When planning a home renovation, construction project, or major cleanout, selecting the right roll-off dumpster size is essential. Dumpster sizes are measured in cubic yards, which determine how much debris each container can hold.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nChoosing a dumpster that’s too small may result in multiple hauls, while renting one that’s too large can waste money.
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In this guide, we’ll break down the most common dumpster sizes, their dimensions, and typical weight limits so you can confidently pick the perfect roll-off dumpster for your project.
\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"common](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/common-dumpster-sizes.png\")
\r\nDumpster sizes are commonly measured in cubic yards. The dumpster sizes listed in the chart below are typical, but because dumpster dimensions are not standardized, they may vary from one hauler to the next.
\r\n\r\n| \r\n\t\t\t Size \r\n\t\t\t | \r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t Typical Dimensions \r\n\t\t\t | \r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t Maximum Volume \r\n\t\t\t | \r\n\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t Typical Weight Allowance \r\n\t\t\t | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 yard | \r\n\t\t\t12 ft L x 8 ft W x 3.5 ft H | \r\n\t\t\t10 cubic yards | \r\n\t\t\t2-3 tons \r\n\t\t\t(4,000-6,000 lbs) | \r\n\t\t
| 20 yard | \r\n\t\t\t22 ft L x 8 ft W x 4 ft H | \r\n\t\t\t20 cubic yards | \r\n\t\t\t2-4 tons \r\n\t\t\t(4,000-8,000 lbs) | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard | \r\n\t\t\t22 ft L x 8 ft W x 6 ft H | \r\n\t\t\t30 cubic yards | \r\n\t\t\t4-5 tons \r\n\t\t\t(8,000-10,000 lbs) | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard | \r\n\t\t\t22 ft L x 8 ft W x 8 ft H | \r\n\t\t\t40 cubic yards | \r\n\t\t\t6-8 tons \r\n\t\t\t(12,000-16,000 lbs) | \r\n\t\t
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Learn more: Facts and Figures about Materials, Waste and Recycling
\r\n\r\nThere's no perfect way to choose dumpster sizes, but a 10 yard dumpster may be appropriate for smaller residential cleanup projects.
\r\n\r\nWhat fits in a 10 yard dumpster?
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nA 20 yard container is the right dumpster size for a wide range of projects and can hold roughly 10 pickup truck loads' worth of waste and debris.
\r\n\r\nThis is one of the most popular dumpster sizes because of its price, compact footprint, and capacity.
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What fits in a 20 yard dumpster?
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nA 30 yard dumpster holds 30 cubic yards of waste.
\r\n\r\nCommon dumpster dimensions for a 30 yard roll-off container are 22 ft long by 8 ft wide by 6 ft high.
\r\n\r\nA 30 yard dumpster may be the right solution for complete whole-home or estate cleanouts and commercial cleanup projects.
\r\n\r\nWhat fits in a 30 yard dumpster?
\r\n\r\nA 40 yard dumpster holds 40 cubic yards of waste.
\r\n\r\nAgain, dumpster sizes and dimensions may vary but common dimensions for a 40 yard dumpster are 22 ft long by 8 ft wide by 8 ft high.
\r\n\r\nA 40 yard dumpster is ideal for large residential projects, commercial cleanups, and industrial applications.
\r\n\r\nWhat fits in a 40 yard dumpster?
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Large Dumpster Rental Guide: When Is a 30 yard or 40 yard Dumpster the Best Choice?
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
The 3 biggest factors that you should consider when choosing a dumpster size are:
\r\n\r\nEstimating the volume of your debris is challenging, especially when you need a dumpster for construction debris or household junk.
\r\n\r\nChoosing a dumpster that's too small can be an expensive mistake. If you attempt to save a few bucks by trying to squeeze your debris into a dumpster that's too small, you'll end up paying substantially. The best-case scenario is you're left with the excess debris and have to figure out how to get rid of it later. The worst-case scenario is you have to pay for two dumpsters to remove all the debris, instantly doubling your intended budget. Avoid all of this by sizing up your dumpster rental if you're even remotely unsure if your debris will fit.
\r\n\r\nOn average, sizing up costs less than $100 and can easily save you money in the long run.
\r\n\r\nIf you need the dumpster delivered to a small driveway or alley, be sure to double-check the dimensions of the dumpster with the hauler and compare it to the space you have available.
