Renting a dumpster is easy, but it can be intimidating for the first-time renter.
\n\nYou can schedule delivery in a matter of minutes, but in order to get the most out of your dumpster experience without overpaying, you’ll want to be aware of a few things first.
\n\n\nNot only are there thousands of companies out there to choose from, but there are multiple dumpster sizes, rental periods, and disposal fees to consider, too.
\n\nOur dumpster guide will cover everything you need to know to ensure your rental goes smoothly.
\n\nJump to:
\n\n\n\n\nDumpsters are great options for a variety of waste removal jobs, and there are multiple types of dumpsters designed to accommodate customers' various needs.
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Roll-off dumpsters are the type of dumpster that homeowners and contractors can rent on a temporary basis, and they're pretty simple beasts.
\n\nThey have swinging doors on one side to allow you to walk heavy or bulky items into the dumpster, and feet or rollers on the bottom that are placed on wooden planks to protect your driveway or street from being damaged.
\n\nThese dumpsters are delivered to your home or job site, rolled off a truck, and placed on your property in the location you request.
\n\nThe truck that delivers and picks up the dumpster uses a large hook and pulley system, as demonstrated below.
\n\nWhen you're done using the dumpster, you call the rental company and have them come pick it up using the same hook and pulley system.
\n\n\n\nDumpsters truly are the underrated superhero of waste disposal.
\n\n\n\n\nThere are a million and one reasons to rent a roll-off dumpster, and many people don’t realize exactly how useful they can be.
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Common Uses for Temporary Dumpsters
\n\nCommercial dumpsters are the permanent dumpsters that businesses use.
\n\nThese dumpsters aren't rented on a temporary basis, like roll-off dumpsters.
\n\nInstead, they are emptied on a regular schedule for an extended period of time as a way of managing that company's waste stream, just like your curbside trash.
\n\nThese containers typically hold 2 cubic yards to 8 cubic yards of trash and are smaller than most temporary roll-off dumpsters.
\n\nThese trash containers have a lid to prevent the public from tossing their trash in, to keep out rain and snow, to control odors, and to deter pests.
\n\nConstruction dumpsters are another name given to temporary roll-off dumpsters.
\n\nHowever, these dumpsters can be used for more than just construction debris removal.
\n\nConstruction dumpster rental is the ideal solution for any large cleanup job, like cleaning out a home, garage, or attic.
\n\nThey're also perfect for handling debris from a home remodeling project or removing large amounts of yard waste.
\n\nTypically holding 10 cubic yards to 40 cubic yards of debris, these are larger, open-top trash containers rented on a temporary basis.
\n\nDumpsters come in a wide range of sizes measured in cubic yards, indicating the volume of debris the container can hold.
\n\nAbove are some of the most commonly used dumpster sizes (and their dimensions), one of which will be better for your project than the rest.
\n\n\n\n\nTrying to squeeze all your junk into a dumpster that's too small can be costly, leading to overage fees or the need for additional dumpsters. It's always better to overestimate the amount of stuff you want to get rid of rather than underestimate it.
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We understand that it can be difficult to estimate how much construction debris or household junk you will have.
\n\nHarder yet is trying to predict exactly how much stuff you'll want to get rid of once a big, convenient dumpster is sitting in your driveway.
\n\nIt's tempting to pinch pennies by going with the smallest container size, but more often than not, that leads to trouble.
\n\n10 Yard Containers
\n\n15-20 Yard Containers
\n\n30-40 Yard Containers
\n\nNot surprisingly, the price of dumpster rental goes up with size, but there are a number of other factors that affect price.
\n\nAs mentioned previously, skimping on size is not the way to go.
\n\nIt costs more to have two 10 yard dumpsters delivered to your property than one 20 yard bin, so it's always better to go up a size when in doubt.
\n\nDepending on where you're located, you may be able to save some money by sending some of the debris to a recycling facility, where disposal fees are much less expensive.
\n\nIf you plan on putting shingles, concrete, or construction debris (like wood or drywall) in your dumpster, you may be able to 'clean load' it by only filling it with that material.
\n\nFrom there, it can be taken directly to a local recycling facility, where disposal fees are low and you save money.
\n\nA majority of rental agreements include a certain amount of weight, called the 'weight allowance,\" and that number plays a role in price, too.
\n\nFor example, if you go over your dumpster's included weight limit, you'll be charged extra.
\n\nThe type of project you have will affect the weight of your debris.
\n\nTypically, household junk is on the lighter side.
