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. The die set can form raised characters, a bas relief or another shape, the disclosed example being an externally raised logo, e.g., about 0.125 inch high and formed over an area of about four by seven inches using a 50
ton press.