With roughly 40% of landfill waste being paper, its no wonder why consumers and businesses are being called now more than ever to recycle paper as often as possible.
\r\n\r\nWe are all sitting on a huge opportunity to reduce the size of our landfills at a time when landfill \"real estate\" is limited and dwindling by the day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecycling is a great cause but there are rules you must follow in order to not contaminate a batch of recyclables.
\r\n
Not following these rules can lead to recyclables having to be tossed into a landfill, producing the exact opposite results you were trying for.
\r\n\r\nWe'll go over everything you need to know about paper recycling for homes and businesses so you can ensure your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n\r\nAs we've already mentioned, one of the more obvious benefits of recycling paper is conserving landfill space, but that only just scratches the surface of the many benefits of paper recycling.
\r\n\r\nMany of us were taught in school that recycling paper helps to reduce the amount of trees that are cut down, but how many trees are we actually preserving?
\r\n\r\nTo put it in perspective, if all newspapers that were put into production every year were recycled, we could save around 250 MILLION trees each year!
\r\n\r\nFor every ton (2,000 lbs) of paper that is recycled, we save roughly:
\r\n\r\nIf you're more motivated by the economy than you are the environment, don't worry, we've got you covered there too.
\r\n\r\nA new study by Eco-Cycle shows that if the United States could transition to a 75% recycling rate by the year 2030, we would create an estimate 1-2 million new jobs!
\r\n\r\nJobs created by the recycling industry aren't minimum wage jobs, either. The recycling industry offers theirs workers competitive wages and health benefits.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nOne of the most important things to keep in mind when recycling paper is that it is crucial to keep all paper products clean.
\r\n\r\nIn a mixed recycling bin where you throw aluminum, glass, plastic, paper, and cardboard, you're much more likely to get cross contamination from foods or liquids which can ruin an entire bale of recyclable paper.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe best paper recycling practice is to keep the paper separate from other types of recyclables so that they can remain clean.
\r\n
It's also important to understand the different types of paper products we use and what they can often be lined or mixed with.
\r\n\r\nSome of the old ways that we or our parents were taught to recycle is no longer applicable and can actually contaminate our more current paper recycling processes today.
\r\n\r\nChina is the world's largest purchaser of recycled paper and they have strict rules, requiring that recycled paper have 1% or less of contamination.
\r\n\r\nSo while it used to not be necessary in the past to remove the plastic windows in business envelopes, it can be the difference between contaminating recycled paper that can be repurchased or not.
\r\n\r\nThe best practices for recycling any type of material is to understand exactly what can and can't go in your bin, specifically in your area.
\r\n\r\nSome recycling facilities can handle certain products that others cannot.
\r\n\r\nFor example, most recycling centers can't recycle paper cups because they are actually lined with plastic.
\r\n\r\nThere are, however, some recycling centers that have special machines that can separate this plastic from cups.
\r\n\r\nThat's why it's important to get a list of accepted material directly from your waste management company so that you aren't mistakingly contaminating the paper or other items you're trying to recycle.
\r\n\r\nHere is a list of the most universally accepted paper products that can be recycled:
\r\n\r\nMixed material items like orange juice containers and milk cartons can be recycled in some areas, and not in others.
\r\n\r\nAgain, that's why it's important to do local research before tossing just anything into your recycling bin.
\r\n\r\n![\"Paper](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/paper-cup.jpg\")
\r\nThere are many common mistakes well-intentioned people make when recycling paper.
\r\n\r\nOne of the most common is tossing in pizza boxes with grease stains.
\r\n\r\nWhile cardboard is a recyclable material, no paper products that are contaminated with food should be recycled.
\r\n\r\nIf the top half of your pizza box does not have any grease on it, feel free to separate that from the bottom half of your pizza box and put it into your recycling as long as you're sure it's clean.
\r\n\r\nAnother common mistake people make is throwing in paper items that are lined or coated with wax or plastic, like paper cups, milk cartons, juice boxes, receipts, parchment paper, printed photographs, etc.
\r\n\r\nMany recycling centers can't recycle paper with fibers are already heavily refined, like tissue paper.
\r\n\r\nPaper towels and napkins have fibers that are too short to be recycled (but they can be composted!).