\n\nRoofing shingles, concrete, dirt, and construction debris are all on the heavier side, and as such, may cost more to dispose of.
\n\nEstimating the volume of waste you have can be difficult, but dumpster rental providers are experts at knowing which size is right for your project.
\n\nTo ensure you get the best price and the best customer service when renting a dumpster, we recommend reaching out to three or more companies for quotes. This will help ensure you choose the right dumpster and the right service for you and your project.
\nKeep reading:
\n\nToo often, customers are surprised by additional fees and overage charges, so it's important to understand the rental terms by reading the contract thoroughly.
\n\n\n\n\nTo ensure your dumpster rental goes smoothly, know your rental terms ahead of time.
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Here are just some of the things you should discuss with your contractor before scheduling delivery:
\n\nUnderstanding the weight included in your dumpster rental is particularly important if you're disposing of heavy debris.
\n\nIf you go over your weight limit, you will have to pay additional fees, which can add up quickly.
\n\nSome companies will automatically come pick the dumpster up at the end of your rental period, but we recommend contacting the company as soon as you’re done with your dumpster to let them know they can pick it up.
\n\nThe sooner you call, the sooner all your junk will be hauled away.
\n\nBecause each hauling company works a little differently, and they have different exceptions to rules, we recommend confirming with them what can and cannot be put in their dumpsters.
\n\nIf you have a small amount of concrete, ask your hauler if you can include it with household junk.
\n\nNever try sneaking in debris you’re not supposed to; the additional weight and overage fees aren’t worth it.
\n\nYou can put nearly anything considered 'general waste' into your dumpster, which includes, but is not limited to:
\n\nSome materials are only allowed in dumpsters if they are “clean loaded,” meaning it is the only material in the dumpster.
\n\nThese include:
\n\nCheck with your contractor to see what discounts are available for clean-loading your dumpster.
\n\nYou cannot put hazardous waste or liquids, food waste, and other hazardous materials into your dumpster.
\n\nThis includes, but is not limited to:
\n\nIf you have any hazardous or unacceptable items, talk with your contractor or contact your local county office to learn how and where you can properly dispose of them.
\n\nOnce you've shopped around a bit and you've found the best company/price for you, it's time to schedule a delivery day and time.
\n\nContact the company of choice and let them know when you need your dumpster.
\n\nIf they can't provide the dumpster when you need it, you will likely want to call another company.
\n\nWhen scheduling delivery, be sure to let the company know if you want it dropped off somewhere other than your driveway.
\n\nIf you have a specific location in mind, point them in the right direction and let them know where you'd like your dumpster placed.
\n\nThey'll usually place wood planks underneath the dumpster to protect your driveway/property and make sure it's set up for easy access.
\n\nDumpster rental companies get busy, especially in the warmer months, so to ensure you get the right size dumpster when you need it, schedule to have a dumpster delivered to your property the day before you intend to start your project.
\n\nOnce your dumpster is where you need it, it's time to load it up with all your junk or debris
\n\nWe recommend being as space-conscious as possible to ensure you have enough space for the junk you'd like to get rid of.
\n\nThis is especially true if you're getting rid of various pieces of furniture or other relatively lightweight odds and ends.
\n\nOnce you’re done using your dumpster, contact the rental company to let them know you’re ready for it to be picked up.
\n\nWhen they arrive, they’ll place a hook on your dumpster, pull it back onto their truck, and haul it away (as shown below).
\n\n\n\nIn order to guarantee your dumpster pick-up goes smoothly, avoid overfilling the dumpster, and make sure the dumpster pick-up truck can easily access it.
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\nFor example, if a car is parked in front of your dumpster and you’re not home when they come to pick it up, you’ll have to pay what’s commonly referred to as a “dry run” or “trip charge.”
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\nYou can also be charged for driver delay and container dig-out if your dumpster is stuck or you delay the driver in any way.
Keep reading:
\n\nLearn everything there is to know about renting a dumpster and how to get the best price. Explore tips on getting the right dumpster size, understanding rental terms, and what affects cost.
\r\n","changed":"2021-06-05T01:51:44+00:00"},"populars":[{"id":"6e771073-df3f-570b-b1c9-b393c5c0b6d8","title":"How to Rent a Dumpster","url":"/blog/how-to-rent-a-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/3e130f08ca0469937b979b893479ca54/roll-off-dumpster.png","alt":""},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"79f88323-9203-564c-a126-747925fc2bca","name":"Roll Off Dumpster","slug":"Roll-Off-Dumpster"}],"content":"If this is your first time renting a dumpster, Hometown can help with a short overview on how to rent a dumpster. Learning a few of the basics can greatly simplify your dumpster rental experience.
