When you have a large cleanup project, you might wonder if you'd be better off renting a dumpster or hauling the items to the landfill yourself.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCutting costs as much as possible is important, but there are many other factors to consider regarding bulk DIY disposal and renting a large trash container.
\r\n
We'll go over several considerations to help you determine which method is the most cost-efficient and time-efficient for your particular project.
\r\n\r\n![\"Infographic](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/dumpster-or-landfill-infographic_4.png\")
\r\nSince time is money, how much time you want to spend on your disposal project needs to be seriously considered.
\r\n\r\nIf you're in the middle of a move or renovation, or if you have a busy career or home life, paying a little more upfront could save you hours of strenuous labor which can be invaluable to many.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDumping at landfills isn't free, and neither is the fuel it takes to get there.
\r\n
When you also consider the amount of time it takes to travel roundtrip to the nearest landfill and how long you may have to wait in line once you're there, dumpster rental is the better option when time plays a vital role in your decision.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you don't have a vehicle that allows you to haul your junk or trash in one load, consider how many trips it will take or how much it will cost to rent a larger vehicle or trailer.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you, a family member, or friend have a pickup truck, box truck, or a hitch and trailer, you may be a good candidate to haul your junk to the landfill yourself.
\r\n
For cleanup projects with large amounts of material, a dumpster rental may be a better option.
\r\n\r\nA standard pickup truck bed has roughly 2.5 cubic yards of loading capacity while standard roll-off dumpsters come in a variety of sizes, with the most popular for residential projects being 10-20 cubic yards.
\r\n\r\nThis infographic will help you visualize the loading capacity of each dumpster size compared to pickup trucks.
\r\n![\"Infographic](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/cchoose-the-right-dumpster-size-infographic.png\")
\r\nThe average nationwide cost of a 10 yard dumpster is around $250-$450, while a 20 yard dumpster falls around $350-$550 for a standard rental period of 3-7 days.
\r\n\r\nHow much you'll pay for a dumpster rental in your area could be more or less depending on the cost of living and landfill fees in your area, the overhead fee of the company you hire, how much your material weighs, and more.
\r\n\r\nThe average cost to dispose of one pickup truck of material is around $40-$60, plus the cost of gas and your time.
\r\n\r\nWhen time isn't a consideration and you have a project that only requires 1-4 round trips to the landfill, DIY hauling could be the better choice.
\r\n\r\nProjects that produce more than that are a better candidate for a dumpster rental.
\r\n\r\nWatch our video below to learn how to get the best price for a dumpster rental.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Cost of Hauling Waste Yourself vs Renting a Dumpster
\r\n\r\nAnother option to get rid of your unwanted items or debris is to hire a junk removal company to do the loading and hauling for you.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe all-inclusive nature of junk removal services can make them more expensive when it comes to large amounts of trash to remove, but they're a great option when you have less than 7 cubic yards of material to get rid of.
\r\n
Junk removal services have minimum fees that start around $75-$100 for the smallest removals and go up from there.
\r\n\r\nThe best way to get the best price for dumpster rental or junk removal services is to:
\r\n\r\nLuckily, Hometown makes getting multiple quotes from locally-owned and operated companies fast and simple.
\r\n\r\nWe publish licensed and insured junk removal and dumpster rental companies throughout the U.S. to help local consumers easily find and contact small disposal companies in their area.
\r\n\r\nGetting multiple quotes not only ensures you pay a competitive price for your project, but it helps you find a company with quality customer service and the availability you require.
\r\n\r\nGet started on your free quote request by clicking the link below.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nFind out if you'd be better off renting a dumpster or hauling the items to the landfill yourself. Cutting costs as much as possible is important, but there are many other factors to consider. We'll help you determine which method is the most cost-efficient and time-efficient for your particular project.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-13T19:32:47+00:00"},{"id":"e828cef2-0d23-5daf-9c0e-7651fe59cdae","title":"How to Get Rid of Old Appliances","url":"/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-old-appliances","image":{"path":"/static/b941b8fcc4dccfe6f356bb9128414f05/old-appliances.jpg","alt":"old white appliances side-by-side"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"a9043ad0-7b48-5b76-ac8b-67f7b806691f","name":"Appliance Removal","slug":"Appliance-Removal"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Outdated or broken appliances take up valuable space and can be difficult to dispose of safely. Whether you’re replacing a refrigerator, upgrading a washer and dryer, or getting rid of a broken dishwasher, every homeowner eventually needs appliance removal and disposal.
