When it comes to renting a dumpster, most people focus on size: 10 yard, 20 yard, 40 yard, and so on. But there’s another crucial factor that’s just as important: weight.
\r\n\r\nEvery dumpster rental comes with an included weight in the cost. If your debris weight exceeds the included weight for your dumpster, you can incur extra charges. By understanding the type of debris you're throwing out as well as roughly how much you have and how much it will weigh, you'll be prepared and confident you're renting the perfect dumpster for you.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhether you're cleaning out your home, tearing off a roof, or tackling a bathroom renovation, the type of debris you're throwing out plays a big role in how much your dumpster will weigh when it's full.
\r\n
Understanding debris weight is easy, and it helps you:
\r\n\r\nWe'll help you understand how much different waste types typically weigh so you can better evaluate a quote from a dumpster service, both the upfront price and any potential additional costs from debris weight.
\r\n\r\nWe'll help you answer the question: Is the included weight on my dumpster quote enough or will I likely have extra charges?
\r\n\r\nWhen estimating the weight of a loaded dumpster, both the type of debris and the dumpster size play a major role. Different materials have different densities, and as a result, a full dumpster of household junk will weigh significantly less than one filled with roofing shingles or concrete.
\r\n\r\nBelow is a general guide to what you can expect based on typical weight ranges.
\r\n\r\nNote: The weight included in a dumpster's price is typically measured in tons. One ton is the equivalent of 2,000 lbs.
\r\nHousehold junk typically includes general trash, furniture, clothes, toys, boxes, light appliances, etc. Weighing only 100-250 lbs per cubic yard, it's relatively lightweight. Even if you fill a large dumpster, you likely won’t go over the weight limit unless you're disposing of heavier items like books, old appliances, or solid wood furniture.
\r\n\r\nTake a look at the table below to get an idea for how much a dumpster will weigh when it's full of household trash. Keep in mind, these estimates are only averages, and your household trash may weigh more or less. The included weight of each dumpster size will also vary from one company to another, so make sure you're aware of how much weight is included in the price before renting.
\r\n\r\n| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tWeight When 50% Full | \r\n\t\t\tWeight When Full | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|---|
| 10 yard | \r\n\t\t\t0.25-0.5 tons | \r\n\t\t\t0.5-1 ton | \r\n\t\t
| 15 yard | \r\n\t\t\t0.5-0.75 tons | \r\n\t\t\t1-1.5 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 20 yard | \r\n\t\t\t0.6-1 ton | \r\n\t\t\t1.25-2 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 30 yard | \r\n\t\t\t0.875-1.25 tons | \r\n\t\t\t1.75-2.5 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 40 yard | \r\n\t\t\t1.25-1.5+ tons | \r\n\t\t\t2.5-3+ tons | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Tip: Household junk is usually the lightest type of debris, but it can still add up, especially if you're tossing heavier items like old couches or a garage full of clutter.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"excavator](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/excavator-by-construction-demolition-debris.png\")
\r\nConstruction and demolition debris (C&D) typically includes drywall, wood, flooring, cabinetry, plaster, concrete, siding, etc. Weighing approximately 250-1,000 lbs per cubic yard, it's one of the debris types that can add up quickly even if the dumpster isn't full. Because of this, a smaller dumpster is typically recommended, if not required, so you avoid exceeding truck hauling limits.
\r\n\r\nIn the table below, you can see how much a dumpster will weigh on average when it's full of construction or demolition debris. Remember that these are averages, and your C&D debris may weigh more or less.
\r\n\r\nThe amount of weight included in the price for each dumpster size can differ depending on the rental company, so it’s important to confirm how much weight is included before you book. Likewise, C&D debris is much heavier than household junk, so always check a dumpster's weight limit before renting too.
\r\n\r\n| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tWeight When 50% Full | \r\n\t\t\tWeight When Full | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|---|
| 10 yard | \r\n\t\t\t0.5-1 ton | \r\n\t\t\t1-2 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 15 yard | \r\n\t\t\t0.75-1.5 tons | \r\n\t\t\t1.5-3 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 20 yard | \r\n\t\t\t1-2 tons | \r\n\t\t\t2-4 tons | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Read more:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe most common roofing shingles are asphalt shingles, which are very dense and heavy. Weighing 250-300 lbs per 100 square feet, the average American shingle roof (1,700 sq ft) weighs an average of 2.125-2.55 tons (4,250-5,100 lbs). Your roof may weigh more or less than these averages depending on its size, how much of the roof decking materials need to be removed, the number of layers, etc.
\r\n\r\nBecause asphalt shingles are so heavy, many rental companies restrict shingle disposal to smaller dumpster sizes to avoid overweight loads.
