How Big Of A Dumpster Do I Need?

There are many different roll-off dumpsters sizes available for both commercial and residential use. Smaller, 10-yard dumpsters are just 14-feet long, while 40-yard dumpsters come in at an average of 22-feet long. Let’s take a look at the common sizes of roll-off dumpsters and just how big of a dumpster you may need for your upcoming project.

What Size Dumpster Do I Need?

Roll-off containers or roll-off dumpsters are containers made out of metal and used to throw away large amounts of material. These dumpsters are typically used by remodelers, construction contractors, and demolition crews. After delivery of your roll-off container, you fill the dumpster and the supplier will haul it away.

Most roll-off dumpster rental companies will offer a generous weight limit for all container sizes. This will allow you to use the dumpsters for various projects like home cleanouts and large remodeling jobs. Here is a look at the common sizes of roll-off dumpsters you’ll find from most providers across the country.

10-Yard Roll-Off Dumpsters

The usual measurements for these dumpsters are 14 feet long, 7.5 feet wide, and 3.5 feet high. Exterior dimensions can vary based on the manufacturer, but total volume always remains the same. The dumpsters cab hold up to 10 cubic yards of debris in volume. This is equivalent to 50-70 contractor style 33-gallon trash bags.

The 10-yard dumpster can hold about 2-3 tons, which equals between 4,000-6,000 pounds. For reference, a typical kitchen sink will weigh between 50-100 pounds.

15-Yard Roll-Off Dumpsters

Standard 15-yard dumpsters are 16 feet long, 7.5 feet wide, and 4.5 feet in height. Volume will always remain the same, but exterior dimensions could vary due to manufacturer. This size dumpster generally holds up to 15 cubic yards of waste, which is equal to nearly 100 33-gallon trash bags. 15-yards is considered a medium sized dumpster that will fit comfortably in a driveway.

Most rental companies include a covered weight limit of 2-3 tons. This is equivalent to 4,000-6,000 pounds. Be mindful of how quickly the weight of your disposal can add up. For instance, the average toilet weighs about 100 pounds.

20-Yard Roll-Off Dumpsters

A typical 20-yard dumpster measures 22 feet long, 7.5 feet wide, and 4.5 feet high. While exterior dimensions will vary by manufacturer, the total volume will remain the same. These containers can hold up to 20 cubic yards of material. This is the equivalent of 110-130 33-gallon trash bags or a total of six pickup truck loads.

20-yard dumpsters usually hold between 2-3 tons of waste, which equals 4,000-6,000 pounds of material. Special-use containers for debris, such as concrete or dirt, have higher weight limits.

40-Yard Roll-Off Dumpsters

The typical 40-yard dumpster measures 22 feet long, 8 feet high, and 7.5 feet wide. Exterior dimensions can change based on manufacturer, yet the overall volume remains the same. These dumpsters can hold up to 40 cubic yards of waste in volume, which is equivalent to that of 250 33-gallon trash bags.

A 40-yard dumpster can hold 10,000-12,000 pounds or 5-6 tons overall. The exact weight limit will depend on the type of container you rented and the specific debris. Disposal costs for specified tonnage is generally included in your rental rate.

Factors To Determine Proper Dumpster Size

Picking the appropriate sized dumpster is necessary to keep your project on track and on budget. A dumpster that is too large can put you over budget, while a dumpster that is too small can result in some additional charges. Here are a few factors that can help you pick the right size dumpster.

Debris Type

Different projects ultimately create different types of waste/debris. Different waste types call for varying dumpster sizes. Whether it is household items or construction debris, always make sure your dumpster rental is right for your project.

Total Volume

Dumpsters are sized by yards. One cubic yard is equal to almost 6 13-gallon trash bags.

Delivery Location

While rental companies will deliver to tight areas, sometimes this means you’ll need to downsize the dumpster.

What Size Dumpster Is Best For Your Project?

Roll off dumpsters can be used for the disposal of numerous items and projects. Let’s look at the recommended dumpster sizes based on the following tasks:

• Heavy debris: 10-yard dumpster.
• Roofing: 10 or 20-yard dumpster.
• Landscaping: 10 or 20-yard dumpster.
• Household cleanouts: 15 or 20-yard dumpster.
• Remodeling: 30-yard dumpster.
• Construction debris: 30 or 40-yard dumpster.

How To Stay Within The Dumpster Size Limits

Staying within the weight limit starts by requesting the right sized dumpster. Blue Steel Dumpsters will work with you to determine exactly what size you’ll need for your project. It’s recommended to walk the heaviest items through the bin’s swinging door and fill the dumpster evenly. The team at Blue Steel Dumpsters in Phoenix, AZ can guide you through each step of the process!