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Rubbish Removal · 22 January 2025

WhatActuallyHappenstoYourRubbishAfterCollection?

A question I get asked a lot. Here's exactly where your rubbish goes after I collect it — and why using a licensed carrier actually matters.

4 min read

People ask me this more than you'd think. 'Where does it all go?' It's a fair question — especially after you've read about fly-tipping in Gravesend and Northfleet. So here's the honest answer.

Licensed waste carriers take it to authorised facilities

I'm a licensed waste carrier — EA licence CBDU330845. That means every load I collect gets taken to a registered transfer station or recycling facility. Not to a field, not to a layby, not to someone else's skip. A proper licensed site.

What gets recycled?

Quite a lot, actually. Metal gets stripped out and sent for scrap. Wood goes to biomass or composting. Cardboard and paper goes to recycling. Furniture in good condition sometimes gets donated before it ever reaches the facility. The transfer station handles final sorting — they're set up to separate materials properly.

What about white goods and fridges?

Fridges and freezers need specialist handling because of the refrigerant gases inside — that's why there's sometimes a small extra charge. They go to an authorised treatment facility (AATF) where the gases are extracted safely before the appliance is recycled.

What is a waste transfer note and do I need one?

A waste transfer note (WTN) is the legal document that records the transfer of waste from you (the producer) to me (the licensed carrier). It's required by law for commercial waste. For domestic clearances I keep records on my end. If you need a copy for landlord, probate, or insurance purposes, just ask.

Why does it matter who you hire?

Because if someone fly-tips your rubbish and it's traced back to a bag with your name or address on it, you can be held responsible — even if you paid someone else to take it. Using a licensed carrier like me means you're legally protected. You can verify my licence on the Environment Agency's public register: search CBDU330845.

If you've got questions about a specific job or type of waste, WhatsApp me on 07479 786772. I'll give you a straight answer.

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