In space-constrained environments like ships, restaurants, compact commercial facilities, and urban buildings, Komar Vertical Compactors cut disposal frequency, and maintain sanitation—critical where storage is limited and removal is infrequent.
Ideal for space-constrained indoor environments where security and sanitation are priorities
is ideal for light-duty use in tight spaces
suits medium-volume applications with moderate space constraints
handles heavy loads in high-demand space-constrained settings
Best for high-volume waste operations with outdoor space to keep refuse and odors outside
perfect for limited clearance and space-sensitive areas
offers a low-profile for
confined areas
designed for elevated loading for dock or platform integration
| Indoor Vertical Compactors |
TA3000SS
|
TA4500SS
|
TA7000SS
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Height (in.) | 71.25 | 77.75 | 80.25 |
| Width (in.) | 22.25 | 28.25 | 40.25 |
| Depth (in.) | 22.25 | 28 | 28 |
| Service Weight (lbs.) | 700 | 900 | 1200 |
| Loading Chute Door Opening (in.) | 15.25 × 18 | 19 × 24 | 20.5×36 |
| Compaction Chamber Size (in.) | 37.5 × 18.75 × 18.25 | 40.5 × 24 × 24 | 71.75 × 36 × 24 |
| Capacity (cu. ft.) | 3.3 | 6 | 9 |
| Compaction Ratio | Up to 20:1 | Up to 20:1 | Up to 20:1 |
| Cycle Time (sec.) | 11 to 15 | 18 to 22 | 20 to 25 |
| Motor Size (hp) | 0.5 | 0.5 | 1 |
| Electrical Requirements | 120 or 240 volts 9/4.5 amps | 120 or 240 volts 9/4.5 amps | 120 or 240 volts 14/7 amps |
| Maximum Compaction Force (lbs.) | 8,640 | 13,500 | 24,000 |
| Working Space (in.) | 46 × 22 | 54 × 30 | 66 × 42 |
| Outdoor Vertical Compactors |  VCP-4 |  VCP-6 |  VCP-8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compactor Height | 92″ | 101″ | 123.25″ |
| Height to Top of light | 97″ | 106″ | 128″ |
| Compactor Head Width | 101″ | 101″ | 101″ |
| Compactor Depth | 85.5″ | 85.5″ | 85.5″ |
| Overall Compactor Width | 96.5″ | 96.5″ | 96.5″ |
| Load Height | 45.25″ | 58.25″ | 76.5″ |
| Charge Box Capacity | .73 cu-yd [.6 cu-m] | .73 cu-yd [.6 cu-m] | .73 cu-yd [.6 cu-m] |
| Feed Opening | 26″x48″ [66 cm x 122 cm] | 26″x48″ [66 cm x 122 cm] | 26″x48″ [66 cm x 122 cm] |
| Processing Capacity Per Hour | 120 cy/hr | 120 cy/hr | 120 cy/hr |
| Average Cycle Time | 30s | 30s | 30s |
| Total Normal Force | 26,389 lbs [117,384 N] | 26,389 lbs [117,384 N] | 26,389 lbs [117,384 N] |
| Total Maximum Force | 30,159 lbs [134,154 N] | 30,159 lbs [134,154 N] | 30,159 lbs [134,154 N] |
| Normal Ram Pressure | 15 psi [103 Kpa] | 15 psi [103 Kpa] | 15 psi [103 Kpa] |
| Maximum Ram Pressure | 17 psi [117 Kpa] | 17 psi [117 Kpa] | 17 psi [117 Kpa] |
| Electric | 208/230/460 – 3 phase | 208/230/460 – 3 phase | 208/230/460 – 3 phase |
| Control Voltage | 120 VAC | 120 VAC | 120 VAC |
| Motor | 3 HP | 3 HP | 3 HP |
| Pump | 3.2 gpm [12.1 L/m] | 3.2 gpm [12.1 L/m] | 3.2 gpm [12.1 L/m] |
| Normal Pressure | 2,100 psi [13,790 Kpa] | 2,100 psi [13,790 Kpa] | 2,100 psi [13,790 Kpa] |
| Maximum Pressure | 2,400 psi [15,858 Kpa] | 2,400 psi [15,858 Kpa] | 2,400 psi [15,858 Kpa] |
| Cylinder Bore | 4″ [10.2 cm] | 4″ [10.2 cm] | 4″ [10.2 cm] |
| Cylinder Rod | 2″ [5 cm] | 2″ [5 cm] | 2″ [5 cm] |
| Weight | 5,000 lbs [2,268 Kg] | 5,000 lbs [2,268 Kg] | 5,000 lbs [2,268 Kg] |
Designed for loading waste from the front, this compactor is ideal for space-restricted areas, offering easy access and efficient compaction.