\r\n\r\n| Dumpster Size | \r\n\t\t\tWeight When 50% Full | \r\n\t\t\tWeight When Full | \r\n\t\t
|---|---|---|
| 10 yard | \r\n\t\t\t0.75-1 ton | \r\n\t\t\t1.5-2 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 15 yard | \r\n\t\t\t1-1.5 tons | \r\n\t\t\t2-3 tons | \r\n\t\t
| 20 yard | \r\n\t\t\t1.5-2 tons | \r\n\t\t\t3-4 tons | \r\n\t\t
\r\n\r\n
Learn more:
\r\n\r\nNow that you have a better idea of what your debris type weighs and roughly how much you have, it's easy to determine whether or not a specific dumpster size and included weight is enough for your project.
\r\n\r\nWhen finding a dumpster on Hometown, it's easy to compare dumpster costs as well as included weights and overage fees.
\r\n![\"dumpster](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/quote-example.png\")
\r\nAs you can see above, each dumpster quote includes:
\r\n\r\nWhen determining which dumpster is right for you, you'll want to consider all of these factors.
\r\n\r\nAsk yourself the following questions...
\r\n\r\nIf you're tossing household junk and trash, the volume of debris you have is typically enough information to know which dumpster size is right for your project. This is because household junk and trash are lightweight and very rarely exceed a dumpster's included weight. However, if you are disposing of heavy furniture, make sure you keep weight in mind as well.
\r\n\r\nIf you are disposing of heavy debris, like C&D debris or roofing shingles, however, you will want to take weight into close consideration. Here's an example...
\r\n\r\nLet's say you have 5 cubic yards of concrete to dispose of. You'll need to consider the weight included in the dumpster price and the cost per extra ton, not just whether or not it will fit inside the dumpster. For example, let's say the company's 10 yard heavy debris dumpster—a low-boy dumpster specifically designed for carrying dense, heavy debris—includes 8 tons of weight for the price of $500. Even if you only have 5 cubic yards of concrete (average weight of 10.125 tons) and it would physically fit inside the 10 yard dumpster, the weight of that amount of concrete will exceed the included weight (8 tons), and incur an additional fee per ton ($100 per ton x 2.125 tons = $212.50 in overage fees).
\r\n\r\nIn this scenario, if you went with the 10 yard dumpster for $500 (including 8 tons of weight), you would end up paying roughly $712.50 including the overage fees. Now, let's say that same company offers a 15 yard dumpster for $550 and 9 tons of weight for the price. You would end up paying $550 base price + $112.50 for going one ton over the included weight = $662.50. In this case, choosing the larger dumpster would save you $50.
\r\n\r\nRegardless of your situation, you should be making sure you choose the dumpster that best matches your actual debris weight, not just the cheapest upfront option.
\r\n\r\nWondering how much a full dumpster weighs? Learn average dumpster weight by debris type and size, so you can avoid overage fees and choose the right dumpster for your project.
\r\n","changed":"2025-07-31T12:48:14+00:00"},{"id":"155d9713-e295-5c42-bfc9-df5b78f5f822","title":"Get the Best Price for Renovation Debris Removal","url":"/blog/get-the-best-price-for-renovation-debris-removal","image":{"path":"/static/9d2f940de341bb84f9270b89eac5898b/renovation.png","alt":"man and woman looking at laptop in a room being renovated"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"04cc94ec-8031-599d-b367-22042ec698df","name":"Construction Debris Removal","slug":"Construction-Debris-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"},{"id":"69819a8e-4e7e-5bc0-a388-5a6b07b6390f","name":"Debris Hauling","slug":"Debris-Hauling"}],"content":"Whether you're renovating your home so that you can enjoy a fresh, new living space, or you're trying to increase your home's value before you sell, there are many aspects to consider before you start tearing your home apart.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAn often overlooked aspect of DIY home renovations is the debris disposal, which can end up being costly without a proper plan in place.
\r\n
There are different debris disposal options available on the market, and Hometown is here to help you explore them all so that you can get the best price for your disposal method of choice.
\r\n\r\n![\"Get](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/best-price-renovation-debris.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nUnless you only have a few small pieces of renovation debris to get rid of, your regular weekly trash service won't be an option, as construction debris isn't allowed to be mixed in with household trash.
\r\n\r\nInstead, you'll have to haul your renovation debris to the landfill facility yourself.
\r\n\r\nIt's important to make sure you have proper gloves and protection when picking up and sorting through renovation debris to prevent bodily injury, as well as the strength and assistance required to lift any heavy pieces, like old appliances or building material.
\r\n\r\nYou'll also want to make sure you have a vehicle appropriate for loading and hauling debris, like a pickup truck or hauling van.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nConsider how far away you're located from the nearest landfill to account for the cost of gas to make one or multiple trips to the landfill, as well as landfill charges in your area.