\r\n\r\nOne of the more shocking pieces of information regarding paper recycling that is a common mistake, for businesses especially, is that shredded paper cannot be recycled in the same manner as regular paper.
\r\n\r\nThe fibers in shredded paper have been shortened too much and the small pieces often jam recycling machinery.
\r\n\r\nSome facilities allow shredded paper that is contained in plastic bags and kept separate from other full pieces of paper, but not all do.
\r\n\r\nCheck with your local facility to learn more.
\r\n\r\nIf your curbside trash service also offers recycling, having your recycling picked up at the end of your driveway is certainly the most convenient option.
\r\n\r\nFor those who live in areas where this isn't offered, however, there are plenty of other options available.
\r\n\r\nMany communities have drop-off recycling programs or community dumpsters at different drop-off locations for recyclables.
\r\n\r\nMichigan, for example, has a paper and cardboard recycling program called PaperGator where residents can deposit their recyclable paper products into dumpster containers at several designated drop-off locations.
\r\n\r\nVisit Earth 911 to find recycling centers or programs near you. You can type in the specific type of material you'd like to recycle, as well as your zip code, and you'll be shown recycling solutions in your area.
\r\n\r\nIf you're a business or contractor that has large amounts of paper or cardboard to recycle that won't fit in your curbside collection, consider renting a dumpster for your recycling efforts.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you have a lot of paper to recycle but not enough to justify renting a dumpster, consider hiring a junk removal company to haul away your paper for you.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company will be able to recycle all your paper and cardboard products on your behalf without you having to lift a finger.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find junk removal services and dumpster rentals for all types of disposals across the U.S., including paper recycling!
\r\n\r\nSearch your zip code, answer a few quick questions about your project needs, and get free quotes from qualified companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nLearn everything you need to know about paper recycling to ensure that your recycling efforts don't go to waste.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-15T18:07:46+00:00"},{"id":"4c747b01-8ac9-5393-9e79-5865464b74b3","title":"Waste Management's Dumpster Rental Prices Are Costly Compared to Local Haulers","url":"/blog/waste-managements-dumpster-rental-prices-are-costly-compared-to-local-haulers","image":{"path":"/static/2feedbdb606f798f2a63c35767a8de4b/save-money-by-hiring-local.png","alt":"jar of money labeled \"save\""},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"},{"id":"635dd995-8794-5ed6-8d6a-b96d843f0775","name":"Dumpster Comparison","slug":"Dumpster-Comparison"}],"content":"National chain Waste Management (WM) offers 10, 20, 30, and 40 yard roll-off dumpsters for rent in most areas throughout the U.S.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhile WM is a great, affordable option for regularly scheduled residential trash pickup services, their dumpster rentals are oftentimes more expensive in comparison to locally-owned dumpster rental services.
\r\n
\r\n
The 20 yard roll-off container is the most commonly rented dumpster option that WM offers, so we'll compare WM's average price for this size to other service providers throughout the country.
\r\n\r\n![\"20](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/20-yard-dumpster-comparison-infographic.png\")
\r\nNationwide, the average cost to rent a 20 yard dumpster from Waste Management is $450-$650.
\r\n\r\nWe compared rental prices for a 20 yard Waste Management dumpster to the average cost to rent a 20 yard dumpster from smaller, locally-owned haulers in 48 metro areas across the U.S.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRenting from a local hauler instead of Waste Management costs around $100-$200 less on average.
\r\n
Local haulers offer much lower dumpster rental prices than Waste Management. In most markets, it's not even close.
\r\n\r\nLocal haulers charge $350-$550 on average for a 20 yard dumpster, while Waste Management charges $450-$650 on average for a container of the same size.
\r\n\r\nSometimes companies include a low amount of weight in their price, which can make a company look like the cheaper option at first, but you could end up paying extra in the end if you go over your dumpster weight limit.
\r\n\r\nIn our survey, the amount of weight included in the price was similar, with local haulers offering slightly more on average.
\r\n\r\nLocal haulers include 7,230 lbs on average in their price for a 20 yard container, and WM offers 6,850 lbs on average for the same size.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental overage fees usually come into play if you exceed the included weight of the dumpster.
\r\n\r\nHaulers typically price extra weight on a per-ton basis (per 2,000 lbs), though some will pro-rate additional weight.