\r\n\r\nThe good news: you have several legal, affordable, and eco-friendly ways to remove appliances, including recycling programs, junk removal services, power-company rebates, and local drop-off options.
\r\n\r\nThis guide explains the best appliance removal methods, costs, and how to find local appliance removal near you.
\r\n\r\nMost states and cities have regulations requiring special handling of appliances that contain:
\r\n\r\nThese appliances cannot be thrown out with regular household trash.
\r\n\r\nBefore disposing of any appliance:
\r\n\r\nProper disposal helps avoid fines and ensures refrigerants are removed safely.
\r\n\r\nFor most people, hiring a junk removal company is the easiest and quickest way to get rid of an appliance.
\r\n\r\nHere’s how it works:
\r\n\r\nTypical cost: $100-$150+ per appliance
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies handle the heavy lifting, the safe and secure hauling, as well as the legal and eco-friendly disposal. This is ideal for items like refrigerators, washers, dryers, or ovens.
\r\n\r\nIf the appliance still works, consider giving it a second life:
\r\n\r\nSome charities provide free or low-cost pickup, though availability varies by region.
\r\n\r\nMany cities offer “appliance bounty” or recycling programs that provide:
\r\n\r\nCheck your municipal waste website or the EPA’s recycling resources for details.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a truck and the appliance is manageable, you can bring it to a landfill or recycling center.
\r\n\r\nBe aware of:
\r\n\r\nOften, hiring a removal service is easier and safer.
\r\n\r\nAppliances contain recoverable metals. Scrap yards may pay:
\r\n\r\nPrices vary by market. You’ll need to transport the appliance yourself.
\r\n\r\nWhen you buy a new appliance, many stores offer removal of your old one.
\r\n\r\nExample: Home Depot usually charges around $25 per appliance.
\r\n\r\nPower companies may also offer:
\r\n\r\nIf you’re cleaning out a home or replacing several appliances, these methods work best:
\r\n\r\nThis is a great option for getting rid of multiple appliances and other bulky items quickly, all at once, and with little hassle.
\r\n\r\nMost dumpster companies will take appliances but keep in mind, there may be guidelines to follow. First, make sure the dumpster rental provider allows the appliances you need to get rid of, especially those with refrigerants or toxic foam insulation.
\r\n\r\nFor reference, a 10 yard dumpster will hold the equivalent of about 10 standard-size residential stoves. (A typical stove measures approximately 3 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft, which is 1 cubic yard.)
\r\n![\"What](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/10-yard-dumpster-capacity.jpg\")
\r\nLearn more: Cost of Hauling Waste Yourself vs Renting a Dumpster
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies can handle:
\r\n\r\nTypical cost: $200-$400+ for multiple appliances
\r\n\r\nPrice varies based on:
\r\n\r\nThe average cost to remove an appliance is $100-$150 per item, but prices vary based on appliance type, size, location, and whether refrigerants must be removed. If you’re disposing of multiple appliances or large kitchen sets, expect $200-$450+ for bundled pickup.
\r\n\r\nBelow is a detailed breakdown to help you estimate appliance disposal prices near you.
\r\n\r\n| Appliance Type | \r\n\t\t\tTypical Removal Cost | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|
| Refrigerator / Freezer | \r\n\t\t\t$120-$180 | \r\n\t\t
| Washing Machine | \r\n\t\t\t$90-$140 | \r\n\t\t
| Dryer | \r\n\t\t\t$80-$130 | \r\n\t\t
| Dishwasher | \r\n\t\t\t$75-$120 | \r\n\t\t
| Stove / Oven | \r\n\t\t\t$90-$150 | \r\n\t\t
| Microwave | \r\n\t\t\t$40-$70 | \r\n\t\t
| Air Conditioner | \r\n\t\t\t$100-$150 | \r\n\t\t
| Water Heater | \r\n\t\t\t$100-$160 | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Removal companies price services based on several factors:
\r\n\r\nIf you’re trying to save money, these options can significantly reduce your total cost:
\r\n\r\nThere may be free options available in your area, like:
\r\n\r\nThese can reduce the cost to $0 if the program applies in your area but may require hauling the appliances yourself and timing the disposal/donation properly.
