Class of service refers to container type. Commercial service is for containers 1 yard and above. Residential customers pay the cost to provide residential service and commercial customers pay the cost to provide commercial service. This policy prevents support from commercial profits for residential service costs, a scenario not uncommon in other jurisdictions. Past advisory groups, including a Council committee in 1992, have supported this approach as a way to preserve existing, local haulers and help ensure that those who generate waste bear their own costs.
Residential service is more labor intensive and more costly to provide.
Residential collection rates for the City of Eugene have been progressive since December 1994. This means collection rates are on a per pound basis, with greater weights being charged more per pound. There is no 'quantity' discount for residential service. Weight studies are done every two years to determine an average weight for each container size. Progressive rates help fulfill the City's requirements under the Oregon Recycling Act and encourage residents to recycle.