\r\n\r\n\r\nThe cost of renting a dumpster varies widely based on your location. The national average cost of renting a 10 yard dumpster is $300, while the national average cost of renting a 40 cubic yard container is nearly $500 for one-weekek rental. What you pay depends primarily on landfill fees in your area, the size of the container you need, and the dumpster company you select. To get the best price on a dumpster, get quotes from multiple rental companies.
\r\n\r\nMost companies quote one flat rate fee for delivery, pickup, and disposal (though some add delivery charges separately). The rental rate is usually for a standard period of time (for example... up to 7 days) and includes a certain amount of weight (for example... up to 3 tons). If you exceed this weight allowance, you will be subject to overage fees typically ranging from $50 to $100 per ton that you go over.
\r\n\r\nWhen comparing dumpster rental prices between two companies:
\r\n\r\nExtra charges may apply if you need the roll off dumpster for longer than a provider's standard rental period. This is typically a per day fee (ie $5 or $10 per day), but some dumpster services will negotiate with you up front if you need it for slightly longer than their standard period.
\r\n\r\nPay particular attention to the amount of weight included in your price if you are disposing of heavy construction debris like bricks, cement, roofing shingles, or demolition debris. If you're renting a trash dumpster for cleaning out your home of miscellaneous household debris, you will typically not have to worry about 'over weight' fees because the debris is lighter.
\r\n\r\nLearn how to rent a dumpster and be free of your debris. Get information about costs to rent a dumpster, choosing container sizes, and expert tips. Save on your dumpster rental wtih Hometown!
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:31:11+00:00"},{"id":"e4330393-eacd-54f6-ba04-8ffcbda8728b","title":"Comparing the Cost of Junk Removal to Dumpster Rental","url":"/blog/comparing-the-cost-of-junk-removal-to-dumpster-rental","image":{"path":"/static/63661a10d8a316fe97c44935ca6333db/dumpster-rental-and-junk-removal-cost-comparison.png","alt":"dumpster rental and junk removal cost comparison"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"}],"content":"When it comes to any sort of bulk waste or debris removal, your two best options are hiring a junk removal company or renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nBut how do you know which is the most cost-effective option for you?
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\nCosts can vary greatly when renting a dumpster or hiring a junk hauler and are based on multiple factors.
\r\n
We'll go over:
\r\n\r\nA dumpster costs $250-$450 on average to rent, but as we've mentioned, prices can vary.
\r\n\r\nDumpsters are typically the most cost-effective option for medium to large projects or when you need to manage debris during an ongoing project.
\r\n\r\nA kitchen or bathroom renovation, house addition, demolition project, or large deck removal job are projects where a dumpster may be the more economical solution.
\r\n\r\nHaving a dumpster on-site for bigger projects allows you to fill it up at your convenience while keeping a clean, safe site.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of dumpster rental costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tMarietta, GA | \r\n\t\t\t$275 | \r\n\t\t
| 10 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tYonkers, NY | \r\n\t\t\t$300 | \r\n\t\t
| 15 yard roll-off dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tWorcester, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$350 | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard debris box | \r\n\t\t\tLos Angeles, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$400 | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard dumpster | \r\n\t\t\tSpringfield, IL | \r\n\t\t\t$550 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Learn more about pricing:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies charge a minimum amount for any junk removal, with the average around $75 to $100.
\r\n\r\nIf you have one or two items you’re getting rid of—like a TV, sofa, or mattress—you’ll probably be charged the minimum amount.
\r\n\r\nFor small cleanups, junk removal is typically the more cost-effective option.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company may remove a small garage-worth of items for $200 when it may cost you $250 to rent a 10 yard bin to do the loading yourself.
\r\n\r\nIn this case, junk removal is the cheaper (and less back-breaking) option.
\r\n\r\nBelow are a few real-world examples of junk removal costs around the country to help give you a general idea of what to expect.
