the number of hauler licenses it issues?<\/li>\n<li>Does the nearest transfer station or landfill accept waste from private commercial haulers, and how do you set up an account?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Call the city&#8217;s solid waste department or the county&#8217;s environmental services office directly. Ask whether the market is open to new private haulers and what the authorization process involves.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 3: Choose Your Service Model<\/h2>\n<p>Decide what type of collection you&#8217;ll offer. The service model drives every other decision \u2014 truck type, compliance requirements, customer type, pricing structure, and route design.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The main service models for a route-based operation include:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Residential subscription collection<\/strong> \u2014 weekly or bi-weekly curbside pickup on a recurring route. Steady schedule, predictable stops, but lower revenue per stop than commercial work.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Commercial garbage collection<\/strong> \u2014 serving restaurants, offices, retailers, and other businesses. Higher revenue per account, fewer total stops, and more competition from established haulers.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Construction debris removal<\/strong> \u2014 roll-off container service for job sites and cleanouts. Requires a different truck configuration and has less schedule predictability than a subscription route.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Most new independent haulers start with one model. Launching multiple service types at once spreads your capital, your compliance setup, and your attention too thin.<\/p>\n<p>If you&#8217;re considering buying an existing route rather than building your own customer base, evaluate the current service model carefully. Verify contract terms, active customer count, disposal relationships, and the condition of any included equipment before committing.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 4: Define Your Service Territory and Validate Demand<\/h2>\n<p>Choose a specific geographic service territory before you design any route or set any pricing.<\/p>\n<p><em>Route density \u2014 the number of billable stops you can service per mile driven \u2014 is the primary driver of profitability in this business.<\/em> A dense route costs less per stop. A sparse route may cost more to service than it generates in revenue.<\/p>\n<p>A residential route needs enough stops per day to cover a driver, a truck, fuel, disposal fees, and insurance \u2014 with margin left over. A route that falls short of that threshold loses money even with consistent customers and reliable equipment.<\/p>\n<p>For commercial accounts, confirm that enough businesses in your target area aren&#8217;t already locked into long-term contracts with an incumbent hauler.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Your territory selection should answer these questions:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Can you realistically reach the stop density needed to cover your fixed costs in this area?<\/li>\n<li>Are there underserved areas \u2014 rural zones, open-market neighborhoods, or commercial strips where the current hauler has service complaints?<\/li>\n<li>How far is the nearest approved transfer station or landfill from the center of your service area, and how does that drive time affect your daily route capacity?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Disposal drive time matters more than most new haulers expect. Every mile to and from the transfer station is time not spent collecting \u2014 and fuel not earned back in revenue.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 5: Check Profit Potential Before Major Commitments<\/h2>\n<p>Before you buy or lease a truck, run the numbers on whether this route can actually support your costs.<\/p>\n<p>This business has high fixed costs that run whether you&#8217;re collecting or not. The truck payment, insurance, driver wages, and disposal account minimums don&#8217;t pause while you build your customer base.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Work through these questions with your own numbers before committing to a vehicle:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How many stops per day can you realistically serve in your target territory?<\/li>\n<li>What will you charge per residential or commercial stop, and is that price competitive in your market?<\/li>\n<li>What are the tipping fees at your nearest disposal facility, and how often will you need to make disposal runs per route day?<\/li>\n<li>What will fuel cost per route day for the truck type you&#8217;re considering?<\/li>\n<li>What does CDL driver labor cost if you&#8217;re not driving yourself?<\/li>\n<li>How many months will it take to build enough customers to cover fixed costs \u2014 and do you have capital to fund that gap?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Route density is the margin lever. More stops in less distance means lower cost per stop and better margin.<\/p>\n<p>A sparse route running too many miles between stops can make an otherwise reasonably priced service unprofitable.<\/p>\n<p>Commercial accounts carry higher revenue per stop than residential accounts and are worth prioritizing for margin improvement once you&#8217;re operating.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t sign a lease or purchase a truck until this analysis is done. See <a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/business-startup-considerations\/estimating-the-profitability-and-revenue-for-a-new-business\/\">estimating profitability for a new business<\/a> for a framework to work through the math.