\r\n\r\nMost roll-off containers are 8 ft wide, but the length of the dumpster increases as you size up.
\r\n\r\nWhen considering the space you need, keep in mind that dumpsters typically have either one 8 ft wide door or two 4 ft wide doors that swing open on the back. These doors make walking in heavy items much easier, so be sure to account for the additional 4-8 feet of space needed to utilize this feature.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster service cannot legally haul your debris on the road if the container is filled too high, for safety's sake. If your dumpster is filled too high, you'll have to remove the excess yourself or be charged a fee if the dumpster company does it for you. If your items exceed the dumpster's weight allowance, you'll have to pay for the overage fees after it's weighed at the landfill or recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nChoosing a roll-off dumpster size can be intimidating if you're a first-time renter, but the professionals you rent from are incredibly good at helping you make the best decision for your disposal needs. Renting a dumpster from a local company is almost always a better deal than renting from large, national waste companies.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find locally-owned dumpster companies in your area, read verified customer reviews, and request free quotes from as many providers as you'd like. We recommend getting at least three different quotes to ensure you get the best price and customer service.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nLearn all about the various dumpster size options available to you. Find out what typically fits in various dumpster sizes and which container is best for your project.
\r\n","changed":"2025-11-10T18:58:36+00:00"},{"id":"4f2c415e-8754-546d-8197-62d5b1038b96","title":"6 Steps to Cleaning Up After Your Basement Floods","url":"/blog/basement-flood-cleanup","image":{"path":"/static/d861c0f209af871d5b5d4881c4462bd8/basement-flood.png","alt":"rubber boots standing on wet floor"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"c31df595-00f6-51ea-a7da-584c54e964ba","name":"Basement Cleanout","slug":"Basement-Cleanout"},{"id":"9b611674-a2b8-541f-99a9-bfaf0063fc7d","name":"Storm Cleanup","slug":"Storm-Cleanup"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"A flood in your basement, whether from a burst pipe, heavy rain, sewer backup, faulty appliance, or floodwaters, is a huge pain, regardless of the severity.
\r\n\r\nStatistics show that more than 14,000 people experience a water disaster of some kind every day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe fallout and cleanup involved with a basement flood doesn't have to be overly stressful, and Hometown is here to help.
\r\n
In this guide, we'll outline the steps you should take to protect your property, and thereby yourself, by getting things dried out, cleaned up, and back to normal as soon as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"basement](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/basement-flood-cleanup-infographic.png\")
\r\nRegardless of the cause of your basement flood, your first question will likely be, \"What do I do now?\"
\r\n\r\nThe first step is to make sure you and any other residents are not putting yourselves at risk.
\r\n\r\nWhenever entering a flooded home or area, be sure you're wearing protective clothing, like rubber boots and gloves.
\r\n\r\nWading through dirty water or touching items that have come into contact with flood water can expose you to pollutants, like bacteria, mold, chemicals, etc.
\r\n\r\nIn cases of more extreme flooding, make sure the house is safe to enter first.
\r\n\r\nKeep an eye out for telltale signs of structural damage, like buckling floors or walls or warped or cracked foundations.
\r\n\r\nWe also recommend taking photos and video of the damage and documenting cleanup efforts in case you need to submit them to your insurer.
\r\n\r\nAdequate documentation will allow the insurance adjuster to accurately assess the damage and your loss.
\r\n\r\nImmediately contact your utility companies if you suspect any damage has occurred to water, gas, electric, or sewer lines.
\r\n\r\nSafety is always more important than salvaging household items, so be wise as you assess the structural integrity of your property.
\r\n\r\nEven a small amount of water can cause an electrocution hazard in your home, so we recommend cutting the power to your home to mitigate your risk, even if there is a widespread power outage.
\r\n\r\nLocate your electrical panel and turn off the main breaker and each fuse switch.
\r\n\r\nLikewise, unplug appliances, equipment, or machinery if they are at risk and prop them up on blocks to keep them out of rising water whenever possible.
\r\n\r\nA backup generator can be a huge asset during floods because they allow for an electric sump pump, water vacuums, fans, and lights to run without putting yourself at risk of electrocution.
\r\n\r\nWe also advise shutting off your gas or reaching out to your gas company to do it for you if your home uses natural gas.
\r\n\r\nIf your home experiences serious flooding, a qualified electrician will need to inspect, clean, and dry the power box before you can turn the power on again.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOnce you're sure your safety is not at risk, the next thing you need to do is stop the water from rising if possible.