\r\n\r\n| Junk Removal Description | \r\n\t\t\tLocation | \r\n\t\t\tCost | \r\n\t\t
| Refrigerator removal | \r\n\t\t\tManhattan Beach, CA | \r\n\t\t\t$165 | \r\n\t\t
| Removal of 2 TVs | \r\n\t\t\tOmaha, NE | \r\n\t\t\t$45 | \r\n\t\t
| Living room set removal (sectional couch, two china cabinets) | \r\n\t\t\tToms River, NJ | \r\n\t\t\t$169 | \r\n\t\t
| Storage unit cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tSandy, UT | \r\n\t\t\t$375 | \r\n\t\t
| Hoarding home cleanout | \r\n\t\t\tFranklin, MA | \r\n\t\t\t$1,500 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Remember: Every project is different, so calling at least two dumpster rental and two junk removal companies to compare pricing is the best way to determine the most economical debris removal solution.
\r\nDumpster rental and junk removal costs vary based on a number of factors, including the type and amount of debris, where you're located, the accessibility of your property, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nYour exact project cost will depend on these factors, and the best way to get an accurate estimate for your rental or project is to reach out to multiple service providers in your area for a quote.
\r\n\r\nThis not only ensures you get the best price but also allows you to choose the best company for the job, not just the cheapest.
\r\n\r\nDo you live out in the country or far off the beaten path?
\r\n\r\nIf so, you can expect your dumpster rental or junk removal service to cost more due to the cost of travel incurred by the company.
\r\n\r\nCost of living and local disposal fees also play a large role in cost.
\r\n\r\nFor example, you’ll pay significantly more in New York City to rent a dumpster than you would in Memphis, TN based on the difference in cost of living.
\r\n\r\nYou'll also likely pay more for an apartment cleanout that requires hauling items up and down flights of stairs compared to the same size cleanout in the same zip code that is conveniently located on the first floor.
\r\n\r\nSome service providers—dumpster and junk removal—charge differently for household wastes vs. construction and demolition (C&D) debris.
\r\n\r\nC&D debris is often heavier, so it may end up costing more to haul away than general household trash.
\r\n\r\nThe heavier the load, the more you’ll pay.
\r\n\r\nFor junk removal, costs rise as the volume of junk increases.
\r\n\r\nA full truckload of junk, for example, costs more than a load taking up just half of the truck’s total capacity.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, if you exceed the weight limit of your dumpster rental you'll likely be hit with overage fees.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nThe two best ways to remove bulk waste are to either rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal company, but which option is the most cost-effective? Learn about the average costs associated with each service to determine which is the best option for your project.
\r\n","changed":"2023-09-05T17:33:18+00:00"},{"id":"cbdb3b53-9a28-5eae-8001-460da17f460c","title":"What Does the World's Most Sustainable City Look Like?","url":"/blog/the-worlds-most-sustainable-city","image":{"path":"/static/a0673f3f31324e7e8af0cf34ee0b47d3/masdar-city-master-plan-640x466.jpg","alt":"Masdar City sustainable design"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"8a088d18-16c4-5f32-8898-b75d5543d9fa","name":"Environment","slug":"Environment"},{"id":"8a556635-2a85-5e01-a170-d18bb873bb0e","name":"Sustainability","slug":"Sustainability"}],"content":"An artist's rendering of Masdar City
\r\n\r\n\r\n
Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
\r\n\r\nThe Masdar Institute of Science and Technology
\r\n\r\n\r\n
Masdar City addresses every sustainability issue you could ever think of:
\r\n\r\nSince the focus of Trash Talk is waste/trash/garbage, that’s the part of the city’s master plan we were most intrigued by. Phase 1 of Masdar City’s waste management plan will divert 50 percent of all waste away from landfills, or the equivalent of about 11,000 metric tons. The plan is to sort waste into three main streams: dry recyclables (i.e., cans and cardboard), wet recyclables (i.e., food scraps) and residuals (i.e., empty food containers). Dry recyclables will be shipped to the recycling center while wet recyclables will be composted and used for landscaping purposes. Other residual waste, including toxic waste, will be handled outside the city.
\r\n\r\nIs Masdar City the city of the future? It very well could be. However, it’s tough to say for sure until the city is fully developed and operational. This won’t happen until 2025 assuming everything stays on schedule. On paper, the city looks incredible and is amazingly eco-friendly. That said, there’s no way of knowing how accurate this will translate in real life. My best guess is that Masdar City succeeds in developing the most sustainable city in the world. However, it comes with a steep price – estimates put the price tag at around $18 to $19 billion.
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\r\nImages via: Masdar City Official Website
Smack dab in the middle of the desert is the location of one of the world’s greenest cities. Masdar City is located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The city is actually still in the early stages of being developed, but several buildings are fully operational, including the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology.
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