\r\n\r\nAgain, extra charges for additional weight were similar between local haulers and WM, with a slightly lower average price for the locally-owned haulers.
\r\n\r\nLocal haulers charge $54 per additional ton on average, while WM charges $62 on average per additional ton.
\r\n\r\nThe cost results from each market surveyed can be found in the chart below.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Top 6 Ways to Avoid Dumpster Overage Fees
\r\n\r\nWaste Management is the largest waste and recycling company in North America, with over 21 million customers throughout the United States and Canada.
\r\n\r\nIt’s a good company, and we have great respect for WM’s green initiatives and sustainability leadership.
\r\n\r\nBut if you're looking for a good price on a temporary dumpster, you generally won't find it at Waste Management.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWith their impressive truck fleet and mastery of logistics, WM’s scheduled curbside collection is highly efficient and often more affordable than local haulers, but WM’s size and scale actually work against it for renting dumpsters.
\r\n
Roll-off dumpster rental is temporary, often not scheduled far in advance, and typically involves a phone call or text message for booking and another for pick-up, which are not WM's strengths.
\r\n\r\nThe following chart showcases the information gathered from our market survey across 48 metro areas across the U.S.
\r\n\r\n| Metro Area | \r\n\t\t\tLocal Company | \r\n\t\t\tLocal Price & Weight Allowance | \r\n\t\t\tWM Price | \r\n\t\t
| Albuquerque, NM | \r\n\t\t\tJackson Compaction | \r\n\t\t\t$350 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$575 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Allegan, MI | \r\n\t\t\tCDR Disposal Service | \r\n\t\t\t$340 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$432.28 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Augusta, GA | \r\n\t\t\tR & R Roll-Off | \r\n\t\t\t$400 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$362.06 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Baton Rouge, LA | \r\n\t\t\tDynamite Dumpsters | \r\n\t\t\t$425 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$429 incl. 12,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Birmingham, AL | \r\n\t\t\tSouthern Waste | \r\n\t\t\t$345 incl. 12,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$474 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Bloomington, IL | \r\n\t\t\tContractor's Disposal | \r\n\t\t\t$535 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$754.24 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Buffalo, NY | \r\n\t\t\tAAA Trash Be Gone | \r\n\t\t\t$395 incl. 4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$503.86 incl. 2,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Charlotte, NC | \r\n\t\t\tA-1 Dumpster Rentals | \r\n\t\t\t$350 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$385.50 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Cherry Hill, NJ | \r\n\t\t\tWalkers Container | \r\n\t\t\t$500 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$531.97 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Chicago, IL | \r\n\t\t\tGreenWay Recycling | \r\n\t\t\t$340 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$565.34 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Colorado Springs, CO | \r\n\t\t\tHome Builders Services | \r\n\t\t\t$300 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$525 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Columbia, SC | \r\n\t\t\tA-1 Clean Up & Movers | \r\n\t\t\t$295 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$457.13 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Columbus, OH | \r\n\t\t\tBin There Dump That | \r\n\t\t\t$335 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$551.87 incl. 4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Dallas, TX | \r\n\t\t\tDB Disposal | \r\n\t\t\t$310 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$464 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Dawsonville, GA | \r\n\t\t\t400 Waste & Scrap | \r\n\t\t\t$300 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$481.88 incl. 6000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Denver, CO | \r\n\t\t\tHome Builders Services | \r\n\t\t\t$320 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$540 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Eau Claire, WI | \r\n\t\t\tRightaway Rolloff | \r\n\t\t\t$255 incl. 0 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$587.09 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Fort Collins, CO | \r\n\t\t\tHome Builders Services | \r\n\t\t\t$350 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$545 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Fort Lauderdale, FL | \r\n\t\t\tIdeal Site Services | \r\n\t\t\t$400 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$410 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Fort Worth, TX | \r\n\t\t\tMarco Waste Removal | \r\n\t\t\t$300 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$464 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Grand Rapids, MI | \r\n\t\t\tGR Dumpster Rental | \r\n\t\t\t$295 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$432.28 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Indianapolis, IN | \r\n\t\t\tGreenway Dumpsters | \r\n\t\t\t$350 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$718.80 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Louisburg, NC | \r\n\t\t\tBin There Dump That | \r\n\t\t\t$365 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$593.88 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Louisville, KY | \r\n\t\t\tInnovative Crushing | \r\n\t\t\t$350 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$452.08 