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 6: Register the Business and Handle Legal Setup<\/h2>\n<p>Handle your legal structure and business registration before anything else that requires a business name or tax ID.<\/p>\n<p>Choose a legal entity. An LLC is a common choice for this type of operation because it separates your personal liability from the business \u2014 relevant when you&#8217;re operating a commercial vehicle and handling potential property damage or accident liability.<\/p>\n<p>Learn more about <a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/starting-a-business\/how-to-choose-a-business-structure\/\">choosing a business structure<\/a> before you file.<\/p>\n<p>Register your entity with your state&#8217;s business registration office. If you&#8217;re operating under a trade name, file a DBA. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS \u2014 you&#8217;ll need it for banking, payroll, and some permit applications.<\/p>\n<p>Register for state sales tax if your jurisdiction taxes waste collection services. Register for state employer tax accounts if you plan to hire workers. Check with your state&#8217;s department of revenue for both.<\/p>\n<p>Open a dedicated <a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/starting-a-business\/how-to-open-a-business-bank-account\/\">business bank account<\/a> and keep all business finances separate from personal accounts from the start.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 7: Complete Compliance \u2014 Vehicle, Driver, and Hauler Requirements<\/h2>\n<p>This is the most layered compliance step in the entire startup process. You&#8217;re dealing with federal vehicle and driver requirements, a state waste hauler license, and local hauler authorization \u2014 all at the same time.<\/p>\n<p>Work through each layer separately, and confirm what&#8217;s required in your jurisdiction before assuming any requirement does or doesn&#8217;t apply.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Federal \u2014 USDOT Number<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Most garbage trucks exceed the federal weight threshold that triggers USDOT registration. <em>A USDOT number is a unique identifier issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to commercial carriers \u2014 it appears on both sides of your truck and tracks your safety record.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Some states also require USDOT registration for intrastate operations even if you never cross state lines. Register at fmcsa.dot.gov and verify your state&#8217;s intrastate rules separately.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Federal \u2014 Commercial Driver&#8217;s License<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Most full-size garbage trucks require a CDL. Vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more require a Class B CDL at minimum.<\/p>\n<p>An air brake endorsement is required for trucks equipped with air brakes, which covers most commercial refuse vehicles.<\/p>\n<p>Every driver who operates the truck must hold the appropriate license before the vehicle moves on a public road. If you&#8217;re not already licensed, build CDL training and testing time into your launch timeline.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Federal \u2014 DOT Physical and Drug Testing<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>CDL drivers must pass a DOT physical examination, valid for two years. If you hire CDL drivers, you must maintain a DOT-compliant drug and alcohol testing program \u2014 including pre-employment testing before anyone drives the truck.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Federal \u2014 Vehicle Markings<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Your USDOT number and company name must be displayed on both sides of the cab in a legible, contrasting color. Some local hauler permits add their own vehicle marking requirements.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Federal \u2014 EPA and RCRA<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em>RCRA stands for the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act \u2014 the federal law governing solid and hazardous waste management.<\/em> For haulers collecting ordinary residential or commercial garbage to a licensed disposal facility, federal hazardous waste regulations under RCRA don&#8217;t typically apply.<\/p>\n<p>But if you collect materials that qualify as hazardous waste \u2014 certain chemicals, used oil, or specific industrial materials \u2014 additional EPA requirements apply. Know what you&#8217;re collecting before you agree to any commercial account.<\/p>\n<p><strong>State \u2014 Solid Waste Hauler License<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Most states require a specific license or registration to transport solid waste commercially. This is separate from your USDOT number. Requirements, fees, and the issuing agency vary by state \u2014 check with your state&#8217;s environmental agency or department of environmental quality.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Local \u2014 Hauler Permit or Franchise Authorization<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Many cities and counties require private haulers to obtain a permit, franchise agreement, or authorization before collecting waste in their jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions cap the number of permits they issue. Some franchise agreements require you to pay a percentage of gross revenues to the municipality.