How to Determine Roll–off Dumpster Weight Limits
Different companies will have different weight limits for their roll-off dumpsters. Limits are often based on what weight the truck that picks up the dumpster can safely haul. It’s very important to follow the weight limit set by your dumpster provider. Debris will have different weights. For example, concrete or dirt will weigh much more than the same volume of household waste. When selecting a dumpster, consider what it is you will be disposing of in it.
How Much Weight Can You Fit in Your Dumpster?
| 10 yard dumpster weight limit: Average 1-3 tons | |
|---|---|
| Example Debris | Amount |
| Roofing/shingles | 1,600 – 2,400 sq ft |
| Concrete/asphalt | 65-90 sq ft 10 inches thick |
| Drywall | 1,600 – 2,250 sq ft ½ inch to ⅝ inch thick |
| Carpeting | 2,500 – 3,500 sq ft |
| Yard waste | 5 – 10 cu yards |
| Household waste (clothes, furniture, trash, etc) | 270 – 405 sq ft |
| 20 yard dumpster weight limit: Average 2-4 tons | |
|---|---|
| Example Debris | Amount |
| Roofing/shingles | 2,000 – 2,800 sq ft |
| Concrete/asphalt | 80-110 sq ft 10 inches thick |
| Drywall | 1,950 – 2,650 sq ft ½ inch to ⅝ inch thick |
| Carpeting | 3,000 – 4,200 sq ft |
| Yard waste | 6 – 12 cu yards |
| Household waste (clothes, furniture, trash, etc) | 335 – 475 sq ft |
| 30 yard dumpster weight limit: Average 3-5 tons | |
|---|---|
| Example Debris | Amount |
| Roofing/shingles | 2,800 – 4,000 sq ft |
| Concrete/asphalt | 110 – 155 sq ft 10 inches thick |
| Drywall | 2,650 – 3,840 sq ft ½ inch to ⅝ inch thick |
| Carpeting | 4,200 – 6,000 sq ft |
| Yard waste | 8 – 15 cu yards |
| Household waste (clothes, furniture, trash, etc) | 475 – 680 sq ft |
How and Why are Dumpsters Weighed?
When the dumpster goes into the landfill the truck and dumpster are weighed on a scale. Once the dumpster is emptied, the truck and dumpster are weighed again. The difference in the weights is calculated to determine the weight of the debris. If the weight of your debris is more than the weight limit the company gave you for the dumpster, you may be required to pay an overage fee.
| Materials | Weight per Cubic Yard | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Burned Debris/Ash | 800-1,000 lbs 1,500-1,800 lbs 2,300 lbs |
Loose vs dry |
| Concrete Asphalt |
4,050 lbs 3,960 lbs |
|
| Wood, Un-Compacted | 400 lbs | Increase up to 100% if compacted |
| Metals, Un-Compacted | 600 lbs | Ex. Appliances, metal siding |
| Earth | 2,100 lbs 3,000 lbs |
Loose/dry Excavated/wet |
| Gravel or Crushed Stone | 2,600 lbs | Increase roughly 20% if wet |
| Standard Red Clay Bricks | 3,400 lbs | |
| Asphalt Shingles Slate Shingles |
2,500 lbs 9,500 lbs |
1,000 sq ft (10 square, 30 bundles) |
| General Household Junk | 300-350 lbs 400-800 lbs |
Un-Compacted Compacted |
| Yard Waste | 670 lbs 400 lbs 500 lbs 1,500 lbs 1,350 lbs |
Glass clippings Leaves Brush Unfinished compost Finished compost |
| Drywall | 340 lbs 420 lbs |
1/2-inch thick drywall 5/8-inch thick drywall |
| Households Waste | 400 – 800 lbs | Compacted |
What if I damage public property?
Check your dumpster rental contract to see what is and is not covered by the insurance of the dumpster rental company. If the damage is not covered by their insurance, you may be required to pay for those repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a short ton?
“Tons” can be measured using two different systems. The Imperial system measures a ton as 2,240 lbs. The Metric system measures a ton as 2,000 lbs. An Imperial ton is sometimes referred to as a “long ton,” while the Metric system may be referred to as a “short ton.”
How much do the dumpsters weigh empty?
It depends on the size of the dumpster, but empty dumpsters can weigh from 1,700 to 6,500 lbs. The weight of the dumpster does not factor into the weight limit you are allowed.
What happens if you go over the weight limit?
If the weight of the debris goes over the weight limit, you will likely be charged an overage fee. The fee may range from $25 – $100 per ton.
Conclusion
Just as the dumpsters vary in size, so do the weight limits allowed in the dumpster. Limits are based on how much the truck that picks up the dumpster can safely haul. It’s important to follow the weight limit set by your dumpster provider. Debris will have different weights. We are happy to help you decide what size dumpster would be appropriate for the debris you need to dispose of in it.