MECO Medium Duty Self Dumping Hoppers

MECO medium duty self-dumping hoppers are forklift-mounted dump hoppers for everyday scrap and waste. Each is rated for 2,000 lb and comes in eight sizes from 1/4 to 2-1/2 cubic yards. The hopper body pivots on a frame that stays on the forks, and a latch holds it upright. The operator releases the latch from the seat, the body tips forward under the weight of the contents, and it relatches automatically when empty. One operator can collect material at the source and empty it into a dumpster or compactor without manual lifting.

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Model Number	Cubic Volume	Size	Capacity	Model Number	View Model
SDHM025	1/4 yards	29” wide x 49-1/2” long x 26” high	2,000 pounds	$851.78	View Model
SDHM033	1/3 yards	29” wide x 53” long x 30-1/2” high	2,000 pounds	$897.69	View Model
SDHM050	1/2 yards	41” wide x 53” long x 30-1/2” high	2,000 pounds	$1,030.30	View Model
SDHM075	3/4 yards	41” wide x 59-1/2” long x 34-1/2” high	2,000 pounds	$1,193.52	View Model
SDHM100	1 yards	41” wide x 63-1/2” long x 38-1/2” high	2,000 pounds	$1,244.52	View Model
SDHM150	1-1/2 yards	59” wide x 63-1/2” long x 38-1/2” high	2,000 pounds	$1,443.44	View Model
SDHM200	2 yards	59” wide x 69-1/2” long x 44” high	2,000 pounds	$1,611.76	View Model
SDHM250	2-1/2 yards	72” wide x 69-1/2” long x 44” high	2,000 pounds	$1,805.58	View Model

Every hopper has two ratings, weight and volume, and the one you reach first decides whether medium duty is enough. Full-hopper weight equals cubic yards times the material’s density in pounds per cubic yard. Light material such as flattened cardboard at 100 lb per cubic yard, uncompacted mixed waste at 250 to 300, or loose plastic fills the volume first. Dense material is different. A 2-1/2 cubic yard hopper full of metal scrap at 906 lb per cubic yard would hold 2,265 lb, which is over the 2,000 lb rating, and stone or gravel at 2,632 lb per cubic yard reaches the limit at under one cubic yard. Move up to the heavy duty line when your material is dense.

The forklift matters as much as the hopper. A hopper’s weight sits farther forward than a pallet’s, so check the hopper’s own weight plus the contents against the truck’s capacity at the actual load center, not the data plate figure. Under OSHA 1910.178, tilting forward with the load elevated is prohibited except to pick up a load or deposit it over a rack or stack, and an unattended truck must have its load engaging means fully lowered. Dump with the hopper positioned over the receptacle, and use the retaining chain every time.

Selecting the Right Hopper
◆ Choose by material density first, using full-hopper weight equals cubic yards times pounds per cubic yard
◆ Choose medium duty for light and moderate material, and heavy duty for dense material like castings and wet scrap
◆ Choose a size your forklift can lift at the hopper’s actual load center
◆ Confirm the fork pocket dimensions match your forks
◆ Choose a size that fits the space where you will dump, including the receptacle height
◆ Weigh a sample of known volume if your material is unusual

To work through density math, ratings, and duty tiers in more detail, read our hoppers and tilt trucks buying guide.

Where Commonly Used
MECO medium duty hoppers are commonly used in warehouses, light manufacturing, retail backrooms, and facility maintenance for collecting everyday scrap and waste and carrying it by forklift to dumpsters and compactors.

CustomMHS carries MECO self-dumping hoppers. All purchases include the manufacturer’s factory warranty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are MECO medium-duty self-dumping hoppers used for?

MECO medium-duty self-dumping hoppers are designed for collecting and dumping everyday scrap, waste, and bulk materials using a forklift. They provide an efficient solution for routine cleanup and debris handling in industrial environments. These hoppers help improve housekeeping without the need for extreme heavy-duty equipment.

What makes a medium-duty hopper a good choice for daily operations?

Medium-duty hoppers are built for regular industrial use while offering a cost-effective option for lighter scrap loads. They provide durable steel construction for consistent performance in typical warehouse and manufacturing applications. This makes them ideal for facilities handling standard production waste and non-dense debris.

How does a forklift self-dumping hopper operate?

The hopper is lifted by forklift and automatically dumps when the release mechanism is activated. After unloading, it returns to the locked position when lowered back to the floor. This allows one operator to dispose of materials safely without manual dumping.

What types of materials are best suited for medium-duty dump hoppers?

These hoppers are commonly used for packaging waste, plastic scrap, light metal debris, wood scraps, and general industrial byproducts. They are designed for facilities that generate frequent but moderate scrap volumes. Medium-duty models provide reliable handling for everyday cleanup needs.

How do medium-duty hoppers improve workplace efficiency?

Self-dumping hoppers reduce labor by allowing scrap to be collected and dumped in fewer steps. They speed up cleanup tasks and help maintain organized, safer work areas. Efficient waste handling supports smoother daily operations and less downtime.

Where are MECO medium-duty self-dumping hoppers most commonly used?

These hoppers are widely used in warehouses, light manufacturing plants, distribution centers, packaging operations, and maintenance departments. They are ideal anywhere routine scrap and waste must be handled efficiently. Any facility needing dependable everyday forklift dumping capability can benefit from medium-duty hoppers.

Is the manufacturer’s warranty included with my purchase?

Yes. All products sold on CustomMHS.com include the original manufacturer’s warranty unless otherwise noted. Custom MHS is an authorized dealer for the brands we carry, which means your purchase is covered by the manufacturer's full factory warranty.

Do you ship nationwide?

Yes. We ship throughout the United States and Canada using trusted freight partners experienced in handling industrial equipment. Our team coordinates shipping details to ensure safe and efficient delivery.