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Check your target city or county&#8217;s solid waste department directly<\/strong> for the local hauler authorization process before assuming you can simply start operating.<\/p>\n<p>Also verify general business license requirements with your city clerk or county licensing office.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Workers&#8217; compensation<\/strong> is required by most states once you hire employees. Waste hauling carries a high-risk classification due to the physical demands and equipment hazards involved.<\/p>\n<p>See <a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/starting-a-business\/business-license-and-permits\/\">business licenses and permits<\/a> for general guidance on researching local requirements.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 8: Secure Your Vehicle and Equipment<\/h2>\n<p>The refuse truck is the primary capital asset of this operation, and choosing the right type for your service model matters before you commit to a purchase or lease.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The main truck types and their uses:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Rear-load truck<\/strong> \u2014 the most versatile option. Workers load waste through a large hopper at the back. Handles bags, bins, bulk items, and varying container types. A strong starting choice for mixed residential routes or operations where container standardization isn&#8217;t established.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Automated side-load truck<\/strong> \u2014 preferred for dense residential routes with standardized carts. A single driver can operate without a separate loader, which reduces labor cost on high-density routes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Front-load truck<\/strong> \u2014 uses hydraulic arms to lift commercial dumpsters. Required for commercial dumpster service. Not suited for residential curbside collection.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Roll-off truck<\/strong> \u2014 for large open-top container service such as construction debris and large cleanouts. A separate service model from subscription pickup routes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For most startup route operations, a rear-load truck is the practical entry vehicle. It handles mixed route conditions without requiring standardized containers from every customer.<\/p>\n<p>Decide whether to buy new, buy used, or lease. A new truck offers reliability but requires the largest upfront outlay. A used truck reduces initial capital but carries mechanical risk \u2014 have any used truck inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchase, with attention to the hydraulic system, packer blade, and compaction body.<\/p>\n<p>Leasing preserves capital but creates a fixed monthly payment before the route is profitable.<\/p>\n<p>Along with the truck, stock the cab with required safety equipment: high-visibility vests for all crew, work gloves, safety glasses, a first aid kit, a spill containment kit, and emergency road equipment.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 9: Establish a Disposal Arrangement<\/h2>\n<p>Every route needs a confirmed disposal destination before you collect your first bag of garbage. This is non-negotiable.<\/p>\n<p><em>A transfer station is an intermediate facility where waste from collection trucks is offloaded and consolidated for transport to a landfill. Not all haulers go directly to a landfill \u2014 many tip their loads at a transfer station, which is closer and faster.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Identify the transfer station or landfill nearest to your service territory and confirm it accepts waste from private commercial haulers. Set up a commercial account before launch \u2014 most facilities require an account and an initial deposit before they&#8217;ll accept commercial loads.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Once your account is active, know these details before your first route day:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Operating hours and last-entry cutoff times<\/li>\n<li>What materials are accepted and what is prohibited<\/li>\n<li>How loads are inspected and what a rejected load means for your schedule<\/li>\n<li>The tipping fee structure and how it&#8217;s billed or deducted from your account<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Drive time from your service area to the disposal facility affects your daily route capacity directly. The farther you drive to tip a load, the fewer stops you can complete per day.<\/p>\n<p>Factor disposal drive time into your territory selection and route design from the start.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 10: Set Up Insurance<\/h2>\n<p>Secure insurance before you apply for local permits or open your disposal facility account \u2014 many require proof of insurance as part of the application process.<\/p>\n<p>Commercial auto insurance is legally required for business-owned vehicles in most states. For a refuse truck, this is specialized commercial truck coverage \u2014 not a standard auto policy. Minimum liability limits vary by state and may also be set by your local hauler permit or franchise agreement.<\/p>\n<p>Learn more about <a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/starting-a-business\/business-insurance\/\">business insurance<\/a> coverage types before you shop for a policy.