It's something that we at Hometown recommend often: If you're in doubt when deciding which size dumpster to rent, we recommend choosing the larger one.
\r\n\r\nRenting a larger dumpster usually costs no more than $50-$100, but running out of room in the smaller dumpster and having to rent a second dumpster to get rid of all your waste can end up costing you anywhere from $250-$750 on average.
\r\n\r\nEven with this rule of thumb in mind, situations can arise where the dumpster you rented isn't big enough to accommodate all of your debris.
\r\n\r\nIf you run out of room in your dumpster rental and still have junk/garbage/debris to dispose of, there are several removal options available.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/leftover-infographic_0.png\")
\r\nCost
\r\n\r\nIf you have 5+ yards of debris left over, renting an additional dumpster is the most efficient strategy.
\r\n\r\nOftentimes, the dumpster company will haul your dumpster to the landfill to be emptied and then return it back to you to be refilled.
\r\n\r\nThe rental process is quick, and a dumpster can accommodate a large capacity of waste or debris.
\r\n\r\nIdeally, you’d want to plan ahead and rent a dumpster that’s big enough to handle all your debris in one trip, but estimating the amount of debris from a project is not an exact science, so a second dumpster makes sense in cases where you’ve greatly underestimated it.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nCost
\r\n\r\nIf a trailer or truck is available, hauling the excess to the local landfill yourself is a valid option.
\r\n\r\nThis does require some extra effort and a lot more time, but it can be a very cost-effective disposal method.
\r\n\r\nThis strategy is best for small amounts of waste or debris, as multiple trips to the landfill can take up quite a bit of time, incurs additional fees, and is twice as much legwork for you.
\r\n\r\nLandfill dump fees vary by location and type of debris. Some cities have recycling rules for certain types of debris, such as concrete or roofing shingles.
\r\n\r\nCheck with your city to ensure you follow all laws.
\r\n\r\nRelated reading:
\r\n\r\nCost: Varies greatly depending on type, volume, and weight of waste, generally starts at $150 and goes up from there
\r\n\r\nHiring junk removal services is the easiest and usually the fastest way to get rid of your leftover debris, junk, or yard waste.
\r\n\r\nWhen you hire a junk removal provider, they come to your job site, load up your waste, and haul it to the nearest landfill or recycling facility.
\r\n\r\nAll of the heavy lifting, loading, and manual labor is left to the pros so that you can focus on more important aspects of your project.
\r\n\r\nSome companies will allow you to send them photos or video so that they can quote you a price over the phone or via email, while others will need to send one or two crew members over to do a walk through to provide an in-person estimate.
\r\n\r\nGetting multiple quotes allows you to compare pricing, availability, and the type of customer service you can expect from the company you hire.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to get multiple quotes from locally-owned and operated junk removal and dumpster rental providers that service your area.
\r\n\r\nEnter your zip code, answer a few short questions about your waste removal, and you'll be given up to 3 different quotes to compare and ultimately choose the best service for your cleanup.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nCost: $40+ per yard
\r\n\r\nYour weekly trash hauling company may offer a “special wastes” or bulky item pickup option for some types of waste or debris.
\r\n\r\nThere are additional fees on top of your regular weekly trash service for this type of pick-up.
\r\n\r\nGet in touch with your municipal waste service to learn more about what they will accept and when.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCost: FREE
\r\n\r\nThis is a viable option for gently used goods but would not work for general wastes, damaged items, or most types of construction wastes.
\r\n\r\nDonating your materials or giving them away for free is a great option for undamaged furniture, reusable lumber, kid’s toys, home decor, and more.
\r\n\r\nYou can drop off your gently used items at local restore stores (like Goodwill) or list items for free curbside pickup online (like Facebook Marketplace).
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCost: Negotiable
\r\n\r\nThis option may not be available very often, but it’s worth a try if one of your neighbors is in the middle of a project or about to start one.