\r\n\r\nIf a pipe has burst or a broken appliance is leaking, turn off the water supply to your home immediately.
\r\n\r\nIf your home is flooding due to a storm or natural disaster, call your city to make sure the storm drains are open and cleaned out to ensure the water recedes as quickly as possible.
\r\n\r\n![\"water](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/basement-water-seepage.png\")
\r\nYour homeowner's insurance may be able to help pay for flood damage remediation and repairs if it's included in your policy.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nInsurance companies classify water damage differently and are typically very strict about what they will and won't cover.
\r\n
In many cases, water damage is preventable with adequate home maintenance.
\r\n\r\nBecause of this, insurance providers only cover very specific circumstances.
\r\n\r\nThe most common types of coverage include:
\r\n\r\nFlood damage is not covered in your standard homeowner's insurance policy, but a separate policy can be purchased from government-backed National Flood Insurance Program.
\r\n\r\nIf you live in a Special Flood Hazard Area, you can buy a policy through a private insurer in order to meet your mortgage requirements and federal mandates.
\r\n\r\nHowever, surface water, like rain, rivers, lakes, or oceans overflowing, is excluded.
\r\n\r\nDamage from your pipes bursting is typically covered in a standard homeowner's policy.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if your pipes are slowly leaking over a longer period of time, this damage is excluded.
\r\n\r\nA home insurance policy typically includes water overflow under the water damage clause, but you will need to add water backup coverage.
\r\n\r\nWater Backup Coverage includes the backup of water from a drain, pipe, or sump pump.
\r\n\r\nWater overflow water is usually clear and relatively clean because it's never entered the plumbing system.
\r\n\r\nWater backup water is often dark brown or black and grainy because it comes from deeper within the plumbing system.
\r\n\r\nYou can generally purchase water backup coverage as an add-on coverage when you first purchase your policy in increments of $5,000 of protection.
\r\n\r\nWater damage caused by a storm is likely covered by your standard homeowners policy if the water enters from above ground level.
\r\n\r\nGroundwater seepage is not covered in a standard homeowner's policy.
\r\n\r\nWater seepage is when water seeps into your home via porous material or tiny holes due to groundwater levels rising or excess water in the soil causing hydrostatic pressure against your home's foundation.
\r\n\r\nFollow all the instructions laid out by your insurance company when it comes to the clean up and restoration process.
\r\n\r\nWait to begin any repairs or demolition until your insurance company has sent an adjuster to your home to assess the damage or has given you authorization to move forward.
\r\n\r\nKeep track of all the damage by taking photos and video of the entire process, documenting conversations with your insurer, and maintaining consistent, clear communication.
\r\nRemoving water as quickly as possible after your basement floods is important in order to minimize any damage to flooring, carpets, drywall, etc.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAct quickly to limit damage to your home and avoid further problems down the road.
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If you have a sump pump, this is the best choice for removing large amounts of water.
\r\n\r\nBuckets or a hose to siphon the water are your next best bets.
\r\n\r\nA wet vac can suck up relatively small amount of standing water from carpets and floors.
\r\n\r\nIf the flooding is minimal, mopping up the water with towels or an absorbent mop head is typically sufficient.
\r\n\r\nThe longer the water is allowed to sit in your basement, the more extensive the damage is likely to become.
\r\n\r\nOnce the bulk of the water is removed, open your windows (if it's dry outside) and utilize fans and dehumidifiers to move air and dry out your basement and belongings. Running the air conditioner or furnace can be helpful, too.
\r\n\r\nIf you're able to dry out your basement and belongings in less than 24-48 hours, you can likely get away without removing or tossing too much.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, remember to document the entire process as you go, taking photos and video of the level of flood damage.
\r\n\r\nWater damage can be sneaky and penetrate the structure of your home, causing trapped moisture pockets, which can lead to hidden mildew and mold within your walls or beneath your floors and eventually, structural damage.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend using a moisture meter to ensure moisture doesn't go undetected.
\r\n\r\nIf the flood damage is extensive, you'll want to contact a qualified flood restoration company to take any additional steps to ensure your home is adequately dried out, repairs are made, and the structure is safe for years to come.
\r\n\r\nIf the cause of the flood is covered by your homeowner's insurance, you will need to get authorization from your insurer before beginning cleanup, so reach out to them immediately.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, the faster you can dry things out, the less damage you'll experience.