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Standard coverage to consider for a garbage hauling operation:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Commercial auto liability<\/strong> \u2014 required in most states; covers damage or injury caused by your vehicle<\/li>\n<li><strong>General liability<\/strong> \u2014 covers property damage or bodily injury that occurs during collection operations, not while driving<\/li>\n<li><strong>Pollution liability<\/strong> \u2014 covers cleanup costs from spills or leaks that occur during transport; relevant for any operation hauling waste near waterways or populated areas<\/li>\n<li><strong>Physical damage coverage<\/strong> \u2014 covers your truck against damage from accidents, fire, or theft<\/li>\n<li><strong>Workers&#8217; compensation<\/strong> \u2014 required for employees in most states; waste hauling carries a high-risk classification that affects premium rates<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Get quotes from insurers who specialize in commercial trucking or waste hauling. General business insurers may not write policies for refuse vehicles or may exclude compaction equipment from standard coverage.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 11: Set Up Pricing, Billing, and Payment Systems<\/h2>\n<p>Build your pricing from the bottom up using your actual cost structure \u2014 not competitor rates alone.<\/p>\n<p>Residential subscriptions are typically priced monthly or quarterly per household, based on service frequency. Commercial accounts are typically priced by container size and pickup frequency per week.<\/p>\n<p>The pricing for each account type must cover tipping fees, fuel, truck costs, insurance, and labor \u2014 and leave you a margin.<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t price below your full cost to win accounts. An account that doesn&#8217;t cover its share of fixed costs loses money every time you service it.<\/p>\n<p>Generic accounting software doesn&#8217;t handle route-based billing well. Purpose-built waste hauler billing software manages recurring subscriptions, automated invoicing, account history, and route records in a format built for this business. Set it up before your first customer, not after you have a billing backlog.<\/p>\n<p>Set up a <a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/starting-a-business\/merchant-account\/\">merchant account<\/a> capable of processing recurring payments \u2014 ACH bank transfers are common for subscription garbage collection accounts.<\/p>\n<p>Prepare a basic service agreement for new customers that specifies pickup frequency, container type, billing cycle, and what materials are accepted. Commercial accounts especially should be under a signed contract with a defined service term.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 12: Build the Route and Reach First Customers<\/h2>\n<p>First customers for a new independent hauler typically come from a few specific situations: underserved rural residential areas where no existing hauler operates consistently, open-market neighborhoods where residents choose their own hauler, and small commercial accounts with service complaints about their current provider.<\/p>\n<p>Large national haulers focus on high-density routes and standardized service. They&#8217;re less responsive on smaller commercial accounts and less present in rural areas. Those gaps are where an independent hauler can compete.<\/p>\n<p>Commercial property managers and small business owners make their own hauling decisions without going through municipal programs. They&#8217;re accessible targets for a new hauler who can offer consistent service and direct communication.<\/p>\n<p>Consider subcontracting with an existing hauler in your area as a way to generate route revenue and learn the operational flow while building your own customer base \u2014 if that option is available in your market.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 13: Hire and Train Staff if Needed<\/h2>\n<p>If you&#8217;re not driving the truck yourself, you need a CDL-licensed driver before the route can operate. That driver must hold the appropriate CDL class with air brake endorsement and have passed a DOT physical before operating any commercial vehicle for you.<\/p>\n<p>Rear-load trucks on residential routes typically require a second worker \u2014 a loader or helper \u2014 who rides the truck and handles manual loading. This labor cost must be factored into your route pricing before you set subscription rates.<\/p>\n<p>Automated side-load trucks can run with a single CDL driver on residential routes, which reduces daily labor cost on high-density runs.<\/p>\n<p>If you hire CDL drivers, set up a DOT-compliant drug and alcohol testing program before anyone drives. Pre-employment drug testing is required before a driver can operate a commercial motor vehicle.<\/p>\n<p>See <a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/starting-a-business\/how-and-when-to-hire\/\">how and when to hire<\/a> for general guidance on bringing on your first employee.<\/p>\n<h2>Step 14: Complete a Pre-Opening Test Run<\/h2>\n<p>Run at least one full test route before you officially open for customer service.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The test run should confirm:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The truck performs correctly through a full route cycle \u2014 loading, compaction, and driving<\/li>\n<li>Your disposal facility account is active, funded, and a load can be tipped without issue<\/li>\n<li>Your USDOT number and company name are properly displayed on both sides of the cab<\/li>\n<li>Any jurisdiction-required permit stickers or decals are affixed to the vehicle<\/li>\n<li>The CDL driver&#8217;s license, DOT physical, and drug test records are current and on file<\/li>\n<li>The billing system can generate an invoice and accept a payment<\/li>\n<li>All safety equipment is stocked and accessible in the cab<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>A breakdown or disposal issue on your first real route day damages your reputation with customers before you&#8217;ve had a chance to build it. The test run surfaces those problems while you still have time to fix them.