Looking to perform a room cleanout, a small renovation, or large remodeling project? Renting a dumpster can help you save time and money. It keeps your trips to the dump to a minimum and all the trash in one spot.
Now it’s time to ask yourself, what size dumpster do I need? Find out how to figure out the right size for your project and learn tips for renting a dumpster.
1. Project Size
Deciding on the scope of your project will help kick off the search for the right-sized dumpster. For example, are you performing a home cleanout? If so, how many rooms are you looking to clear the junk out of? Or are you remodeling? These projects could be as simple as new flooring or as involved as knocking down walls or building new rooms. Dumpsters are also handy for roofing and landscaping projects.
2. Type of Debris
After you’ve defined the scope and size of your project, distinguish what type of debris will come from it. While most rental dumpster companies accept most kinds of waste, there are some prohibited items. For example, any flammable, toxic, hazardous, or corrosive debris is not allowed with rentals through redbox+ Dumpsters. Some companies also have specific dumpsters for landscape and construction waste because those items need to go to different dumps.
3. Amount of Waste Produced
Now, this one might seem obvious to consider when determining “what size dumpster do I need.” It’s time to consult with a dumpster rental company. They have experts who can help you determine how much waste your project might produce and recommend the size of dumpster you need. It’s also a good idea to shop around during this time. Ask multiple rental companies the same questions and see what they give you. You can see which ones are overselling you and which are a bit more accurate.
4. Space Available for Dumpster
This tip is an easy one to forget. When talking with dumpster rental companies, make sure to ask for the dimensions of their dumpsters. A typical dumpster rental is usually for one week. So, think about where you can sit this larger bin on your driveway for a whole week. If you’re placing a dumpster in the street, check with your local city government to see if you need a permit. Also, note that homeowner’s associations sometimes limit dumpster rentals and specify where you can put them and for how long.
Dumpster Bin Sizes
Now that you have an idea of the scope of your project, the amount and type of debris it will produce, and the space you have available for a dumpster, here are typical dumpster sizes. This chart can help you decipher what size will work for you.
| Size | Dimensions,
According to |
Approx. Truckload Equivalency | Weight,
According to |
Type Of Project |
| 10-Yard Dumpster | 10.5’L x 8’ W x 4.5’ H | 3 pickup truck loads | 1-3 Tons | Small renovations, 1-2 room cleanout, personal landscaping like brush removal or yard cleanup, bathroom renovation |
| 20-Yard Dumpster | 23′ L x 8′ W x 4′ H | 6 pickup truck loads | 2-4 Tons | Roofing, small construction, big landscaping project, flooring removal, kitchen or bathroom renovation, residential or office junk removal |
| 30-Yard Dumpster | 23 ’L x 8’ W x 5’ H | 9 pickup truck loads | 3-5 Tons | Full house cleanouts, major remodeling jobs, large yard landscaping projects, flipping a house |
| 40-Yard Dumpster | 23’L x 8’ W x 5’ H | 12 pickup truck loads | 5-6 Tons | Large house cleanouts, large remodeling projects, large roofing jobs, estate cleanouts, larger demolition project |
NOTE: Dimensions are estimates and actual measurements vary. Click here for more information about our dumpster capacity & sizing.
What if I Overload My Dumpster?
When setting up your bin rental, ask about the consequences of overfilling your dumpster. Overfilling could be by physically overflowing it with debris or exceeding the weight limit. Some companies will work with you during your project if this happens. For example, at redbox+ Dumpsters, we will come to pick up your roll-off dumpster, empty it, and return it to the project site within 24 hours, but normally turnaround time can be as short as a few hours.
Rent With redbox+ Dumpsters
If you’re ready to get moving on your next home project, start by contacting your local redbox+ Dumpsters. Our experts are prepared to help determine what dumpster size you’ll need for your project. While many companies will overestimate, we’re here to give you an accurate prediction of what you’ll need so you don’t overspend. Call us today.