\r\n\r\nSharing a dumpster can cut your costs in half, or more.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nLearn about the easiest ways to dispose of leftover debris following a home project, cleanout, or other disposal job. Compare the pros, cons, and costs of each disposal method when you have more garbage than your dumpster will allow.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-13T21:11:25+00:00"},{"id":"9bc07d5a-30b4-5913-9d83-516fb8a3e880","title":"Is the Bagster a Good Deal or Should I Rent a Dumpster?","url":"/blog/is-bagster-a-good-deal","image":{"path":"/static/1d59e2e7fa78da2421d23f9b1462fd3e/bagster-cost.png","alt":"Full bagster sitting by curb"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"b6b1c3aa-d203-5c85-a336-698781467625","name":"Dumpster Bags","slug":"Dumpster-Bags"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"}],"content":"Most homeowners and business owners know what it's like to have junk here and there that gets set aside to be handled later, only to have the pile grow and grow.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen you get sick of looking at that pile of junk sitting in your garage, basement, or attic, two of the most affordable solutions are renting a dumpster or buying a bag dumpster.
\r\n
This guide is designed to help you determine whether buying a bag-style dumpster is the best deal for your specific debris disposal project or if renting a dumpster from a local provider is the better, more cost-effective option.
\r\n\r\n![\"which](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/is-bagster-a-good-deal-infographic.png\")
\r\nThe Bagster bag itself costs roughly $30 regardless of where you live, and you can buy one online via Amazon or in-person at your local Home Depot, Lowe's, Target, etc. The upfront cost of a bag-style dumpster is inexpensive and consistent, but the cost of pick-up is more costly and can vary quite a bit depending on your location.
\r\n\r\nBagster pick-up costs range from $120-$300, making the total cost to use a Bagster $150-$350, or $50-$117 per cubic yard.
\r\n\r\nBagster pick-up costs are all-inclusive, meaning whether you fill your bag completely or halfway, the pick-up fee will be the same (as long as the load is 3,300 lbs or less).
\r\n\r\nFor most general household junk and random furniture, you can fill the entire 3 yard bag while remaining within the weight restrictions of the bag and the truck that picks it up.
\r\n\r\nHowever, for heavy debris disposal, like concrete, brick, or soil, you are limited to filling the bag 1/3 of the way, or one cubic yard's worth of debris. Bagsters can be a costly disposal choice for heavy debris when you have more than a single cubic yard of it.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\nA 10 yard dumpster typically costs slightly more than a dumpster bag, but it holds more than 3x more debris and usually has less restrictions. With that said, it is possible to find 10 yard dumpsters that cost less than Bagsters in certain areas with certain providers.
\r\n\r\nOn average, 10 yard dumpsters cost $250-$450, or $25-$45 per cubic yard.
\r\n\r\nThere are as number of factors that affect dumpster pricing:
\r\n\r\nLike the prices for Bagster pick-up, dumpster rental prices fluctuate from one town to the next.
\r\n\r\nThe rental period included with a dumpster's price varies by hauler, but 7-14 days is common. If you need your dumpster for longer, this can be arranged with the dumpster rental company ahead of time. (They often charge a per-day or per-week fee on top of the normal cost.)
\r\n\r\nWith such a wide price range for dumpster rental across the country, the best way to find out what a fair price is in your area is to get multiple dumpster rental quotes from local providers.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\n![\"dumpster](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/dumpster-with-bricks.png\")
\r\nComparing the cost of a Bagster and regular dumpster rental is not like comparing apples to apples because a 10 yard roll-off dumpster holds 3x more debris than the Bagster.
\r\n\r\nThe Bagster costs $150-$350 for 3 yards or less, making a $250-$450 10 yard dumpster rental much less expensive per cubic yard.
\r\n\r\nFor many parts of the country, a 10 yard roll-off is the smallest dumpster available to rent, so this comparison represents the real life options available to most people with relatively small-scale disposal needs.
\r\n\r\nTo truly compare the cost of a Bagster vs a dumpster rental in your area...
\r\n\r\nHometown can help you find local dumpster rental services, read customer reviews, and reach out to as many providers as you'd like to compare each company's price.
\r\n\r\nWaste Management makes it easy to see how much Bagster collection would cost in your area.
