Do I need a waste carrier registration?
Who needs to register as a waste carrier, broker or dealer, and how customers can check a registration.
Who needs to register
Businesses that transport waste, buy or sell it, or arrange for others to move it, usually need to register. That includes man and van rubbish removal, skip hire, clearance firms and many tradespeople who take away their own waste from jobs. The rules depend on the type of waste and your business, so check the official guidance.
How to register
In England you register with the Environment Agency through GOV.UK. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own regulators. Registration has to be renewed, so keep track of your expiry date.
Show your registration
Customers are told to check a carrier before handing over waste. Make your registration number easy to find on your van, quotes and receipts, and give a waste transfer note or receipt for every job.
Spotted something wrong or out of date? Tell us and we will check it.
More guides
Digital waste tracking: what businesses need to know
The new government service for recording waste movements: who must use it, from when, and how to get ready.
Business waste: your duty of care
What every business must do with its waste: storing it safely, using registered carriers and keeping transfer notes.
Simpler Recycling: what workplaces must do
The recycling rules for businesses and other workplaces in England, including the 2027 deadline for small businesses.
Garden waste: compost, council bin or collection?
Choose a route for grass, branches and garden clear-outs, and understand why soil, rubble and fencing need a separate conversation.