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Minneapolis, MN | \r\n\t\t\tA1 Hauling & Rolloffs | \r\n\t\t\t$349 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$464.78 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Orlando, FL | \r\n\t\t\tAmerican Waste | \r\n\t\t\t$300 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$500 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Paterson, NJ | \r\n\t\t\tLeonti Recycling | \r\n\t\t\t$395 incl. 4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$588.98 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Philadelphia, PA | \r\n\t\t\tTri-State Waste | \r\n\t\t\t$490 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$427.47 incl. 4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Phoenix, AZ | \r\n\t\t\tScott Waste Services | \r\n\t\t\t$300 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$560 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Portland, OR | \r\n\t\t\tRockwood Solid Waste | \r\n\t\t\t$335 incl. 4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$783.17 incl. 4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| South Bend, IN | \r\n\t\t\tJunoll Services | \r\n\t\t\t$350 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$627.86 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| St. Joseph, MI | \r\n\t\t\tLakeShore Roll-Off | \r\n\t\t\t$350 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$645.30 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| St. Louis, MO | \r\n\t\t\t2 Dump It | \r\n\t\t\t$325 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$438.96 incl. 10,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| St. Paul, MN | \r\n\t\t\tAll-Ways Hauling | \r\n\t\t\t$338 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$547.68 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Syracuse, NY | \r\n\t\t\tMar-Con Companies | \r\n\t\t\t$330 incl. 4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$447.31 incl. 2,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Tampa, FL | \r\n\t\t\tSarnago and Sons | \r\n\t\t\t$350 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$560 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Toms River, NJ | \r\n\t\t\tD&D Disposal | \r\n\t\t\t$675 incl. 8,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$607.97 incl. 6,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Westchester County, NY | \r\n\t\t\tAffordable Carting | \r\n\t\t\t$440 incl. 4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t\t$635.41 incl. 4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
Pricing information collected in 2019
\r\n\r\nMany people don't realize that there are three different types of companies that rent dumpsters, and understanding the distinction between them can save you money.
\r\n\r\nWe always recommend hiring from a local dumpster company because they generally provide better customer service and better prices.
\r\n\r\nYour other two options—renting from a large national hauler or from a dumpster broker—are almost always more expensive for lower quality customer service.
\r\n\r\nAlong with better prices, local dumpster companies also tend to offer better customer service.
\r\n\r\nEnsure you get the best price by getting several dumpster rental quotes from rental companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nHometown is a convenient, easy-to-use search engine that allows you to instantly connect with vetted and insured dumpster companies in your local community.
\r\n\r\nContact as many companies as you'd like to compare free quotes—we recommend getting at least three estimates to make sure you get the best price for your dumpster rental when you need it as well as great customer service.
\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nFind out why you should be renting local instead of renting from the big guys, like Waste Management. Save $155 or more in some instances, and get the best customer service.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-02T18:09:27+00:00"},{"id":"bbd1a669-0380-5a55-ac47-f84232029644","title":"Who Has the Cheapest Dumpsters?","url":"/blog/who-has-the-cheapest-dumpsters","image":{"path":"/static/9521b372952ad16273600c3979111bdd/falldumpster.png","alt":"Two empty dumpsters in a parking lot"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"}],"content":"Renting a dumpster isn't something that most people do everyday, so it's common to wonder, \"Who offers the cheapest dumpsters?\"
\r\n\r\nThere are a few different types of companies who offer temporary residential dumpster rentals and knowing the difference between them is key to ensuring you get the best deal and customer service.
\r\n\r\nThere are 3 main types of companies that offer dumpster rentals:
\r\n\r\nWe recommend avoiding dumpster brokers if possible. They act as the middleman between you and the actual dumpster provider and charge you more as a result.
\r\n\r\nThey essentially do what you could do on your own—research local providers that service your zip code—and they often do so from a completely different location that is not local to you or the dumpster provider.
\r\n\r\nFor example, if you're renting a dumpster in Michigan, you typically don't want to be dealing with customer service stationed in California.
\r\n\r\nNational waste companies tend to put their focus on weekly trash pick-up services. Nationwide waste management companies often provide the cheapest weekly residential trash service, but when it comes to dumpsters, they tend to cost more than their locally-owned competitors.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLocally-owned and operated companies that specialize in dumpster rentals tend to offer the most competitive pricing.
