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Your Guide to Roll-Off Dumpster Sizes

Choosing the right dumpster rental for your residential or commercial cleanup may vary based on a few factors such as the scope of work, the type of trash you are getting rid of, and where you will be placing the dumpster. It can be quite difficult to estimate the appropriate dumpster size for your waste management needs if you do not have an idea where to start or things to look for.  This article gives a guide on how to choose roll-off dumpster sizes to give you an idea of what best suits the amount of trash you want to dispose of.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Roll-Off Dumpster Size

  • Scope of Project

It is always important to consider the scale of your project before renting out a dumpster so you do not get the wrong size.

Dumpsters being full with garbage in a city.

Bigger trash removal projects will require a bigger dumpster and vice versa. For instance, you may require a small to medium dumpster if you are renovating a small area in your home. However, extensive renovations and demolition projects may require larger dumpsters that offer more square footage to accommodate the wastes.

  • Type of Debris

It is also important to consider the type of trash materials you will be disposing of. For instance, large construction debris such as support beams and unwanted cabinets may benefit from the amount of space you get from a large dumpster rental. Small dumpsters are more appropriate for waste materials that take up less space. Remember, there is a limit to how full you can fill your dumpster, and the type of wastes you are disposing of should fit perfectly inside the container.

  • Drop-Off and Pick-Up Location

Your roll-off dumpster must be positioned correctly on your property. It is easier to rent a large dumpster if you have a large driveway or a paved surface that can be accessed from the street. If you do not have enough space on your property and choose to place the dumpster outside the compound, you need to confirm with the local authorities where to position it to avoid expensive lawsuits in the future.   

Dimensions and Sizing Guide

Although dumpster sizes are often measured in cubic yards, their exterior dimensions are measured in feet. If you want to determine the volume of a dumpster, you need to multiply its interior dimensions in feet i.e., length by width by height. This will give you the volume of the container in cubic feet. Afterward, you need to convert the measurement to cubic yards by dividing the result by 27. Since there is a weight limit for each dumpster, it is important to discuss with the rental company the type of project you are working on.

For example, filling a dumpster with yard waste and fallen leaves will create far less weight compared to disposing of demolition rubble and construction materials like concrete, bricks, and lumber. Also, keep in mind that some dumpsters have restrictions on what kind of waste you can put in them.

Common Dumpster Sizes and Their Uses

  • 10 Cubic Yard Dumpster

This is one of the best dumpster sizes for small-scale cleanups like basement or attic cleanouts. Other people also use the 10-yard dumpster to get rid of a small pile of heavier debris such as brick and concrete.

  • 15 Cubic Yard Dumpster

Mid-size commercial and residential projects with bulkier debris can benefit from a 15-yard roll-off dumpster. It is great for projects such as a bedroom remodel or a community cleanup.

  • 20 Cubic Yard Dumpster

This dumpster rental size is popular for hauling away a variety of debris making it ideal for home cleanouts and light demolition projects. It comes in handy whether you are disposing of roof shingles or getting rid of yard waste.

  • 30 Cubic Yard Dumpster

A 30-yard dumpster is ideal for largescale commercial or home cleanups. It can accommodate big projects like estate cleanout, full demolition jobs, and home addition.

  • 40 Cubic Yard Dumpster

Most dumpster rental companies offer the 40-yard dumpster as their largest size is ideal for both large-scale and long-term projects and accommodates a wide variety of cleanouts including major home renovations and commercial cleanouts.

The good thing about renting a roll-off dumpster from a reputable rental company is that you do not have to undertake complex calculations by yourself. They can always find the best dumpster sizes for your situation based on your scope of the project, type of debris, and drop-off location. It is important to get estimates from at least three different dumpster rentals to give you a good idea of what to expect.