· General Information
o What does Clearstream Recycling do?
§ ClearStream designs, manufactures, and stocks recycling and waste collection containers, bins, and products used at events, schools, municipalities, facilities across the country, and all public spaces. Our products include bins/frames, containers, lids, bags, decals, and signage that help organizations create organized, efficient recycling stations.
o Where are Clearstream Products made?
§ ClearStream products are made in the USA. Our products are manufactured domestically to ensure consistent quality, reliable supply, and support for American manufacturing.
o Who Uses ClearStream Systems?
§ ClearStream systems are used by municipalities, universities, schools, event organizers, and waste management teams across the United States. Our containers are trusted at festivals, stadiums, parks, campuses, and public venues where clean, visible recycling and waste collection are essential.
o Does ClearStream accept any recycling or waste materials?
§ No. ClearStream does not service, collect, or process recycling or waste materials. We manufacture bins, containers, bags, decals, and signage used for recycling and waste collection. All materials gathered in ClearStream containers should be handled by your local waste or recycling provider.
· Ordering and Customization
o Can I order Custom Signs, Banners, Bags, and Decals?
§ Yes. ClearStream offers custom-printed signage, banners, bags, and decals to match your program or event branding. Customers can include logos, colors, or messaging to clearly identify recycling streams or promote sponsors.
To request a quote or submit artwork, visit our Custom Bags page or contact our team at sales@clearstreamrecycling.com or call us at (855) 411-4321
o Are you able to produce custom containers and products not shown on your website?
§ ClearStream has the capabilities to customize and fabricate different products and designs to meet each customer’s needs, minimum quantities must be met for custom containers.
o Is there a minimum order for custom products?
§ Yes. Minimum quantities vary by product type. For custom bags, minimum order quantities vary based on the specs of the custom bags, but are typically one pallet or two pallets for draw tape bags. For custom Event Boxes, the minimum order is 250 boxes. Custom signage and decals may have different minimums depending on size, design, and print requirements.
o Your website shows boxes that are 18x18x34 and 18x18x30, are you able to produce other box and carton sizes?
§ We are able to produce different custom boxes with different sizes and styles. A one-time additional charge to create the tooling for the box is required for custom sizes and styles.
o What is a Tooling Charge/Printing Plate charge?
§ A printing plate charge is a one-time fee that allows us to print a logo or artwork on bags, event boxes, or custom hot-stamped lids. Once the plate is made, you can reuse the exact same artwork in future orders without paying this charge again.
§ A tooling charge is also a one-time fee, but it applies when we need to create a new size or style of product, for example, a custom event box, a custom lid, or a container that differs from our standard stock options. For custom containers, the tooling cost mainly covers the weld fixtures needed to manufacture that new design.
o What does “±10% of the original production order” mean for custom event boxes and lids?
§ This refers to standard manufacturing tolerance. The final quantity produced may vary by up to 10% above or below the original order amount due to setup adjustments and material usage during production. Customers are invoiced for the actual quantity produced.
o Are we able to produce different sizes and Colors for custom bags?
§ Yes. ClearStream can produce custom bags in a wide range of sizes, thicknesses, and colors to fit your specific collection needs. Options include star seal, flat bottom, and draw tape styles. Minimum quantities and lead times vary depending on the bag styles, dimensions, and thickness.
o What color film/plastic and print colors are available for custom event boxes?
§ ClearStream offers a wide variety of bag and print options.
· Our Ink Colors include: White, Black, Crème, Lemon Yellow, Golden Yellow, Orange, Pink, Cerise, Flamingo, Bright Red, Standard Red, Dark Red, Grape, Sky Blue, Teal, Cyan Blue, Medium Blue, Reflex Blue, Royal Blue, Victoria Blue, Midnight Blue, Lime, Turquoise, Medium Green, Standard Green, Forest Green, Sun Gold, Rich Gold, Bronze, Silver, Warm Gray, Cool Grey, Charcoal, Sand, Brown, Chocolate, Sand, Brown, Light Burgandy, Medium Burgundy and Dark, Burgundy.
· Our Film Colors: Red, Blue, Dark Brown, Buff, Cream Buff, Cream Buff, Dark Green, Ivory, Kraft I Beige, Orange, Pink Rose, Sky Blue, Viking Blue
o How long do Custom Orders Take to Ship?
§ Custom orders typically ship within 3–4 weeks after the printing plates have been received. Production timelines may vary slightly based on seasonal demands and artwork approval. It is always recommended to provide additional time for production and delivery. Our team will provide an estimated ship date once your order details are confirmed.
o Can I place an order by phone or email?
§ Yes. Orders can be placed by phone or email. You can call our team at (855) 411-4321 during regular business hours, or email sales@clearstreamrecycling.com with your order details. We’ll confirm your order, provide a quote if needed, and send an invoice for secure payment before shipping.
o Do we charge sales tax?
