PaperRoute vs BigChange:
Waste Collection Software Compared
BigChange is a generic field service tool. PaperRoute is purpose-built for waste collection. Here's how they compare.
Why waste companies choose PaperRoute over BigChange
Waste-Specific Features
BigChange is built for generic field service across many industries. It lacks native Waste Transfer Notes, Certificates of Destruction, and EWC code management. PaperRoute includes all of these as standard — purpose-built for UK waste compliance.
Simple Pricing
See our current pricing page for the subscription and setup offer. There are no tiers or feature gates. BigChange uses per-user, feature-tiered pricing where you pay more to unlock additional functionality.
Built for SMBs
PaperRoute is designed for waste and recycling companies with 1–20 drivers. You get a system built around your workflows — not an enterprise tool scaled down. Fast to set up, easy to learn, and supported by a team that understands waste.
Feature-by-feature comparison
A detailed look at what each platform offers for waste collection operations.
| Feature | PaperRoute | BigChange |
|---|---|---|
| Recurring Route ManagementBigChange offers route planning but not waste-specific recurring schedules | Yes | Partial |
| Digital Waste Transfer NotesNot available — BigChange has no native WTN support | Yes | No |
| Certificate of DestructionNot available — requires third-party workarounds | Yes | No |
| Self-Bill Purchase InvoicesNot available in BigChange | Yes | No |
| EWC Code ManagementNo built-in European Waste Catalogue support | Yes | No |
| Sage Cloud + QuickBooks + XeroBigChange offers some accounting integrations but not direct Sage Cloud self-bill invoicing | Yes | Partial |
| Truck-Safe RoutingPaperRoute routes avoid low bridges and weight restrictions | Yes | No |
| Offline-First Mobile AppBigChange app has limited offline capability | Yes | Partial |
| Real-Time GPS TrackingBoth platforms offer GPS driver tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Customer PortalPaperRoute includes a branded customer self-service portal | Yes | No |
| Container ManagementTrack bin and container assets across customer sites | Yes | No |
| Vehicle Safety ChecklistsBigChange offers generic checklists, not waste-vehicle-specific | Yes | Partial |
Compare current offers for your operation
Use current written offers covering the same users, workflows, integrations and support. Include setup responsibilities and the agreement terms in your comparison.
View the current PaperRoute offerWho is each platform best for?
Choose PaperRoute if you are...
- A UK waste or recycling company with 1–20 drivers
- Looking for waste-specific compliance features (WTNs, CoDs, EWC codes)
- Wanting transparent pricing with specialist setup confirmed
- Preparing for your role-specific Digital Waste Tracking phase
- Looking for direct Sage Cloud, QuickBooks, or Xero invoicing with self-bill support
- Wanting a system that works offline in areas with poor signal
BigChange may suit you if you are...
- A larger business with 50+ field workers across multiple industries
- Looking for a generic field service management platform
- Operating in sectors like HVAC, plumbing, or electrical alongside waste
- Needing a platform that covers many different trade types in one system
- Happy with contact-for-quote pricing and per-user licensing
- Not requiring waste-specific compliance features like WTNs or CoDs
How to switch from BigChange to PaperRoute
See the relevant workflows in a free demo. We agree your setup and training plan before you sign the 24-month service agreement.
Share your customer and route data
Export your customer list and route details from BigChange (CSV export). PaperRoute's onboarding team imports everything and configures your waste streams, EWC codes, and pricing. You don't need to re-enter data manually.
Run parallel for two weeks
After agreeing your setup and signing the 24-month service agreement, use guided onboarding to configure your data, train your team and work through your first jobs.
Go live and cancel BigChange
Once your team is comfortable, switch fully to PaperRoute. Cancel your BigChange subscription and start saving on your monthly software costs. PaperRoute support remains available throughout.
PaperRoute vs BigChange FAQ
Is PaperRoute cheaper than BigChange?
Compare current written offers for the users, workflows, setup and support your operation needs. PaperRoute’s pricing page shows the current subscription and offer.
Does BigChange support digital waste transfer notes?
BigChange does not offer PaperRoute's native digital Waste Transfer Notes, Certificates of Destruction or EWC code workflow. PaperRoute includes these in every plan.
Can I switch from BigChange to PaperRoute?
Yes. Start with a free demo to see your relevant workflows and discuss migration. If you choose PaperRoute, agree the setup and sign the 24-month service agreement before onboarding. Setup and team training are included, and ongoing phone and email support is included.
Which is better for small waste companies?
PaperRoute is purpose-built for UK waste and recycling SMBs with 1–20 drivers. Every feature is included in every plan — there are no feature gates or per-module charges. BigChange is designed for larger enterprises across multiple industries, which means more complexity and cost than most small waste companies need.
See how it fits your operation
Your business. Your questions. Your PaperRoute demo.
A focused 30-minute video call with our team. We’ll show you the relevant parts of PaperRoute and explain what making the move would involve.
- Walk through the workflows that matter to you
- Understand setup, training and the subscription
- Leave with a clear view of your next steps
Free, with no obligation. You only commit to the 24-month agreement if you choose to go ahead after the demo.
Or call 03333 707007.