What Technologies Go on a Trash Truck Today?

Trash trucks have come a long way from the loud, low-tech machines of the past. Today’s waste collection vehicles are rolling hubs of technology designed not just to haul garbage, but to improve safety, efficiency, and data visibility. Whether you're a private hauler or a municipal fleet, understanding what tech goes on a modern trash truck can help you make smarter investments and stay competitive.

Here are the key technologies powering today’s top-performing waste trucks:

1. GPS and Telematics

Modern trash trucks are equipped with GPS units and telematics systems that track vehicle location, speed, route history, and driver behavior. These systems help dispatchers monitor operations in real-time, identify inefficiencies, and respond quickly to service issues or route changes.

Benefits:

• Route tracking and optimization

• Driver performance monitoring

• Fuel usage and idle time reports

2. In-Cab Tablets or Mobile Devices

Drivers use mounted tablets or rugged mobile devices that run apps like Hauler Hero to view daily routes, access service notes, check customer information, and mark jobs as complete, even without a signal, thanks to offline mode.

Benefits:

• Digital access to route and customer info

• Real-time sync with office teams

• Issue reporting from the field

3. Cameras and Safety Sensors

Many waste trucks now come equipped with 360° cameras, rearview cameras, and proximity sensors. These provide better visibility for drivers and reduce accidents during backing, dumping, and residential pickups. Some systems even offer real-time alerts and collision warnings.

Benefits:

• Improved driver safety

• Reduced insurance costs and liability

• Footage for incident verification

4. Automated Lifting and Load Measurement

For front-load and side-load trucks, automation has streamlined pickups. Hydraulic arms automatically grab, lift, and dump bins with minimal driver effort. Many systems include onboard load sensors to weigh each pickup.

Benefits:

• Faster, more consistent service

• Reduced worker fatigue

• Improved billing accuracy (based on weight or volume)

5. RFID and Barcode Scanners

Some trucks use RFID tags or barcode scanners to verify service at specific stops. These tags are placed on bins and scanned upon collection, providing proof of service and helping reduce missed pickups.

Benefits:

• Proof of service

• Better tracking of assets and bins

• Reduced customer disputes

6. Onboard DVIR and Maintenance Tools

With electronic Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIR), drivers can complete pre- and post-trip inspections directly from their in-cab tablet. Integrated systems can flag maintenance issues and sync with fleet management platforms.

Benefits:

• Easier compliance with DOT and FMCSA

• Fewer missed issues

• Streamlined communication between drivers and mechanics

7. Two-Way Communication Tools

Modern trucks often include push-to-talk systems, messaging apps, or integration with dispatch tools to keep drivers connected with the office throughout the day.

Benefits:

• Faster response to issues

• Real-time updates to route changes

• Safer than relying on phone calls

Final Thoughts

The modern waste truck is more than a vehicle, it’s a mobile operations center. Equipping your fleet with the right technology not only boosts safety and compliance but also leads to better customer service, lower costs, and stronger data for decision-making.

With Hauler Hero, your team can connect field tech to back-office systems, bringing together routing, reporting, billing, and issue management in one powerful platform.

Ready to bring your fleet into the future?
Let’s talk about the tools your team needs to drive smarter waste collection.