Renting a roll-off dumpster
Roll-off dumpsters come in a handful of standard sizes measured in cubic yards: a 10-yard box handles a garage cleanout or small bathroom demo, a 20-yard is the workhorse for whole-room renovations and estate cleanouts, and 30- and 40-yard containers are for major construction, big roofing tear-offs, and full-house clearouts. When in doubt, size up one notch — a second haul because the first box filled early costs far more than the next size would have.
One tip that saves real money: many national-sounding websites are brokers that mark up a local hauler's price. The companies you find here are the ones with the actual trucks — calling a local hauler directly usually gets you a better rate and straighter answers. When you get a quote, confirm what it includes: the rental period (7–14 days is typical), the weight allowance in tons, the per-ton overage charge, and what materials are prohibited. Ask for boards under the wheels if the box is going on your driveway.
How much does a dumpster rental cost?
Most residential rentals land between $300 and $600 for a one-to-two-week period, varying with container size, your region, and local landfill fees. The quoted price includes a weight allowance; exceed it and you pay a per-ton overage (commonly $50–$100 per ton). Heavy materials like concrete, dirt, or shingles are often priced as special loads — tell the company what you're tossing when you book.
What size dumpster do I need?
Rough guide: 10-yard for a garage or attic cleanout or up to about 3,000 sq ft of roof tear-off; 20-yard for a kitchen or basement renovation and most estate cleanouts; 30–40-yard for construction debris, additions, and whole-home clearouts. Renting slightly bigger than you think you need is the cheap form of insurance.
What can't go in a dumpster?
Hazardous waste is the universal no: paint and solvents, motor oil, chemicals, batteries, and propane tanks. Tires, mattresses, and appliances containing refrigerant are banned or surcharged by many haulers. Electronics rules vary by state. Ask for the prohibited list up front — pulling banned items out of a load afterward triggers fees.
Do I need a permit?
Not if the dumpster sits on your own driveway or property. If it has to go on the street or another public right-of-way, most cities require a temporary permit — usually cheap and quick, and many haulers will tell you exactly what your town requires or handle it for you. Ask when you book, not on delivery day.