Rear-feed vertical compactors support disciplined waste management by separating loading and service areas, offering a practical solution for dock or alley installations that require safe and organized material flow.
Side-feed vertical compactors offer adaptable access through a lateral loading door, enabling thoughtful placement in confined spaces while maintaining effective and reliable compaction performance.
Our solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of a wide range of industries, including:
Both systems have the same purpose—compressing dry waste to reduce volume—but serve different needs. Vertical compactors load from the top and operate vertically in a smaller footprint that works well in tight spaces, such as retail stockrooms and restaurants.
Standard compactors operate horizontally, compressing materials into large roll-off containers with more capacity. They require more space, which is why they’re typically used in industrial or high-output facilities.
Vertical compactors are intended for cardboard, plastics, paper, textiles, food packaging, and other dry, non-hazardous wastes. Wet materials and medical waste should not be placed in vertical compactors.
Consider your usable floor space and vertical clearance, power needs, and application when making a selection. Some models are designed to fit in smaller areas with low ceilings, while others can be integrated with loading decks. Compact models, such as the Komar Chicago Trashpacker, are small enough for shipboard installation or tight indoor spaces.
Outdoor models, such as the VC4, VC6 and VC8, can process up to 120 cubic yards per hour, making them ideal for high-volume operations. Trashpacker models are made for lower volumes and and frequent indoor use.
VC models need 9–10.5 feet of ceiling clearance and more floor space for access and operation. Trashpackers, by comparison, can operate with ceilings as low as 6.5 feet and require much less space.
Simple controls, built-in safety features, emergency stops, and secure access make operation straightforward. Training is recommended for all operators to ensure safe, effective use.
VC models compress materials into internal containers that are removed and emptied by waste haulers when full.
Trashpacker models use a reusable trash cube system that’s ejected whe full. Bags or liners that provide added containment and sanitation are available for select models.
Compactors and trashpackers should be cleaned daily, inspected monthly, and professionally serviced at least once per year to ensure reliable operation—especially for hydraulic systems.
Yes. Trashpacker models are well-suited for tight quarters and offshore platform. VC models, like the VC4 and VC6, can be installed on larger ships with sufficient space and clearance.
Absolutely. We offer options like chute integration, odor control systems, stainless steel enclosures, and marine-specific modifications depending on your needs.
We are a waste solutions company. With a wide array of application-specific models and advanced engineering capabilities, we look forward to guiding you to the best solution for the job.
Schedule a free waste stream evaluation to identify the right equipment and processes for your space, waste types, and volume.
When it comes to managing waste efficiently, choosing the right type of trash compactor is essential. Whether you’re operating in a retail store, restaurant, manufacturing facility, or marine environment, the decision between an Indoor vertical compactor and an outdoor vertical compactor can impact everything from workflow and cleanliness to cost savings and compliance.
Let’s break down the key differences and considerations—using the Komar Chicago Trashpackers (indoor) and the Komar VC units (outdoor) as leading examples in their respective categories.
Why Choose an Indoor Vertical Compactor Like the Chicago Trashpacker?
Indoor vertical compactors are designed to operate inside your facility, making them ideal for businesses with limited space or strict cleanliness standards. The Chicago Trashpacker stands out as a compact, stainless-steel unit that fits seamlessly into tight indoor environments, including commercial kitchens, cruise ships, offshore rigs, and retail backrooms.
Here are a few reasons to choose an indoor vertical compactor:
Why Choose an Outdoor Vertical Compactor Like the Komar VC6?
Outdoor vertical compactors are heavy-duty systems built for high-volume waste management. The Komar VC6 is a robust unit commonly found behind convenience stores, pharmacies, and restaurants where limited space is available.
Key advantages of an outdoor vertical compactor include:
Final Thoughts: Which Compactor is Best for You?
The choice between an indoor and outdoor vertical compactor comes down to your environment, space limitations, and operational needs.
If you’re dealing with tight quarters, strict sanitation requirements, or marine/offshore applications, the Chicago Trashpacker offers unmatched convenience and durability in an indoor setting. On the other hand, if your facility can accommodate outdoor waste management and you generate larger volumes of trash, a Komar VC unit may be the more efficient choice.
One-Sentence Summary:
Choose the Chicago Trashpacker for compact, clean, and convenient indoor waste management, and Komar VCs for rugged, high-capacity outdoor compaction built to handle larger volumes with ease.