<\/p>\n<h2>Business Plan<\/h2>\n<p>A garbage pickup route is a capital-intensive, compliance-heavy, route-dependent operation. Your plan needs to address each of those dimensions honestly before you commit to equipment or accounts.<\/p>\n<p>Start with the market access question. Confirm in writing \u2014 from the city or county solid waste department \u2014 whether private hauling is permitted in your target area and under what conditions.<\/p>\n<p>Next, build your cost structure from the ground up. List every fixed cost: truck payment or depreciation, commercial auto and liability insurance, workers&#8217; compensation if you&#8217;re hiring, disposal account minimums, billing software, and any loan payments.<\/p>\n<p>Then list your variable costs per route day: fuel, tipping fees per ton, and labor if you have crew on the truck.<\/p>\n<p>Work out the stop count you need to cover those costs at your planned pricing. If the geography of your target territory can&#8217;t support that stop count, the model needs to change before you proceed.<\/p>\n<p>Route density is the margin lever in this operation. More stops in less distance means lower cost per stop.<\/p>\n<p>A residential route that runs too many miles between homes may never be profitable regardless of subscription revenue. A commercial route with high-value accounts concentrated in one area can be profitable with fewer total stops.<\/p>\n<p>Plan for the customer-building gap. You&#8217;ll spend on fixed costs before your route is dense enough to cover them. Your plan should show how many months that gap is likely to last, how much capital you need to bridge it, and where that capital is coming from.<\/p>\n<p>Equipment financing and SBA loans are common funding paths for truck acquisition. A business line of credit can cover operating costs during the ramp-up period. Don&#8217;t deplete all available capital on the truck and leave nothing for the first 90 to 120 days of operations.<\/p>\n<p>Your plan should also document your disposal arrangement \u2014 which facility you&#8217;ll use, the tipping fee structure, account terms, and drive time from your service area. A disposal relationship with poor terms or long drive distances compresses your margin on every route day.<\/p>\n<p>Finally, plan for the compliance costs that come before you earn the first dollar: state waste hauler registration, local hauler permit or franchise fee, CDL training if needed, DOT physical and drug testing, insurance premiums, and any franchise revenue-sharing obligations.<\/p>\n<p>See <a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/starting-a-business\/how-to-write-a-business-plan\/\">how to write a business plan<\/a> for a framework to organize all of this into a working document.<\/p>\n<h2>Opening-Day Red Flags<\/h2>\n<p>These are issues that should stop your first route day if they&#8217;re not resolved. Don&#8217;t collect a single bag of garbage until each one is confirmed.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The truck isn&#8217;t legally marked.<\/strong> Your USDOT number and company name must be displayed on both sides of the cab before the vehicle operates on a public road. Operating without required markings is a federal violation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The CDL or DOT physical isn&#8217;t current.<\/strong> Any driver operating the truck must have a current CDL with the correct endorsements and a valid DOT physical on file. A lapsed physical means the driver isn&#8217;t legally cleared to operate the vehicle.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The drug test hasn&#8217;t been completed.<\/strong> Pre-employment drug testing is required before a CDL driver operates a commercial motor vehicle for your operation. No test on file means the driver can&#8217;t legally drive.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The disposal account isn&#8217;t funded.<\/strong> If your transfer station account falls below its required minimum balance, you may be turned away at the gate. Verify the account balance and confirm it&#8217;s in good standing the day before your first route.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Insurance isn&#8217;t active or certificates aren&#8217;t on file.<\/strong> Some local hauler permits and transfer station accounts require proof of insurance. Confirm your policy is bound and your certificates are submitted wherever they&#8217;re required before the truck rolls.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The local hauler permit isn&#8217;t in hand.<\/strong> If your target jurisdiction requires a franchise agreement, hauler permit, or authorization, operating without it is a compliance violation. Confirm the permit is issued \u2014 not just applied for \u2014 before collecting.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The billing system isn&#8217;t ready.<\/strong> Test the billing process with a real account before launch day so you can generate an invoice and accept payment when a customer asks.<\/p>\n<p><strong>No backup plan for a breakdown.<\/strong> Know before you launch what you&#8217;ll do if the truck breaks down mid-route. A rental arrangement, a subcontracting contact, or a repair fund \u2014 you need at least one of these in place before the first customer is on your route.