\r\n\r\nAs previously mentioned, the average cost of a Bagster per cubic yard is $50-$117 and the average cost of a 10 yard dumpster rental is $25-$45 per cubic yard, making traditional dumpster rental the better deal.
\r\n\r\nOnce you know exactly what the price is for dumpster rental and Bagster pick-up in your area, you'll be able to have a clear picture of which dumpster option is the best choice for you.
\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nMain image via One Project Closer
\r\n","teaser":"When you get sick of looking at that pile of junk sitting in your garage, basement, or attic, two of the most affordable solutions are renting a dumpster or buying a bag dumpster. Find out which option is the best deal.
\r\n","changed":"2023-06-26T20:04:34+00:00"},{"id":"49a0a7be-17fc-5f79-b81b-3a677d69d8a7","title":"The Ultimate Guide to Dumpster Sizes","url":"/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-dumpster-sizes","image":{"path":"/static/5ec60b6d9b499b7c3ee910e41242f32a/dumpster-rental-sizes.jpg","alt":"dumpster truck placing an empty red dumpster on the ground"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"e814d78d-e3c3-5606-bb65-731daf3cd048","name":"Dumpster Sizes","slug":"Dumpster-Sizes"},{"id":"b001adc0-1fd8-533a-ad57-be02a4846eff","name":"Roll Off Dumpsters","slug":"Roll-Off-Dumpsters"},{"id":"eaa330a8-0d72-5067-8dcf-6c77df0afbab","name":"Temporary Dumpster Rental","slug":"Temporary-Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"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.
\r\n
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
\r\n\r\n
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.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
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"}],"populars":[{"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":"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":"Allentown, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/dumpsters-allentown.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":"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":"Philadelphia, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/Philadelphia-dumpster-rental.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"20 Yard Dumpsters","body":"Most 20 yard roll-offs are big enough and strong enough to hold as much as 10+ tons of debris, but dumpster rental companies almost never allow this.
\r\n\r\nThere are 3 main reasons for this:
\r\n\r\nThe truck that picks up the dumpster cannot lift or haul that much weight.
\r\n\tYour city/county’s weight limit restrictions for truck hauling may prohibit it.
\r\n\tDumpster rental companies are charged a per-ton rate at the landfill, and dumpster rental costs would be much higher if there were no customer weight limits.
\r\n\tThe average 20 yard dumpster weight limit is 3-4 tons, or 6,000-8,000 lbs. To determine how much you will be able to put in your 20 yard dumpster, you’ll need to determine your specific dumpster’s weight allowance. Each dumpster rental provider will offer a different weight allowance for the rental price they quote you, so make sure you reach out to multiple providers to get the best price. Once you know how much weight is included in your dumpster quote, you can estimate the approximate weight of the junk or debris you need to put into the dumpster. Local dumpster rental companies are pros at estimating how much debris weighs, and they will be able to help you choose the perfect dumpster for your needs.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
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\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tPrime Services, LLC is a well-established provider of several key outdoor services, including roll-off dumpster rental. We carry four container capacities, and our 20 cubic yard...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tVeteran-owned and operated, RK Dumpster Rental LLC provides clean dumpsters that range from 15 to 20 yards in size, or 11-14 feet in length, for your residential and small commercial remodeling projects, cleanouts, house flips, estate sales, and more. We put your...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tC&R Container Service can tackle ALL your tough jobs. With over 28 years in the industry, you can trust our quality dumpsters for a variety of cleanup projects, like C&D debris, yard waste, household junk, and everything in between. \n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tA+ Dumpster Solutions LLC has been providing reliable and prompt waste removal services for over 20 years! We offer a versatile range of roll-off containers, including 10, 12, 15, 16, 20,...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tMarki Roll-Off Container, Inc. is dedicated to making your dumpster and hauling needs simple and efficient across Northeastern Pennsylvania, serving Monroe, Pike, Lehigh, Carbon, and...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tAccurate Landscaping, LLC in Cresco, PA serves the Pocono region with practical dumpster rental and full‑service junk removal solutions for both homeowners and small...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
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