\r\n\r\nIf you’re removing an entire set, like a refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, washer, and dryer together, many companies will offer package pricing. For example, here are the average costs to haul away multiple appliances:
\r\n\r\nWith multiple appliances, it's often cheaper to hire a junk removal company to remove them for you than transporting them each yourself.
\r\n\r\nIf you want the lowest appliance removal cost, here are our top tips:
\r\n\r\nLocal haulers often beat national brands by 15-30%, especially for single-item pickups.
\r\n\r\nTo locate appliance pickup services in your area:
\r\n\r\nLocal haulers often offer:
\r\n\r\nMost single appliances cost $100-$150 to remove, with multiple appliance removal costing $200-$400+ on average.
\r\n\r\nYes, usually for about $25 per appliance.
\r\n\r\nSometimes. Power companies may offer free refrigerator or freezer pickup. Some charities also pick up working appliances at no cost.
\r\n\r\nUsually no. Appliances with refrigerants or hazardous components require special disposal.
\r\n\r\nOptions include:
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nNeed to get rid of old appliances? Compare legal disposal methods, junk removal costs, recycling programs, and how to find local appliance removal services.
\r\n","changed":"2025-12-08T16:04:21+00:00"},{"id":"6055aac2-a333-5729-b8ef-79b7d180f895","title":"Tips for Handling Estate Cleanouts Quickly and Stress Free","url":"/tips-for-quick-stress-free-estate-cleanout","image":{"path":"/static/618c616b314dd2772790bba33d506207/estate-cleanout-planning.png","alt":"mature couple going over documents in kitchen"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"68ebf442-93d0-56cf-9891-e7a9d9bf7874","name":"Estate Cleanout","slug":"Estate-Cleanout"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"04fd2ebe-e793-5a68-9f65-b5be6a2552ea","name":"Household Junk Dumpsters","slug":"Household-Junk-Dumpsters"}],"content":"Estate cleanouts often take place during a sad and stressful time, whether after a loved one passes away or going through a divorce, which is why making it as smooth of a process as possible is so important.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHometown can help ensure your estate cleanout project goes smoothly and gets completed with minimal stress.
\r\n
![\"estate](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/estate-cleanout-tips-infographic_0.png\")
\r\nOne of the more important parts of the estate cleanout process is locating and organizing the most important items first...
\r\n\r\nYou will need to locate the following documents:
\r\n\r\nTypically, the probate/estate lawyer or divorce lawyer will help you through the process and advise on any documents they need.
\r\n\r\nAny items and assets that are in the decedent's sole name, not payable-on-death, don’t have beneficiary designations, or are left out of a Living Trust are subject to probate.
\r\n\r\nThese assets can include:
\r\n\r\nHousehold items and assets, like furniture, clothing, jewelry, artwork etc., typically don't have much monetary value, but they can have immense sentimental value.
\r\n\r\nIn most cases, the executor of the estate is responsible for distributing such assets accordingly.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nEstate cleanouts are never a fun project and usually are the result of a very sad and stressful moment in one’s life.
\r\n\r\nWhether you’re cleaning out the estate of a deceased family member, getting a divorce, or you are a landlord dealing with the eviction of a tenant, junk removal services are a great option.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are a fantastic way to minimize stress, increase efficiency, and lighten your load.
\r\n
Hiring a junk removal company allows you to forget about the taxing, manual labor involved in an estate cleanout and allows you to direct your focus to more important matters, like selling valuable items from the estate, dealing with legal matters, or grieving with your family.
\r\n\r\nExperienced junk removal companies, or estate cleanout services, understand that this is a vulnerable time for you and can offer as much, or as little, assistance as you deem necessary.
\r\n\r\nThey have the ability to empty out a large home full of unwanted items, donate salvageable items to local charities, recycle items that are accepted in local recycling programs, and dispose of the rest.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find local junk removal companies in your area, read customer reviews, request quotes from as many companies as you'd like, and ensure you get great services for a fair price.