<\/p>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Do I need a CDL to drive my own garbage truck?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>In most cases, yes. Most commercial garbage trucks exceed federal weight thresholds that require a Commercial Driver&#8217;s License.<\/p>\n<p>A Class B CDL with an air brake endorsement covers most rear-load, side-load, and front-load refuse trucks. The specific class required depends on the vehicle&#8217;s weight and configuration. Check FMCSA requirements and your state&#8217;s driver licensing agency before operating any commercial refuse vehicle.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Can I start a residential garbage pickup route anywhere in the U.S.?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>No. Many municipalities use exclusive franchise agreements that give a single hauler the sole right to collect residential garbage in that area. Research whether your target area is an open market or a franchise territory before investing in equipment.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What is a tipping fee, and how does it affect my operation?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>A tipping fee is the per-ton charge you pay to dispose of waste at a transfer station or landfill. It&#8217;s one of your primary variable costs and must be factored into every service price you set.<\/p>\n<p>You need a confirmed disposal facility account before your first pickup. Operating without one isn&#8217;t possible.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Do I need a state license in addition to federal requirements?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>In most states, yes. Most states require private waste haulers to obtain a specific license or registration to transport solid waste \u2014 separate from your federal USDOT number.<\/p>\n<p>Requirements and fees vary by state. Check with your state&#8217;s environmental agency or department of environmental quality before launching.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What is route density, and why does it matter?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Route density is the number of billable stops you can service per mile driven. A denser route costs less per stop in fuel and time.<\/p>\n<p>A route running too few stops per mile may cost more to operate than it generates in revenue \u2014 regardless of what you charge. Plan your service territory around maximizing stop density before expanding.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Is it better to buy an existing garbage route or start one from scratch?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Buying an existing route gives you immediate revenue, an established customer list, and active disposal relationships. Starting from scratch gives you more control over pricing and contracts, but requires a customer acquisition period where you cover fixed costs before the route is profitable.<\/p>\n<p>Either path requires thorough due diligence on local market access, permit status, disposal arrangements, and equipment condition.<\/p>\n<p><strong>How do I price my collection service?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Build pricing from the ground up using your actual cost structure: tipping fees per ton, fuel per route day, truck cost, insurance, and labor. Research competitor rates as a reference, but don&#8217;t price below your full cost to win accounts.<\/p>\n<p>Residential accounts are typically priced as a monthly or quarterly subscription per household. Commercial accounts are typically priced by container size and pickup frequency.<\/p>\n<p><strong>What type of garbage truck should I buy first?<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>For most new route operations, a rear-load refuse truck is the most practical starting vehicle. It handles bags, bins, bulk items, and varying container types without requiring standardized carts from every customer.<\/p>\n<p>Match the truck type to your planned service model and route conditions before purchasing. A commercial-only operation will eventually need a front-load truck. A high-density residential route built around standardized carts may benefit from an automated side-load configuration.<\/p>\n<h2>Interviews with Garbage Pickup Service Professionals<\/h2>\n<p>These interviews share practical experiences from owners working in waste hauling, dumpster rental, garbage pickup, junk removal, and recycling. They discuss equipment, pricing, customer acquisition, route planning, compliance, partnerships, financial decisions, and the challenges of serving customers reliably.<\/p>\n<p>Readers can use this advice to evaluate startup costs, service options, local demand, equipment needs, operating risks, and customer expectations. The interviews also reveal mistakes and difficult situations that may not be obvious when planning the business.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.kiplinger.com\/personal-finance\/my-first-million-23-waste-hauling-business-owner-wyoming\">My First $1 Million: Waste Hauling and Recycling Business Owner, 40, Wyoming<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">This written interview follows a Wyoming waste hauling and recycling business owner who built wealth through metal recycling and garbage services. He discusses reinvesting in land, equipment, inventory, and employees while managing long hours and difficult business conditions.