Abstract: A method and apparatus for embossing the sidewalls of heavy gauge sheet metal containers involves clamping over a top edge of an opening into the container using a press carrying complementary embossing dies. The clamping apparatus can be a portable punch press having opposite members on a solid C-shaped frame, one being movable by a hydraulic drive cylinder to bear against the other. The die set coupled to the clamping apparatus has opposite protrusions and depressions representing an indicia to be embossed on the container, such as a trademark, symbol, owner's name or other indicia. In one embodiment the container is a dumping refuse container with an opening edge reinforced by a frame. The press has an opening throat that spaces the dies sufficiently that the clamping apparatus can be clamped over the reinforced edge to space the point of deformation of the sheet metal from the edge of the opening.