Abstract: A refuse collection system that includes a refuse container handling system stowed below a refuse storage hopper, all mounted on a vehicle. The refuse handling system includes a lift arm to raise and lower a single articulated arm and an extension arm to extend the lift arm from its stowed position to near a refuse container. The outer end of the extension arm includes a releasable clamp for engaging and clamping the container during lift and releasing the container when the arm returns it to the ground.