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">The interview helps prospective owners understand the patience, financial discipline, personal commitment, and team support involved in building a waste business. It also provides a realistic view of setbacks, demanding schedules, and capital reinvestment.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/veteran-to-entrepreneur-the-unbelievable-growth-of\/id1752658048?i=1000672166623&amp;l=ko\">Veteran to Entrepreneur: The Unbelievable Growth of Prime Sanitation!<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">Prime Sanitation co-owner Matt Ferguson explains how the company entered dumpster rental and trash can cleaning. The discussion covers equipment purchases, business partnerships, marketing, route management, customer software, vehicle problems, and transportation regulations.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">This interview is useful because it examines several decisions a new operator may face, including choosing equipment, combining related services, finding customers, managing routes, and avoiding rushed purchases. It also addresses unexpected repair costs and regulatory challenges.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/au\/podcast\/josh-daniel-owner-operator-of-trashhelp-interview-12-100\/id1779598970?i=1000718447224\">Josh Daniel, Owner &amp; Operator of TrashHelp (Interview 12\/100)<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">TrashHelp founder Josh Daniel describes operating a dumpster rental and junk removal company in Florida. He discusses physically demanding jobs, estate cleanouts, storm cleanup, evictions, hoarding situations, employee leadership, and serving customers during stressful circumstances.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">The conversation shows why this business requires more than trucks and disposal access. Prospective owners can learn about emotional judgment, customer communication, employee conduct, community relationships, and the difficult conditions crews may encounter.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/be\/podcast\/from-side-hustle-to-junk-business\/id1805620690?i=1000737263595&amp;l=nl\">From Side Hustle to Junk Business<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">A1 Junk Xpress owner Gabe Mendoza discusses pricing dumpster rentals, purchasing equipment with cash, attracting customers, building a recognizable brand, participating in the community, understanding financial statements, and complying with waste hauling regulations.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">This interview gives prospective owners practical points to investigate before opening, including pricing, debt, permits, customer acquisition, and financial tracking. It also explains why controlled, incremental growth may be more manageable than expanding too quickly.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 40px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/preparing-for-success-setbacks-with-ryan-tabb\/id1355544407?i=1000715167411\">Preparing for Success &amp; Setbacks with Ryan Tabb<\/a><\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">Peachtree Junk Removal founder Ryan Tabb explains how experience at a trash pickup company helped him identify demand for bulk-item removal. He discusses business planning, professionalism, customer retention, digital marketing, leadership, relationships, and lessons from mistakes.<\/p>\n<p style=\"padding-left: 80px;\">The interview is valuable for someone assessing local demand and preparing a service plan. It emphasizes professional standards, reliable customer service, thoughtful marketing, and preparing the company for both positive growth and unexpected setbacks.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube-nocookie.com\/embed\/7yw5JrrtF_0?si=peyF8W9QCmhWB_br\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<h3>Related Articles<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/startup-ideas\/dumpster-rental-business\/\">How To Start a Dumpster Rental Business<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/startup-ideas\/dump-truck-business\/\">How To Start a Dump Truck Business<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/startup-ideas\/recycling-business\/\">How To Start a Recycling Business<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/startup-ideas\/environmental-cleanup-business\/\">How To Start an Environmental Cleanup Business<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/startup-ideas\/composting-business\/\">How To Start a Composting Business<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/atouchofbusiness.com\/startup-ideas\/e-waste-recycling-business\/\">How To Start an E-Waste Recycling Business<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Sources:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>FMCSA \/ Truckopedia: <a title=\"Truckopedia - Do I Need a DOT Number\" href=\"https:\/\/www.truckopedia.com\/blog\/do-i-need-a-dot-number\/\">USDOT Number Requirements<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Big Truck Rental: <a title=\"Big Truck Rental - Which Garbage Trucks Are Best\" href=\"https:\/\/bigtruckrental.com\/blog\/garbage-truck-rental-service\/which-garbage-trucks-are-the-best-fit-for-your-waste-management-business\/\">Garbage Truck Type Guide<\/a>, <a title=\"Big Truck Rental - Garbage Truck Types for Route\" href=\"https:\/\/bigtruckrental.com\/blog\/garbage-truck-rental-service\/garbage-truck-types-for-your-route-type\/\">Truck Types for Route Types<\/a>, <a title=\"Big Truck Rental - Independent Hauler Challenges\" href=\"https:\/\/bigtruckrental.com\/blog\/environmental\/independent-hauler-challenges-and-how-to-overcome-them\/\">Independent Hauler Challenges<\/a>, <a title=\"Big Truck Rental - CDL for Garbage