\r\n\r\n\r\n
Estate cleanouts often take place during a sad and stressful time, which is why making it as smooth of a process as possible is so important. Ensure your estate cleanout project goes smoothly and gets completed with minimal stress with these tips.
\r\n","changed":"2023-01-19T16:42:05+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Philadelphia, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-philadelphia-pa","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Pittsburgh, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/Pittsburgh-dumpster-rental.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/allentown-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-allentown-pa","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/dumpsters-allentown.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Pittsburgh, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-pittsburgh-pa","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Roll Off Dumpsters","body":"Generally, the bigger the container, the more weight you are allowed.
\r\n\r\nHere are some rough estimates:
\r\n\r\nRead more: The Ultimate Guide to Dumpster Sizes
\r\n\r\nSome rental providers offer unlimited weight with each rental, however, you are not allowed to overload the dumpster beyond a certain point.
\r\n\r\nFor example, there may be a “fill line” painted on the inside of the container you must keep the debris level below.
\r\n\r\nOther rental providers charge you almost exclusively by weight rather than charging you a base rate + including a weight allowance.
\r\n\r\nThis is an affordable choice if your debris is lightweight, such as lumber or household trash.
\r\n\r\nThis may not always be cost-effective for heavy debris, such as concrete or roofing shingles.
\r\n","place":null,"code":"roll-off-dumpsters"}],"related":[{"title":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-east-hickory-pa"},{"title":"Junk - Clean-up or Removal","url":"pennsylvania/junk-removal-east-hickory-pa"}],"bread":{"title":"Dumpster rental","url":"pennsylvania/dumpster-rental-east-hickory-pa"},"modal_project_types":[{"name":"Cleanout an Interior Space","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":542,"label":"Cleanout - Basement","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":543,"label":"Cleanout - Commercial","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":544,"label":"Cleanout - Estate","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":545,"label":"Cleanout - Garage","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":546,"label":"Cleanout - Hoarding","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Cleanup an Exterior Area","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":547,"label":"Cleanup - Storm Recovery","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":557,"label":"Trash Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":558,"label":"Yard Waste Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Construction & Demolition","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":548,"label":"Construction Debris Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":552,"label":"Light Demolition","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Large Item Removal","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":540,"label":"Appliance Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":541,"label":"Carpet Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":550,"label":"Furniture Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":553,"label":"Mattress Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":554,"label":"Refrigerator Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]}],"codes":[{"name":"10 Yard Dumpster","code":"10-yard-dumpster","paths":{"name":"10_Yard_Dumpster","code":"10-yard-dumpster"}},{"name":"20 Yard Dumpster","code":"20-yard-dumpster","paths":{"name":"20_Yard_Dumpster","code":"20-yard-dumpster"}},{"name":"Construction Dumpster","code":"construction-dumpster","paths":{"name":"Construction_Dumpster","code":"construction-dumpster"}},{"name":"Roll Off - Dumpsters for Rent","code":"roll-off-dumpsters","paths":{"name":"Roll_Off_Dumpsters_for_Rent","code":"roll-off-dumpsters"}}],"seo_desc":[{"name":"30 Yard Dumpsters","code":"roll-off-dumpsters","kg_homepage_seo_desc":null,"kg_kpp_seo_desc":null,"kg_seo_label":null,"kg_state_seo_desc":null,"kg_panel_page_seo_desc":"Get the best deal on a 30-yard dumpster in PLACE_NAME. Compare local prices on large dumpsters and book online, hassle-free with Hometown!"}],"pros":"32498, 38803","profiles":[[{"id":"32498"},{"id":"38803"}]],"code":"roll-off-dumpsters","env":{"domain":"https://www.hometowndumpsterrental.com","site":"dumpster","service":"https://api.bookable.com","build":"ppprolloff"},"cards":{"32498":"\n\t\t\t\t\t716 Southern Tier Dumpsters is a young, hard working, family-owned dumpster rental company that also offers junk removal in and around Randolph, NY. Speak with a...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tEnviroServe is a nationwide provider of essential, eco-conscious environmental solutions for industrial waste and environmental incidents. We offer expert waste handling, processing, recycling, and disposal...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
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