Abstract: An apparatus and electronic system for optimizing a trash pick-up schedule of a plurality of trash compactors is disclosed. The system comprises the steps of measuring the weight of trash in a trash compactor; calculating from said trash weight a targeted trash weight optimal for pick up; predicting a pick-up time based on said trash weight and said optimal trash weight; transmitting a signal to a fleet management unit; calculating a pick-up schedule for said plurality of trash compactors; generating a bill containing accounting information for said trash compactor unit; and generating a warning when said trash compactor unit malfunctions. The system permits efficient trash pick-up based on customer needs and accordingly provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly system.