§ ClearStream charges tax on orders shipped within the state of Illinois. Orders shipped outside of Illinois, ClearStream does not charge sales tax. If your organization is located in Illinois and is tax-exempt, please provide a copy of your tax-exemption certificate prior to placing your order so we can ensure no tax is charged. ClearStream Recycling does not meet the nexus thresholds for states outside of Illinois. As such, Clearstream Recycling is not required to register and collect sales tax on sales orders shipped to states outside of Illinois. Your company/organization may be responsible for the self-assessment and remittance of Use Tax on your order based on your state regulations.
o Is there tax on orders placed through the website?
§ Yes. Our website automatically applies sales tax to orders shipped within Illinois. If your order is shipping outside of Illinois, sales tax will not be applied at checkout. Tax-exempt organizations can email their exemption certificate to sales@clearstreamrecycling.com before placing an order so the exemption can be added to their account.
o Do we provide discounts for Non-Profits?
§ We don’t currently offer specific discounts for non-profit organizations. However, our sales team is happy to review your order details and provide the most cost-effective options available. You can reach us at sales@clearstreamrecycling.com for assistance.
o Why does the website limit what I can purchase?
§ The website only allows you to purchase products that ship via FedEx Ground shipping. In most cases at the larger quantities the order would be better to be shipped freight. Please call or reach us at sales@clearstreamrecycling.com for assistance.
· Account Management
o Can I create an account on your website?
§ Yes. You can create an account by selecting the “Account” icon at the top of our website before beginning checkout.
o Can I change or cancel my order after placing?
§ If your order has not yet shipped, we may be able to make changes or cancel it. Please contact us as soon as possible at sales@clearstreamrecycling.com or call (855) 411-4321 to request a change or cancellation. Once an order has shipped, it can no longer be modified or canceled. For more information on returning your order, please visit our Return Policy.
o Do you offer bulk or Distributor pricing?
§ We do not offer distributor pricing, but we do provide quantity-based discounts on larger orders. Please email sales@clearstreamrecycling.com with your order details, and our sales team will provide a quote with the best available pricing based on your quantities.
· Shipping & Freight
o How long does it take for an order to ship for Stock Items?
§ Most stock items ship within 3–5 business days after the order is received. Shipping times may vary depending on order size and current inventory levels. Once your order ships, you’ll receive a confirmation email with tracking information.
o What is a limited access delivery charge?
§ A limited access delivery charge is an additional fee applied by freight carriers when delivering to locations that are more difficult to access. Examples include schools, parks, construction sites, fairs, and event venues. These locations typically require extra time, equipment, or coordination for delivery. If you’re unsure whether your location qualifies as limited access, our team can help confirm before shipment.
o What is inside delivery?
§ Inside delivery is an optional freight service where the carrier brings your shipment inside the building rather than leaving it at the loading dock or curbside. This service is typically available only for locations with accessible entrances and does not include unpacking or setup. Additional fees apply, and availability depends on the carrier and delivery location.
o What is a detention charge?
§ A detention charge is a fee applied by freight carriers when unloading takes longer than the standard allotted time, typically 30 minutes for standard deliveries. If the driver must wait beyond this period, additional charges may apply. To avoid detention fees, please ensure staff and equipment are ready to receive the shipment at the scheduled delivery time.
o Can I use my own freight or shipping account?
§ Yes. Customers may use their own freight or shipping account for orders. Please include your carrier’s name and account number when placing your order, and our team will coordinate shipment using your preferred carrier. Any freight arrangements made outside of ClearStream are the customer’s responsibility once the order has shipped.
o Do you ship internationally?
§ At this time, ClearStream ships to the United States and Canada only. For orders shipping to Canada, additional customs fees, duties, and tariffs may apply and are the responsibility of the customer. We do not currently ship directly to other international destinations. Orders shipping to Canada must be placed with a rep, please call 855-411-4321 or e-mail sales@cs-rec.com.
· Returns & Exchanges
o What is your return policy?
o Are custom items returnable?
§ Custom-printed products are non-returnable and non-refundable, except in cases of defects, damage, or errors on our part. Customers must notify us within 30 days of delivery for replacement consideration. Please review all artwork, dimensions, and order details carefully before confirming your order to ensure accuracy. For more details, please visit our Return Policy.
o How do I start a return?
§ To start a return, contact our Customer Service team at sales@clearstreamrecycling.com or call (855) 411-4321 with your order number and reason for return. Our team will provide detailed return instructions and the return shipping address. Return shipping costs apply unless the return is due to an error on ClearStream’s part. For full details, please visit our Return Policy.
· Product Information
o What makes ClearStream bins unique?
§ ClearStream bins are designed to make recycling simple, visible, and effective. Our clear, durable bags and lightweight steel frames promote recycling while maintaining security and cleanliness at public events. The transparent design helps prevent contamination, improves sorting accuracy, and allows event staff to easily monitor collection levels. ClearStream systems have been trusted nationwide at stadiums, festivals, schools, and universities for over 25 years.
o Can ClearStream bins be used outdoors?