Truck\" href=\"https:\/\/bigtruckrental.com\/blog\/environmental\/do-you-need-a-cdl-to-drive-a-garbage-truck\/\">CDL for Garbage Trucks<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Haaker Refuse: <a title=\"Haaker Refuse - Rear vs Side vs Front Loader\" href=\"https:\/\/haakerrefuse.com\/rear-loader-vs-side-loader-vs-front-loader-which-refuse-truck-is-right-for-your-route\/\">Refuse Truck Body Type Comparison<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Simplex Group: <a title=\"Simplex Group - Garbage Truck Driver Qualifications\" href=\"https:\/\/simplexgroup.net\/garbage-truck-driver-qualifications\/\">Garbage Truck Driver Qualifications<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Progressive Commercial: <a title=\"Progressive Commercial - Garbage Truck Insurance\" href=\"https:\/\/www.progressivecommercial.com\/commercial-auto-insurance\/garbage-truck-insurance\/\">Garbage Truck Insurance<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Wexford Insurance: <a title=\"Wexford Insurance - Garbage Truck Insurance for Private Haulers\" href=\"https:\/\/www.wexfordins.com\/post\/garbage-truck-insurance-municipal-private-haulers-need-to-know\">Hauler Insurance Overview<\/a><\/li>\n<li>U.S. EPA: <a title=\"EPA - RCRA Overview\" href=\"https:\/\/www.epa.gov\/rcra\/resource-conservation-and-recovery-act-rcra-overview\">RCRA Overview<\/a><\/li>\n<li>OSHA: <a title=\"OSHA - 1910.141 Sanitation\" href=\"https:\/\/www.osha.gov\/laws-regs\/regulations\/standardnumber\/1910\/1910.141\">OSHA Sanitation Standard 1910.141<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Cost Analysts: <a title=\"Cost Analysts - Municipal Waste Recycling Contract Tips\" href=\"https:\/\/www.costanalysts.com\/top-7-things-to-do-for-your-citys-next-waste-and-recycling-contract\/\">Franchised vs. Open Market Collection<\/a><\/li>\n<li>BioCycle: <a title=\"BioCycle - Waste Hauling Franchise Agreement Fundamentals\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biocycle.net\/waste-hauling-franchise-agreement-fundamentals\/\">Hauling Franchise Agreement Fundamentals<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Waste360: <a title=\"Waste360 - Commercial Franchise Zones Explained\" href=\"https:\/\/www.waste360.com\/commercial-waste\/commercial-franchise-zones-explained\">Franchise Zone Collection Explained<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Prince Motors USA: <a title=\"Prince Motors USA - Making Money with a Used Garbage Truck\" href=\"https:\/\/www.princemotorsusa.com\/public\/blog\/13-How-to-Make-Money-by-Purchasing-a-Used-Garbage-Truck.html\">Independent Hauler Competition Notes<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Waste Connections SEC Filing: <a title=\"Waste Connections - 10-K FY2008 Competition Section\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sec.gov\/Archives\/edgar\/data\/0001057058\/000118811209000241\/t64487_10k.htm\">Industry Competition Structure<\/a><\/li>\n<li>CT Acquisitions: <a title=\"CT Acquisitions - Waste Hauling Business Valuation\" href=\"https:\/\/ctacquisitions.com\/guides\/waste-hauling-business-valuation\/\">Route Density and Profitability<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Route Consultant: <a title=\"Route Consultant - Waste Management Margins and Valuations\" href=\"https:\/\/routeconsultant.com\/industry-insights\/waste-margins-valuations\">Waste Management Route Margins<\/a><\/li>\n<li>MCMUA: <a title=\"MCMUA - Transfer Station FAQs\" href=\"https:\/\/mcmua.com\/sw_ts.asp\">Transfer Station Account Requirements<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Miami-Dade County: <a title=\"Miami-Dade County - General Hauler Permit\" href=\"https:\/\/www.miamidade.gov\/global\/permit.page?Mduid_permit=per1512420973769266\">General Hauler Permit Requirements<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Sage US: <a title=\"Sage US - How to Start a Waste Management Business\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/how-to-start-a-waste-management-business\/\">Waste Management Business Startup<\/a><\/li>\n<li>EK Insurance: <a title=\"EK Insurance - Waste Haulers and Garbage Collection Insurance\" href=\"https:\/\/ekinsurance.com\/small-business\/waste-haulers-and-garbage-collection-insurance\/\">Waste Hauler Insurance Coverage<\/a><\/li>\n<li>TrashLab: <a title=\"TrashLab - Waste Billing Software\" href=\"https:\/\/trashlab.com\/waste-billing-software\">Waste Hauler Billing Software<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What to Expect From This Guide to Starting a Garbage Pickup Service This guide walks you through the key decisions and practical steps involved in starting a garbage pickup service, from evaluating the opportunity to preparing your first route. The highlights below show several of the important areas covered. Inside the guide, you will find: &#8230; <a title=\"Garbage Pickup Service\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/?p=16176\" aria-label=\"Read more about Garbage Pickup Service\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-16176","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16176","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=16176"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16176\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16721,"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16176\/revisions\/16721"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=16176"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=16176"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.aceygaspard.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=16176"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}