\r\n
It's also worth mentioning that their customer service tends to be better too, because you're able to speak directly to the person who will be providing your service rather than someone who works in a call center.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nTo get the best dumpster rental price, don't just rent from the first local company you find.
\r\n\r\nIt's always best practice to get multiple dumpster rental quotes from providers in your area to ensure you're paying a competitive price and receiving the highest quality of customer service.
\r\n\r\nThere are several different factors that will affect the going rate for dumpster rentals in your area, like:
\r\n\r\nWhen reaching out to several different companies to check on pricing and availability, make sure you ask the right questions, like:
\r\n\r\nThese questions will help you understand the dumpster rental quote you're being given to best determine which company is the right fit for your waste disposal project.
\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to finding the cheapest locally-owned dumpster rental companies, Hometown is the best resource.
\r\n\r\nBy searching your zip code and answering a few quick questions about your project needs, you'll be shown a variety of licensed and insured dumpster companies that service your area.
\r\n\r\nFrom there you can read about each company, read reviews from real customers, and request free quotes from as many providers as you'd like to be sure you're getting the cheapest dumpster rental available in your area without sacrificing service.
\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster isn't something that most people do everyday, so it's common to wonder, \"Who offers the cheapest dumpsters?\" Learn about the different types of companies who offer temporary dumpster rentals and how to make sure you get the best price.
\r\n","changed":"2022-08-01T15:13:56+00:00"},{"id":"09db95d9-0322-536a-9fc0-8d501d9a7d12","title":"How Much Is a Cubic Yard?","url":"/blog/how-much-is-a-cubic-yard","image":{"path":"/static/654710d426cca7b0bb3fbb6fe0e35894/brick-dumpster.png","alt":"bricks in a dumpster"},"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"}],"content":"Dumpster rentals come in a variety of sizes, and each size is measured in cubic yards.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nKnowing how to estimate your junk or debris in cubic yards will make it easy for you to choose the right dumpster size for your project.
\r\n
A cubic yard measures 1 yard L x 1 yard W x 1 yard H.
\r\n\r\n1 yard is 3 feet, so 1 cubic yard is 27 cubic feet.
\r\n\r\nTo get a better idea of exactly how much junk or debris fits into a cubic yard and the most popular dumpster sizes, we’ll take a closer look at typical dumpster dimensions and loading capacities so that you can make the best choice for your project.
\r\n\r\nGetting a rough estimate of the volume of garbage or debris you have to get rid of is actually a fairly straight-forward task.
\r\n\r\nStart by measuring the length, width, and height of your waste pile in feet. Convert inches into feet by diving the number of inches by 12.
\r\n\r\nIf your pile is too large to comfortable use a tape measure, consider using a measuring wheel instead.
\r\n\r\nOnce you have these dimensions, multiple them all together (LxWxH).
\r\n\r\nBecause 1 cubic yard equals 27 feet, you'll then take your total (LxWxH) and divide it by 27.
\r\n\r\nCubic yardage can also easily be calculated by converting all three of your measured dimensions (of your pile of waste) into yards and multiplying them together.
\r\n\r\nThere is 3 feet in 1 yard, so take each measurement (length, width, and height) and divide it by 3 to convert your measurements to yards.
\r\n\r\nWe'll take the sample measurements used above to explain:
\r\n\r\nNow that you have an estimate of your waste's cubic yardage, choose a dumpster size that best suites your disposal needs.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tAverage Dimensions (LxWxH) | \r\n\t\t\tPick-Up Truck Loads | \r\n\t\t\tWheelbarrow Loads | \r\n\t\t\t33-Gallon Trash Bags | \r\n\t\t\tAverage Weight Limit | \r\n\t\t
| 10 Yard Dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t12x8x4 ft | \r\n\t\t\t3-4 | \r\n\t\t\t90-135 | \r\n\t\t\t55-65 | \r\n\t\t\t2-3 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 15 Yard Dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t15x8x4 ft | \r\n\t\t\t4-5 | \r\n\t\t\t135-202 | \r\n\t\t\t82-98 | \r\n\t\t\t2-4 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 20 Yard Dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t22x8x4 ft | \r\n\t\t\t6-8 | \r\n\t\t\t180-270 | \r\n\t\t\t110-130 | \r\n\t\t\t3-5 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 30 Yard Dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t22x8x6 ft | \r\n\t\t\t8-10 | \r\n\t\t\t270-405 | \r\n\t\t\t170-190 | \r\n\t\t\t4-6 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 40 Yard Dumpster | \r\n\t\t\t22x8x8 ft | \r\n\t\t\t12-16 | \r\n\t\t\t360-540 | \r\n\t\t\t230-250 | \r\n\t\t\t6-8 tons | \r\n\t\t
![\"dumpster](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/checkered-dumpster-dimensions-info_0.jpg\")
\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nAs we mentioned earlier, the weight of your debris will play a factor in the size of the dumpster you'll need.