§ Yes. ClearStream bins are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Their durable steel frames and clear plastic bags hold up well in various weather conditions, and the system can be secured with connectors or weights for added stability. They’ve been used successfully at outdoor events, parks, stadiums, and festivals across the country.
o Are ClearStream products recyclable?
§ ClearStream products are designed to be reusable, not disposable. Our steel frames, lids, and signs are built for long-term use at multiple events and locations. While the recycling bags themselves are recyclable, the main ClearStream components are meant to be reused for years, reducing waste and supporting sustainable collection practices.
· Recycling & Sustainability
o What bag sizes work with ClearStream bins?
§ ClearStream bins are designed to fit one 40-gallon bag. We recommend using official ClearStream bags for the best fit and performance, as they’re sized and tested specifically for our frames.
§ DualStream bins are designed to hold two 25-gallon bags. We recommend using official DualStream bags for the best fit and performance, as they’re sized and tested specifically for our frames.
§ Event Boxes – 18x18x34 are designed to fit one 55-gallon bag. 18x18x30 are made to fit the 40-gallon ClearStream bags.
o Do you offer compost or landfill labeling options?
§ Yes. ClearStream offers a variety of labeling and signage options for compost, landfill, and recycling streams. You can choose from pre-printed decals and signs or request custom artwork to match your specific waste-sorting program. For more information or custom design requests, contact sales@clearstreamrecycling.com.
o How do I start a recycling program for my event or facility?
§ Starting a recycling program is easy with ClearStream. Begin by identifying the types of materials you’ll collect — such as recyclables, compost, and landfill waste — and estimate how many bins you’ll need based on event size or facility traffic. ClearStream offers complete recycling systems, including frames, lids, bags, and signage, to help organize each waste stream. Our team can also provide guidance on setup, labeling, and best practices to ensure your program runs smoothly. For assistance, contact sales@clearstreamrecycling.com.
o What's the difference between clear and Opaque bins, and how effective are they to patrons?
§ Clear bins allow the contents inside to be visible, which helps reduce contamination because people can immediately see what belongs in the bin. They also make it easier for event staff or facility managers to monitor fill levels and sort accuracy without opening the lid. Clear bins are especially effective in high-traffic public spaces, campuses, and events where education and transparency are priorities.
§ Opaque bins hide the contents, creating a cleaner visual appearance and a more traditional “finished” look. They’re often preferred in indoor environments like offices, stadiums, or permanent installations where aesthetics matter and waste is already well-understood by regular users. However, because contents can't be seen, there’s a slightly higher chance of mixing trash and recycling if signage isn’t clear.
o How are diversion rates affected in clear versus Opaque Bins?
§ Clear bins almost always lead to higher diversion rates because patrons can see what’s already inside, which reinforces correct sorting and reduces contamination. When people visually recognize a bin filled with recyclables, they’re less likely to toss trash into it. This transparency also helps staff monitor and correct issues quickly.
§ Opaque bins, while more aesthetically polished, tend to rely entirely on signage and lid design to guide behavior. Without visual reinforcement, contamination rates are usually higher, and diversion rates can drop unless the audience is already well-trained or the environment is controlled (like an office or school with repeat users).
· What Factors can I control to positively influence my recycling program?
o There are several actionable elements you can implement beyond just choosing a bin type to improve recycling performance, boost diversion rates, and reduce contamination.
§ Increased psychological accountability - When people can see what's inside a bin (clear bags or clear bins), they’re more likely to sort correctly. Visibility creates subtle social pressure: no one wants to be the person who throws trash into a clearly labeled recycling stream.
§ Reduced contamination - Contamination drops when you pair proper bin design (restricted openings, color-coded lids, signage) with visible contents. Clear bins or bags allow staff to spot issues early and prevent an entire load from being rejected at the sorting facility.
§ Educational Reinforcement - Sign frames, printed inserts, color systems, and even custom signage with examples of accepted materials help turn passive bins into ongoing training tools. The more times people see clear messaging, the more permanent the habit becomes.
§ Real-World Examples include –
· Festivals switching from opaque bins to clear bins saw their contamination rate drop
· Corporate campuses using consistent signage and color-coding across departments increased diversion without adding additional labor.
· Stadiums using clear bags behind the scenes reported faster sorting and lower hauling fees due to fewer rejected loads.
§ Factors beyond bin type –
· Bin location and density (a recycling bin next to every trash bin)
· Clear, simple labeling (icons + text > text alone)
· Staff or volunteer engagement (education before the event = fewer mistakes)
· Material stream control (single-stream vs dual-stream vs organics)
· Hauler relationships (what they accept dictates what you teach)
· Contact and Support
o How can I contact ClearStream Recycling?
§ You can reach ClearStream Recycling by phone at (855) 411-4321 or by email at sales@clearstreamrecycling.com. Our team is available Monday through Friday during regular business hours to assist with orders, product questions, and customer support inquiries.
o Where is ClearStream Recycling Located?
§ ClearStream Recycling is located in Palos Heights, Illinois. Most of our products are proudly designed, manufactured, and shipped from Illinois. All ClearStream systems are made in the USA and distributed nationwide.