Waste transfer notes explained
What a waste transfer note records, how long to keep it, and what replaces it as DWTS goes live.
The waste transfer note (WTN) is the document that has underpinned waste duty of care for decades. From 2026 it goes digital via DWTS — but understanding the WTN explains what DWTS is really capturing.
What a WTN records
- A description of the waste and its quantity.
- Who transferred it and who received it.
- The date and place of transfer.
- The relevant waste codes and how it’s contained.
How long to keep it
Standard waste transfer notes must be kept for at least two years (longer for hazardous consignment notes). Losing them is a duty-of-care failure.
What replaces it
From October 2026 the paper WTN is replaced by the Digital Waste Tracking Service for receiving sites. The information is similar; the record becomes digital, national and mandatory.
Frequently asked questions
What is a waste transfer note?
A duty-of-care record describing waste being transferred, who moved it, where and when, plus the relevant waste codes.
How long must I keep waste transfer notes?
At least two years for standard notes; longer for hazardous waste consignment notes.
What replaces the waste transfer note?
The Digital Waste Tracking Service replaces the paper WTN from October 2026 for waste-receiving sites.
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