What is a waste transfer note and do I need one?

If you run a business, a waste transfer note is one of those small pieces of paperwork that matters more than it looks. It's the evidence that you've met your legal duty of care for your waste — so yes, you need one.

What a waste transfer note is

A waste transfer note (WTN) is a record created every time your waste is transferred from your business to someone else — normally your waste carrier. It proves the waste was handed to an authorised person and describes what it was. For regular collections, a single note can cover repeated transfers over a period.

What it must contain

• A description of the waste and how much there is.
• The details of both parties — your business and the carrier.
• Confirmation the carrier is licensed to take the waste.
• Where and when the transfer took place.

How long to keep it

You must keep your waste transfer notes for at least two years. For hazardous waste — including most clinical waste — the equivalent record is a consignment note, which must be kept for at least three years. Keeping these is part of your duty of care; see our guide on waste duty of care.

Who provides it

The good news: a reputable waste provider produces the note for you as part of the service. Your responsibility is to make sure you receive it, that it's accurate, and that you keep it. If your current arrangement doesn't give you clear documentation, that's a red flag worth reviewing.

A waste transfer note is simple but essential: it's your proof that you handled your waste lawfully. Use a licensed carrier, check the note is right, keep it for the required period, and your duty of care is covered.