\r\n\r\nAs soon as it's safe to do so, separate any water-logged items and air them out. (Don't forget to document!)
\r\n\r\nThe quicker you can remove salvageable items, the better chance you have of saving them.
\r\n\r\nIf an item has been exposed to water for more than 24-48 hours, they likely contain mold spores and should be thrown out.
\r\n\r\nSimilarly, we recommend throwing out any food that has been in close proximity to flood water, not just the food that has come in contact with it.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a decent amount of items to get rid of, whether it's random household items, furniture, appliances, or carpeting, a junk removal company can help haul it away quickly and safely.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you'd rather do the work yourself, renting a dumpster is another great option.
\r\n\r\nHometown specializes in helping homeowners find junk removal services and dumpster rentals in their hometown. Browse companies in your area, read customer reviews, and request quotes from multiple providers to ensure you get the best price for great services.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf your basement flood was caused by a burst pipe or broken appliance, a qualified local plumber should be one of your first calls.
\r\n\r\nA plumber will be able to stop the leak, fix the pipe, and resolve any plumbing issues that contributed to the flood.
\r\n\r\nMany plumbers will also recommend restoration companies to help remove any water and restore your property, but don't allow any restoration company to begin any work before your insurance company has the chance to send an adjuster to look at the damage and assess your claim.
\r\n\r\nFind reputable demolition contractors in your area to help you complete any structural or renovation-related work. We also recommend getting multiple quotes from demolition contractors before signing a contract to ensure you don't overpay.
\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nA flood in your basement is a huge pain, regardless of the severity. Learn the steps you should take to protect your property, and thereby yourself, by getting things dried out, cleaned up, and back to normal as soon as possible.
\r\n","changed":"2022-02-09T15:23:23+00:00"},{"id":"a3c09430-d7c3-5d6f-aee5-400bed4ab19a","title":"The Benefits of Renting a Trailer Dumpster","url":"/blog/benefits-of-renting-a-trailer-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/74bad2eca2aa447ce9ba3893d4f7c338/GettyImages-139387362.jpg","alt":"Trailer dumpster on wheels hitched to truck"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"40ae078a-9785-56b7-a7d2-5bfbbe618c9e","name":"Trailer Dumpsters","slug":"Trailer-Dumpsters"}],"content":"The best way to get rid of large amounts of trash at once is with a dumpster, and when it comes to dumpster rentals, roll-off containers are by far the most popular option offered by disposal companies.
\r\n\r\nBut sometimes you need a dumpster placed in a small or steep driveway, in a narrow alley, or a parking space.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRenting a trailer dumpster might be the best choice for your particular disposal project.
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If you're curious about trailer dumpsters and what they offer in comparison to standard roll-off dumpsters, you've come to the right place.
\r\n\r\n![\"The](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/trailer-dumpster-info_1.png\")
\r\nOne of the best features of a trailer dumpster is that it's surface-friendly.
\r\n\r\nDumpster damage to your driveway is unsightly and an inconvenience that can be avoided altogether with a trailer dumpster.
\r\n\r\nWhile a professional dumpster company should know how to avoid causing damage to your property, some accidents do occasionally occur.
\r\n\r\nDue to the nature of roll-off containers, they are more likely to accidentally crack or chip your cement or asphalt driveway than a trailer dumpster during drop-off and pick-up.
\r\n\r\nRoll-off containers are very heavy, have a flat bottom, and are gently rolled off a dumpster truck during delivery, hence the name \"roll-off dumpster.\"
\r\n\r\nA dumpster trailer, however, is attached to wheels and is transported via hitch, making delivery as easy as backing it into your driveway.
\r\n\r\nAll the weight remains on wheels, so you don't have to worry about the delivery person accidentally dropping a heavy container on your property.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nBecause of the aforementioned rubber wheels, trailer dumpsters are much easier to maneuver than a roll-off container.
\r\n\r\nIf you decide to reposition or move your dumpster after it's already been placed, doing so with a trailer dumpster is quick and easy. You simply reattach the trailer dumpster's hitch to the delivery truck and move as desired.
\r\n\r\nTo reposition a roll-off container, however, the entire dumpster must be properly hoisted back onto the dumpster truck before being delicately unloaded all over again in your desired position or location.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a large property with multiple projects scattered across it, having a trailer dumpster might be the best option for you to move your container to each project location as needed.
