Roll Off Truck History
How it Works
I believe the roll-off truck developed around the late 70’s. Its cab is a standard tractor (like dump trucks), but it is equipped with an extra two axles and a very solid frame for 20 ton loads. On top of the frame is a hoist which consists of a powerful winch and two bars that slide under the dumpster. The trick is to position the two bars under the metal wheels on the dumpster. Then you attach your winch and pull the heavy dumpster up the tracks. You need to use the “stinger” as a lever to level the can as you pull.
Changing the Industry
The Roll Off changed the wast industry because it allowed a major amount waste to be stored in a 20-40 yd. cubic bin. The need for a dump was much less often and building projects could be cleaned up with much ease. Compactors (seen here) were also developed to compact trash on site. Almost all major supermarkets and large retailers use compactors today to cut down on dump frequency.