\r\n\r\nEvery dumpster has a weight limit to keep the rental company's employees, equipment, and customers safe.
\r\n\r\nFor example, 10 cubic yards of concrete could not be safely placed in a 10 yard dumpster the way that 10 cubic yards of general household trash could. Because concrete weighs significantly more than other types of trash, you would need multiple 10 yard dumpsters to safely haul away that amount of heavy waste, like concrete.
\r\n\r\nView the table below to get an idea of how much these common dumpster items weigh with a volume of just 1 cubic yard.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
| 1 Cubic Yard of Material | \r\n\t\t\tAverage Weight | \r\n\t\t
| Asphalt and Concrete | \r\n\t\t\t4,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Bricks | \r\n\t\t\t3,400 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Carpet | \r\n\t\t\t2,300-3,200 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Drywall | \r\n\t\t\t500 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Gravel or Rock | \r\n\t\t\t3,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Household Debris | \r\n\t\t\t150-300 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Leaves and Brush | \r\n\t\t\t400-500 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Mulch | \r\n\t\t\t600-1,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Sand | \r\n\t\t\t2,700 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Scrap Metal | \r\n\t\t\t1,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Scrap Wood | \r\n\t\t\t300 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Shingles (Asphalt) | \r\n\t\t\t2,500 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Shingles (Slate) | \r\n\t\t\t9,500 lbs | \r\n\t\t
| Soil | \r\n\t\t\t2,000 lbs | \r\n\t\t
The good news is, if this all sounds confusing to you, a reputable dumpster provider will be able to help guide you in the right direction.
\r\n\r\nSpeaking with multiple companies and getting several dumpster rental quotes is easily the best way to get an idea of exactly which size dumpster you'll need and what a fair price is for dumpster rentals in your area.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it fast and simple to get free quotes from locally-owned dumpster rental companies in your area. Our single quote request form makes it easy to fill out a few short answers about your project and location and have local service providers reach back out with their pricing and availability.
\r\n\r\nNever be afraid to ask the dumpster companies questions if you're unsure of any part of the process, and be sure to thoroughly go over the rental terms and agreement to ensure you aren't stuck with any added fees on your final bill.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nDumpsters are measured in cubic yards. Learn how to estimate your junk or debris in cubic yards to make it easier to choose the right dumpster size.
\r\n","changed":"2024-01-10T20:45:44+00:00"},{"id":"801ce340-7fb2-5047-91f1-150336f33797","title":"How Do You Measure a Yard of Waste?","url":"/blog/how-do-you-measure-a-yard-of-waste","image":{"path":"/static/d14c2afd5869a7f5485d58f2ec80adc3/measure-yard-of-junk.png","alt":"picturing how much junk is in a garage"},"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"}],"content":"Dumpster rentals come in a variety of sizes, and each size is measured in cubic yards.
\r\n\r\nSimilarly, junk removal services are often priced based on the amount of space the junk takes up in the company's truck or trailer.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nKnowing how to estimate the cubic yardage of your junk or debris will make it easier for you to choose the right service for your project and how much you can expect to pay.
\r\n
To measure a cubic yard of waste, it helps to assemble the junk or debris you're trying to measure into a pile as much as you can so you can see what you're working with and adequately measure it.
\r\n\r\nA cubic yard measures 1 yard long x 1 yard wide x 1 yard high.
\r\n\r\nOn average, 4-6 garbage bags can fit inside a cubic yard, but it's harder to estimate more oddly shaped items, like furniture.
\r\n\r\nOne yard is three feet, so imagine how many 3 ft cubes it will take to hold the amount of junk or debris you have.