\r\n\r\nOr, if you have multiple projects at multiple different locations, being able to keep a trailer dumpster attached to your vehicle so you can easily drive your disposal container from one location to the next is a great way to streamline a number of different cleanup projects.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"trailer](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/trailer-dumpster.png\")
\r\nRoll-off dumpsters are great disposal containers for any project, don't get us wrong, but if your project requires a dumpster to be in and out within a matter of hours or a day, trailer dumpsters may make the most sense.
\r\n\r\nWhile it is certainly possible, it's not common for a roll-off container to be dropped off and picked up on the same day.
\r\n\r\nRoll-off dumpsters have to be delivered with a special truck designed just for the delivery and pickup of dumpsters while a trailer dumpster can be delivered and picked back up by basically any vehicle with a hitch to haul a trailer.
\r\n\r\nAlso, as previously mentioned, if you have multiple projects to get to in a short amount of time, trailer dumpsters allow a faster and easier option to move your container from location to location.
\r\n\r\nThis flexibility allows trailer dumpsters to be picked up and dropped off more easily and more often.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nWhile trailer dumpsters are often the same price as roll-off containers, the flexibility they offer can end up making your project go by more quickly.
\r\n\r\nThey say time is money, so if a trailer dumpster can save you time on your project, you can bet that it will save you money on your project, too.
\r\n\r\nHaving to wait days for a roll-off dumpster to be emptied and returned for the continuation of your project can cause delays that cost you and your crew precious time and valuable money.
\r\n\r\nOne of the best ways to get the best price is to rent a dumpster from a locally-owned company that is reputable, licensed, and insured.
\r\n\r\nLocally-owned dumpsters are almost always less expensive than rentals from large, national chains.
\r\n\r\nIt's very important to make sure that the company you rent from is licensed and insured.
\r\n\r\nAn illegitimate company may offer you a cheaper rental price, but the risks involved are not worth the small savings.
\r\n\r\nFinding reputable dumpster rentals that service your area is quick and easy using Hometown.
\r\n\r\nYou can find services near you, read verified reviews, and request free pricing and availability from as many providers as you would like, easily comparing transparent pricing details and securely booking online.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nThere are different container options when it comes to renting a temporary dumpster. Learn about the benefits of opting for a trailer dumpster and how it might save you time and money on your disposal project.
\r\n","changed":"2025-11-13T18:46:32+00:00"}],"populars":[],"tips":[{"name":"20 Yard Dumpsters","body":"Standard open-top roll-offs are the most common type of 20 yard dumpster. Most feature a door that swings open for easy loading, making it extra convenient to load bulky or heavy items, like furniture, appliances, concrete, and demolition debris. Dumpster trailers are another option that some dumpster rental providers offer. Trailers are a great option when the ground is soft or uneven.
\r\n\r\nStay within your dumpster's weight allowance. The weight capacity will vary depending on who you rent from, but the average weight limit for a 20 yard dumpster is about 3 tons (6,000 lbs). Going over the weight allowance will incur additional charges as high as $100 per ton. A standard rental period is seven days (varies by company). A per-day late fee is applicable for keeping the dumpster longer than your contract covers, so make sure you understand your dumpster rental period to avoid paying extra. The type of waste/debris is important. Some rental companies have rules in place based on the type of debris. The weight allowance may vary depending on the debris you're throwing away. Some companies may not allow you to mix certain debris, like concrete and household trash for example. Some waste is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, hazardous wastes, tires, automotive fluids, and batteries. Many dumpster rental companies recycle. Make it easier for your dumpster rental company (and potentially less expensive for you) by separating recyclables when possible, like concrete, asphalt shingles, dirt, cardboard/paper, and scrap metal.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"ZTERS](\"/static/836c6a00625e14e9f314f60093ba092e/1064329107644bc21a782b2.jpg\"/)
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tThe 20 yard roll-off from Zters is a great choice for a wide range of cleanups, such as renovation, home cleanouts, roofing, or small demolition projects. The 20 yard dumpster measures 22’ x 8’ x 3.5’ (LxWxH) and comes with a 3-ton weight allowance.\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tOver the years, we've built our reputation for personalized service and quality solutions with each and every client. We are dedicated to offering flexible solutions that work for you. Reach out today for your free temporary dumpster quote.\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
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