\r\n
The value of your time should also be taken into consideration, as any DIY project will take up much more of your valuable time than hiring a professional to handle the debris removal for you.
\r\n\r\nThat said, DIY debris disposal will likely be the cheapest way to get rid of renovation debris as long as you live relatively close to a landfill and have the time and labor to spare.
\r\n\r\nIf your renovation was more of a deconstruction project and you were able to maintain the integrity of building materials or old fixtures, you may be able to donate or give them away for free.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services often offer debris removal which can be very convenient for those with busy schedules, limited physical abilities, or a vehicle that can't accommodate the hauling of renovation debris.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are an ideal debris removal option if you have less than 7 cubic yards of debris and the debris is mostly wood, old fixtures, or other non-toxic, relatively lightweight debris.
\r\n\r\nDebris removal services are by far the fastest and easiest way to get rid of renovation debris, but it tends to be more costly due to the all-inclusive nature of the services.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company will send a crew of 1-2 people to arrive to your location, give you a price quote, and if you agree to the price, they'll start loading their vehicle with your material right away.
\r\n\r\nThese services can typically be completed in under an hour unless your project requires multiple vehicles/trips to load the debris.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTo get the best price on full-service debris removal, have all your material piled up in a convenient and easy-access location.
\r\n
For example, having your debris piled up on the first floor will make loading much faster than if the junk removal crew has to navigate flights of stairs.
\r\n\r\nSimilarly, having the debris piled up on the porch or driveway will make it easy for the debris removal workers to drive up, load, and haul away, rather than having to carry the debris hundreds of feet to their vehicle.
\r\n\r\nOne of the biggest factors that impact the cost of junk removal services is the amount of time and labor it takes to complete a job.
\r\n\r\nEliminating the time or work needed to load and haul your debris will likely get you a better price for your debris removal project.
\r\n\r\nIt's also useful to get multiple quotes and use one company's quote as leverage when speaking with their competitors.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nRenting a temporary dumpster for construction material is a popular choice for many homeowners.
\r\n\r\nIf you have 7 or more cubic yards of debris, dumpster rentals tend to be cheaper than junk removal services, though they require more labor on your part.
\r\n\r\nIf you have less than 20 cubic yards of debris, dumpster rentals can be slightly more expensive than hauling the debris to the landfill yourself, but it cuts the time and effort required by you in half.
\r\n\r\nMost dumpster rentals last 5-7 days which allows you and your project helpers to load the renovation debris at a pace that is safe for your health and convenient for your schedule.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend having your dumpster rental delivered to the property on the day you begin renovations so you can load the dumpster as debris is produced rather than waiting until your project is complete to start loading your debris into your disposal container.
\r\n\r\nThis not only helps you maintain a safe, clean working environment, but it eliminates many dangers associated with sorting through large piles of building material that can contain nails and other sharp objects.
\r\n\r\nRoll-off dumpster rentals have a swinging side door(s) that make loading any large or heavy items easier than having to throw it over the top of the dumpster, which can make these types of containers ideal for renovation projects that include the removal of old fixtures, furniture, or appliances.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nGetting multiple quotes is one of the best ways to get the best price for any service, and dumpster rental is no different.
\r\n
When it comes to the dumpster rental industry, locally-owned and operated companies tend to have much more competitive and flexible pricing than their larger, nationwide competitors.
\r\n\r\nIf you're in need of full-service debris removal or a temporary dumpster rental, Hometown can help you get in contact with locally-owned companies in your area for free quotes.
\r\n\r\nBy entering your zip code and answering a few short questions about your debris disposal needs, you'll been shown licensed and insured junk removal and dumpster rental companies that service your area.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, you can read more about each company and the services they offer, as well as read reviews from real customers to get an idea of the quality of the services they provide.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend getting several different quotes to not only compare pricing, but customer service and availability as well.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nAn often overlooked aspect of DIY home renovations is the debris disposal, which can end up being costly without a proper plan in place. Read about the different debris disposal options available on the market so you can get the best price for your disposal method of choice.
\r\n","changed":"2022-07-25T13:45:10+00:00"},{"id":"482a1ad5-0042-575e-b86a-2aa917aa2e4f","title":"What to Expect from Professional Yard Waste Removal Services","url":"/blog/what-to-expect-from-yard-waste-removal-services","image":{"path":"/static/07404fdaac99706f80a86a7f4f263cab/yard-waste.png","alt":"Raking and disposing of fall leaves"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"f39b8b1e-ba97-5f6e-a83c-b6d63423d4ad","name":"Yard Waste Removal","slug":"Yard-Waste-Removal"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"When you have a pile of yard waste that you need hauled away and disposed of, professional junk removal services are a great solution.