\r\n\r\nIf your junk is able to be separated and piled, it will be easier to assess and accurately determine the dumpster size you'll need or if junk removal is perhaps the better option (which is often the case if you have less than 7 cubic yards of debris).
\r\n\r\nThis cubic yard calculator is a helpful tool if you need help measuring how much debris or waste you need to dispose of.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nDumpster rentals and junk removal services are often priced based on the cubic yardage of debris/junk you have. Find out how to estimate the cubic yardage of your junk or debris to easier decide which service is right for your project and how much you can expect to pay.
\r\n","changed":"2022-08-16T17:47:09+00:00"},{"id":"de1351d7-f8e8-549a-91e6-670ef30bef96","title":"Lowboy Dumpster Rental Guide","url":"/blog/lowboy-dumpster-rental-guide","image":{"path":"/static/651c00886a2b382712bd301d3c0ccbe8/Low-Boy-Dumpster-Rental-2.jpg","alt":"Lowboy dumpster rentals"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"a48cf031-6eb2-5dea-8164-b0d5f901dcdf","name":"10 Yard Dumpster","slug":"10-Yard-Dumpster"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Lowboy dumpsters are roll-off containers designed to offer advantages over standard roll-off dumpsters for projects that produce heavy construction or demolition debris.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLowboys are designed for heavy debris, like concrete, dirt, inert debris, roofing shingles, tile, and more.
\r\n
![\"Lowboy](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/Low-Boy-Dumpster-Rental-1.jpg\")
\r\nAs the name implies, lowboy dumpsters sit low to the ground compared to traditional roll-off containers.
\r\n\r\nThere isn’t an industry-standard size for roll-off containers or lowboys, but lowboys generally have side walls that are about half the height of standard roll-off dumpsters of the same capacity.
\r\n\r\nHere’s an example:
\r\n\r\nTypical 10 yard roll-off dumpster dimensions are 12 ft L x 8 ft W x 4 ft H, and common 10 yard lowboy dumpster dimensions are 18 ft L x 8 ft W x 2 ft H, though dimensions may vary.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe primary advantage that lowboy dumpsters offer is the ability for workers to load debris over the sides much easier than with a taller standard roll-off dumpster.
\r\n
The low sides makes it much easier and more efficient to load debris over the side by hand or by small equipment, such as a Bobcat.
\r\n\r\nOne potential downside is the large footprint of lowboy dumpsters. They take up more space compared to traditional roll-offs. You can see this when comparing the dumpster dimensions mentioned above.
\r\n\r\nPrior to booking, it’s important to ensure there is enough space for lowboy dumpster placement at the job site.
\r\n\r\nLearn More: Best Dumpster Sizes for Small Demolition Projects
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"10](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/Low-Boy-Dumpster-Rental-3.jpg\")
\r\nThe availability of lowboy dumpsters is low nationwide.
\r\n\r\nNot every dumpster rental company has lowboy dumpsters in stock, which can be major drawback if this is the type of dumpster that best suits your project.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nA traditional roll-off container with a walk-in design offers a viable alternative.
\r\n
These dumpsters have a door that swings open, allowing you to walk debris right into the container. Just make sure to have enough room to open the door(s). For example, don’t place it too close to the garage or the door may not be able to swing open.
\r\n\r\nLearn More:
\r\n\r\nLowboy dumpsters are a roll-off container with shorter sides compared to traditional roll-off dumpsters. Find out why lowboys are ideal for loading heavy debris over the sides and how much debris they can typically accommodate.
\r\n","changed":"2025-11-13T18:36:15+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"California","place":"Bakersfield, CA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"california/commercial-waste-management-bakersfield-ca","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"California","place":"Visalia, CA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"California/dumpsters-visalia.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"California","place":"Santa Rosa, CA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"california/commercial-waste-management-santa-rosa-ca","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"California","place":"Oakland, CA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"California/Oakland-dumpsters.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"California","place":"Modesto, CA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"California/junk-removal/modesto-ca.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"California","place":"Santa Rosa, CA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"California/junk-removal/santa-rosa-ca.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Dumpsters for Rent","body":"Learn more: Lower Your Cost to Rent a Dumpster
\r\nLearn more: Roll-off Dumpster Size Guide
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