USDA

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this the official USDA website?

This page and website is a part of the Wastebits Locator, providing a comprehensive resource of contact information for waste handlers. It is not the official website of USDA.

Are you affiliated with USDA? Is there information that we can update to keep things accurate? Use this form to request an edit to this page.

What licensing is required for waste transportation?

In the United States, waste transportation is subject to federal and state regulations. Depending on the type of waste being transported, operators may need to obtain a hazardous materials endorsement (HME) issued by their State’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

HMEs are only required for transporting certain types of hazardous materials. Other licensing requirements may be set by the Department of Transportation (DOT), the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and/or state environmental agencies.

Additionally, operators must comply with all applicable laws regarding waste transportation in their respective states and local jurisdictions. For more information, please get in touch with your State's DMV or relevant environmental agency.

What are the types of waste that can be transported?

Different types of waste can be transported depending on state and local regulations. Generally, these include household hazardous waste (HHW), industrial waste, medical waste, food waste, and scrap materials.

HHW includes items such as paints and motors oils; industrial waste includes manufacturing byproducts; medical waste includes infectious biological materials; food waste includes unused food items; and scrap materials include metals, plastics, and other recyclable materials.

It is important to contact your State's DMV or relevant environmental agency for more information on the types of waste that can be transported in your area.

How should I package and label my waste materials?

Packaging and labeling waste materials should follow all applicable state, federal and local regulations. Generally, hazardous materials must be packaged securely for transport to prevent leakage or release of the substance.

Additionally, containers should be labeled with information about the type of material contained in them as well as any hazard warnings that may apply. Further guidance can usually be found on the website of the State’s DMV or relevant environmental agency.

How much does waste transportation cost?

The cost of waste transportation varies depending on the type of waste being transported and the distance it is being moved.

Generally, hazardous materials are more expensive to transport than non-hazardous materials due to additional safety measures that must be taken. Additionally, the amount of waste being transported will also affect the cost. Contact your local waste transporter for a cost estimate.

What are the safety regulations for transporting waste?

Safety regulations for waste transportation are set by the US Department of Transportation (DOT) and must be strictly followed.

These include proper packaging and labeling, using only approved vehicles to transport hazardous materials, providing appropriate driver training, maintaining accurate records of all shipments, and abiding by local and state laws. Further guidance can usually be found on the website of the State’s DMV or relevant environmental agency.

Failure to follow these regulations can result in fines and other penalties. It is, therefore, important that operators comply with all applicable laws and regulations before, during, and after waste transportation.

Can I transport my waste materials?

It is generally not recommended for individuals to transport their waste materials.

This is because transporting hazardous materials requires specialized knowledge, equipment, and training that may not be available to the general public. It is important to contact your local waste transporter for more information on the safe and legal transportation of waste materials.