\r\n\r\nIf you've never hired these services before, Hometown is here to help answer all your questions so you can finish your yard cleanup project as soon as possible!
\r\n\r\n![\"What](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/yard-waste-info.png\")
\r\nOne of the best ways to get the best price, customer service, and availability that fits your schedule is to get different quotes from local yard waste/junk removal providers.
\r\n\r\nHometown's quote request form allows you to quickly describe your yard waste removal project and send out your quote request to qualified companies in your area.
\r\n\r\nDepending on the size of your yard waste removal project, the companies you speak with may need to come to your location to provide you with an on-site junk removal estimate.
\r\n\r\nSome companies will ask for a photo of your yard waste via text message or email so they can provide you a quote over the phone, but every company and yard waste disposal project is different.
\r\n\r\nWhether you get quotes virtually or in-person, there will never be a charge for a project quote and you are never obligated to hire.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal providers understand that it's common practice for consumers to shop around and should never put pressure on you to hire before you're ready.
\r\n\r\nHowever, if you get an in-person estimate and you like the price they've quoted you, you can choose to hire them on the spot and they'll likely get to work removing your yard waste right away.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: How to Determine Which Junk Removal Quote Is Best
\r\n\r\nOnce you've gotten a handful of quotes from local junk removal companies, compare the information they've given you and choose the service that will best take care of your yard waste removal needs.
\r\n\r\nIt's important to make sure you're getting a good price, but customer service and availability are just as important, so keep that in mind when choosing a junk removal company.
\r\n\r\nOnce you know who you'd like to go with, contact the provider and schedule your yard waste pick-up.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Questions to Ask Junk Removal Companies Before Hiring
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies will send a crew of 1-2 workers to carry your yard waste from your yard to their truck/trailer.
\r\n\r\nIf you have large or heavy pieces, like wood from a fallen tree, they may use dollies or other equipment to help them with their loading.
\r\n\r\nIf your pile of yard waste was piled up on your driveway or sidewalk, they may sweep the area to make sure there is no dirt or debris left behind from your pile.
\r\n\r\nUnless the amount of yard waste is extreme, the removal should be fairly quick and completed within 10-30 minutes.
\r\n\r\nOnce your yard waste is loaded onto the truck or trailer, the junk removal company will provide you with an invoice.
\r\n\r\nOftentimes, they'll take a card or cash on the spot.
\r\n\r\nIn some circumstances, they'll allow you to call into their office to pay your invoice over the phone.
\r\n\r\nBe sure to discuss payment before hiring services so that expectations are clear ahead of time for both parties.
\r\n\r\nAfter your yard waste is loaded and payment is arranged, the pros will then transport your yard waste to a compost center or local yard waste collection site for it to be properly disposed of.
\r\n\r\nSome states allow yard waste to be dumped in landfills, so depending on where you live, that may be the disposal method of choice for the junk removal company you hire.
\r\n\r\nIf you are someone who is environmentally conscious, be sure to ask the different companies you speak with how they intend on disposing of your yard waste.
\r\n\r\nHauling your green waste to the landfill may be the most convenient for them, but there are typically more eco-friendly options available for yard waste.
\r\n\r\nOnce you've paid your invoice and your yard waste is removed, all that is left to do is enjoy your renewed yard.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nWhen you have a pile of yard waste that you need hauled away and disposed of, professional junk removal services are a great solution. In this article, Hometown helps answer all your questions so you can finish your yard cleanup project as soon as possible.
\r\n","changed":"2022-09-29T14:55:42+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Pittsburgh, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/pittsburgh-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Philadelphia, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/Philadelphia-dumpster-rental.html","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"},{"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"}],"tips":[{"name":"20 Yard Dumpsters","body":"20 yard dumpsters are the most commonly rented size container because of their versatility.
\r\n\r\nThey are an economical choice for a variety of situations, like:
\r\n\r\nOne cubic yard is 3 ft x 3 ft x 3 ft. A kitchen stove takes up approximately 1 cubic yard, a couch takes up approximately 3-4 cubic yards, and a refrigerator is about 2 cubic yards in size.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\n\n\t\t\t\t\tPro Disposal is a family-owned and locally operated dumpster rental and waste management company. We pride ourselves on the dependable and highly reputable services that we have been providing to central PA for over 10 years!\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tHugill’s Sanitation is a family owned business offering personal, friendly services for residential and commercial customers in Western and Central PA. We were founded in the 1950s and continue to thrive today! We have a wide selection of dumpsters...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tWingert Roll-Off Service is a small, family-operated crew focused on straightforward dumpster rental and hauling for local homeowners, roofers, and contractors. Most of our work...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t