Imagine starting a trash business and making $30,000 in just 11 days. Spencer Scott, who transitioned from software development to running his own garbage collection business, turned this idea into reality. Here’s how he got started, generated cash fast, and minimized risks to create a business with recurring revenue and scalable potential.
The Lightbulb Moment: Turning Frustration Into Opportunity
Spencer’s journey began when a local garbage company stopped offering bulk pickup services, leaving customers frustrated. Spotting the complaints in a Facebook group, he posted, “If you’re all as mad as you say, I’ll start a trash company.”
The response was overwhelming. Within 10 days, 150 people signed up, each committing to three months of service at $33 per month. This pre-sale generated $15,000 in revenue before he even launched.
Quick Math to Validate the Idea
Before committing, Spencer ran quick numbers:
- Local Market Size: 400 potential households in his neighborhood
- Price Point: $33/month (the existing rate customers were already paying)
- Service Efficiency: Trash pickup required just one day per week
With these simple calculations, Spencer realized this business model could work.
Building the Business in Record Time
From the moment pre-sales hit his bank account to launching the service, Spencer executed his plan in 45 days. Here’s how:
- Sourcing Equipment: After scouring Facebook Marketplace, he purchased a side-loading garbage truck for $35,000. Financing was secured with a personal loan at 7% interest.
- Getting Trash Bins: Facing long lead times for new bins, Spencer located used ones through a third-party company, which he had shipped to his driveway just two days before Christmas. He cleaned and prepped them himself to meet the launch date.
- Branding and Logistics: Although initial bins arrived branded with another company’s logo, customers didn’t mind. The focus was on reliable service, and Spencer added his branding later.
- Routing and Payments: He implemented routing software ($100/month) and Stripe for payments (3% transaction fee) to streamline operations.
The Numbers: Revenue, Costs, and Profits
Spencer’s trash business operates on a simple model:
- Revenue: $33/month per household
- Costs:
- Truck financing: $700/month
- Insurance: Under $700/month
- Gas: $70/trip
- Driver wages: $18/hour
- Other overhead (e.g., routing software, web hosting): $120/month
With recurring revenue, low operating costs, and minimal labor requirements, the business achieves approximately 20% profit margins at scale. In his first year, Spencer estimates he could comfortably take home $50,000 while reinvesting for growth.
Why Trash? The Appeal of a Boring Business
Spencer chose trash for several reasons:
- Recurring Revenue: Like a software subscription, customers pay monthly for service.
- Lindy Effect: Trash collection is essential and unlikely to be disrupted by technology.
- Low Competition: The market is dominated by large firms that struggle to serve small residential areas effectively.

Overcoming Challenges
Running a trash business comes with its hurdles:
- Equipment Risk: Buying used trucks can be unpredictable, but Spencer mitigated this by verifying maintenance records and arranging partial payments until the truck was delivered.
- Dirty Work: Trash collection is physically demanding, but Spencer enjoys the hands-on nature of the job.
- Hiring: Finding reliable drivers can be a challenge, especially for part-time roles.
Key Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
- Pre-Sell Your Service: Validate demand and secure cash flow before investing in equipment.
- Leverage Local Networks: Facebook groups and community word-of-mouth were instrumental in Spencer’s early success.
- Buy Used and Save: He sourced affordable equipment on Facebook Marketplace and from city auctions.
- Recurring Revenue is King: Monthly subscriptions provide predictable income and long-term stability.
- Focus on Growth: Spencer plans to reinvest profits into more trucks, bins, and drivers to scale his business.
What’s Next for Spencer?
Spencer aims to grow his trash company to $300,000–$500,000 in annual revenue. With a scalable model and a strong local presence, he sees potential for selling the business at a multiple of 2x revenue.
Final Takeaway: What’s the Worst That Could Happen?
Starting a trash business may not be glamorous, but it’s an opportunity to build something with real value. By pre-selling services, managing costs, and focusing on recurring revenue, you can create a business that’s both profitable and rewarding.
So, what’s stopping you? As Spencer’s story shows, the American dream might just be one garbage truck away.