
Routeware
Routeware Inc., a Portland, Oregon-based developer of integrated technology solutions for the waste and recycling industry, marked its 25th anniversary at WasteExpo 2025 in Las Vegas. This milestone reflects the company’s growth, understanding of industry challenges and continuous development of technological advancements.
“For 25 years, Routeware has been at the forefront of waste management technology, evolving from our early days of introducing onboard computing into waste trucks to our current comprehensive suite of solutions that connect every aspect of the waste and recycling ecosystem,” says Routeware CEO Paul Rafalowski. “Our silver anniversary marks not just our longevity as a company but also our team’s consistent ability to inspire what was once a slow-to-adopt-technology industry to reimagine what is possible through thoughtful technology deployment.”
Over the past 25 years, Routeware has grown organically as well as through the development of technological innovations and strategic acquisitions, including the 2024 acquisition of SmartCity (formerly RUBICONSmartCity), which expanded Routeware's municipal offerings with tailored solutions for local governments.
Also in 2024, Routeware launched Elements, a streamlined platform connecting processes across routing, dispatch, in-cab capabilities, customer service and billing.
“What sets Routeware apart is our unique combination of cutting-edge technology and deep industry expertise,” says Routeware Chief Technology Officer Brent Glover. “We’re not just creating software; we’re developing solutions that address the real-world challenges in waste collection operations faced by supervisors, drivers, back-office staff and residents alike. Our 25-year journey has given us unparalleled insights into how technology can truly transform this essential industry.”
The evolution of technology
Founded in 2000, Routeware’s initial focus was on operational efficiency and how to improve how drivers and dispatchers work together. “We thought if we could connect the driver to the person disposing of the waste in a smart way, we could change everything,” Rafalowski explains.
This mindset helped lay the groundwork to build what is now a market leader that serves 65 million residents, equips more than 14,000 trucks and supports more than 1,500 customers across North America and the UK.
Over the years, Routeware has expanded its vision to transform how waste is collected, managed and measured and evolved its platform from simple in-cab hardware to full-scale, cloud-based systems that connect routing, customer service, billing, sustainability reporting and more.
With this transformation, Rafalowski says, the company is now focused on connecting every layer of the waste and recycling ecosystem, from the resident who needs collection services, to the dispatcher and driver optimizing the route, to the back-office employees tracking costs, sustainability metrics and leading customer service efforts.
Routeware today: Mission-driven technology
Routeware’s current impact is substantial, with 1.8 billion notifications sent, 65 million residents served and more than 14,000 trucks utilizing its technology. The company’s mission-driven approach focuses on creating lasting, positive impacts on customer operations, team member well-being and environmental sustainability.
Routeware says its solutions are designed to support hauler and government waste and recycling operations at any stage of growth or development, ensuring its artificial intelligence- (AI-)enabled, cloud-based technology is helpful from day one. With a focus on adaptability, ease-of-use and seamless connectivity, Routeware says its products provide value to customers through two flagship offerings:
Routeware Elements for Haulers: A simple, connected, all-in-one solution for hauler operations that integrates routing, dispatch, customer service and billing into a unified platform.
Routeware Smart City for Governments: A solution that allows governments to easily manage heavy-duty fleets via tailored solutions that improve municipal waste management efficiency and transparency.
Recent innovations reflect the company’s commitment to staying ahead of industry trends, including AI-enabled contamination and extras detection, scale house solutions, advanced sustainability reporting tools and integrated systems that leverage cloud technology and internet of things sensors to improve operational efficiency and gather actionable insights.
The next 25 years
As Routeware prepares for the next 25 years, the company remains focused on its core mission: transforming waste collection to drive a better future for generations to come.
“While we’re proud of our 25-year legacy, we’re even more excited about what lies ahead,” Rafalowski says. “Our mission hasn’t changed, but new opportunities emerge as technology advances. Whether it’s driving sustainability, enhancing safety, increasing our customers’ profitability or empowering them to be leaders in their communities, we remain committed to creating human-first technology that makes a real difference.”
In 2025 and beyond, Routeware will further integrate its technology solutions, providing purpose-built platforms that not only streamline waste and recycling operations but provide visibility into operational metrics and empower customers to drive positive transformations in their businesses and communities.
“Whether it’s a driver, dispatcher or customer service rep, we’re building fast, simple, connected tools that help them do their jobs better—and that’s how we’ll drive lasting transformation,” Rafalowski says.
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