Just as there are rules pertaining to what you can toss in your curbside trash can, there are also guidelines to follow when it comes to renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nThese rules are in place for environmental reasons as well as local and state regulations related to waste disposal.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAlways discuss the type(s) of debris or waste you’re disposing of with your dumpster rental provider.
\r\n
They’ll help ensure you understand exactly what is and isn't allowed in your dumpster.
\r\n\r\nJump to:
\r\n\r\n![\"what](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/what-can-and-cant-go-in-dumpster.png\")
\r\nMost nonhazardous waste, junk, and debris is permitted in dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nItems commonly allowed in a dumpster include:
\r\n\r\nCouches, tables, chairs—almost all types of furniture are accepted in dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nHowever, in some locations, upholstered furniture and mattresses are not allowed in landfills; and in others, you can throw furniture and mattresses in a dumpster, but it can come with additional fees depending on your local area's regulations.
\r\n\r\nAlways be sure to check with your dumpster rental provider about the types of furniture they allow in their containers.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nRefrigerators, AC units, washers and dryers—a majority of general household appliances are allowed to be thrown in a dumpster, but all hazardous fluids and components, like freon, must be removed first.
\r\n\r\nIf you wish to get rid of a freon-containing appliance, you will need to hire a professional, like an appliance repair specialist or HVAC pro, to remove the refrigerant before disposing of it.
\r\n\r\nNote: There are additional appliance disposal options that could end up saving you quite a bit of money. For example, some local utilities sponsor 'bounty programs' as an incentive to recycle appliances. The program involves allowing a recycler to collect old, inefficient appliances in exchange for a 'bounty.'
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\r\nSimilar to this, EPA also offers discounts towards the purchase of updated ENERGY STAR® qualified models, so this could be something to consider. Find out if your area offers bounty programs by contacting your electricity provider.
Keep reading:
\r\n\r\n\r\nTVs, computers, printers, and other electronics are commonly accepted in most dumpsters, but if you have large quantities of electronics, like in an office cleanout, you will likely be required to recycle them as e-waste.
\r\n\r\nIn those cases, it's common that an additional charge will be applied per item in order to cover recycling fees.
\r\n\r\nIn some areas, local regulations do not allow electronics to be tossed in dumpsters at all, so be sure to check with your dumpster rental provider.
\r\n\r\nDonate or recycle e-waste, like cell phones, tablets, computers, and printers. (Search for an e-waste recycler near you.)
\r\n\r\nDonate working TVs and appliances to Habitat for Humanity or another local charity.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\nTrees, branches, brush, grass, and other green waste are allowed in most dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nHowever, whether or not a dumpster company will accept yard waste depends on your area's regulations.
\r\n\r\nIn some locations, you are limited to the amount of green waste you can send to a landfill, while in others, you can fill a dumpster to its limit.
\r\n\r\nPro Tip: Some companies offer a \"clean-load\" option for dumpsters at a discounted price.
\r\n\r\n\"Clean-loading a dumpster\" means only loading one specific type of recyclable materials into the dumpster, e.g. concrete, yard waste, etc.
\r\n\r\nThe materials are then recycled and diverted from the landfill, so you save the environment and your wallet!
\r\n\r\nBrick, Stone, Concrete, and Asphalt
\r\n\r\nHeavy debris, like concrete, asphalt, and brick, can be thrown in most dumpsters, but due to its weight, some companies require the use of specific dumpsters designated for heavy materials.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about renting a dumpster for concrete.
\r\n\r\nRoofing Shingles
\r\n\r\nAsphalt roofing shingles are another heavy debris that can go in a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nHowever, there is sometimes a fee associated with shingle disposal, so ask the dumpster rental providers you get quotes from about whether or not they charge extra for roofing shingle disposal.
\r\n\r\nFind an asphalt shingle recycler near you.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: How to Estimate Shingle Weight and Save on the Cost of Roof Disposal
\r\n\r\nRenovation Debris
\r\n\r\nDrywall, wooden materials, siding, and other construction and demolition debris can go in dumpsters.
\r\n\r\nWith heavy debris, dumpster weight limits are especially important.
\r\n\r\nIf you go over the amount of weight included in your quoted price, you will have to remove the additional weight or pay overage fees—either of which would cause a serious headache for you.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nToys, curtains, carpeting, old documents, cardboard, and similar non-organic trash can all be put in a dumpster, too.
\r\n\r\nGenerally speaking, you cannot put any type of hazardous materials in your rented dumpster, including wet paint, oil (other liquids), asbestos, sealed tanks/drums, electronics (e-waste), tires and some types of furniture.
\r\n\r\nYou'll find more information below.
\r\n\r\nYou cannot throw paint, paint thinners, lacquers, or wood stains in a dumpster, with the exception of latex paints.
\r\n\r\nIf you have leftover latex paint that can't be reused or recycled, allow the paint to solidify by pouring it into a box with kitty litter or shredded paper.
\r\n\r\nOnce it's hard and dry, toss it in the dumpster.
\r\n\r\nEmpty, dried paint cans can be recycled with other metals in your curbside bin.
\r\n\r\nFind a place to drop off your leftover paint.
\r\n\r\nBecause a majority of landfills in the U.S. do not accept tires, you cannot put tires in a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nHowever, there are various ways to properly dispose of scrap tires.
\r\n\r\nOne option involves taking old tires to your local auto parts store or tire dealership.
\r\n\r\nAnother option includes finding a local recycler who will then convert old tires into asphalt or rubber mulch.
\r\n\r\nAsbestos, pesticides, motor oil and other automotive fluids, propane tanks, household cleaners, ink and resins, contaminated soil or absorbents, and medical waste should never be put in a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nIn most communities, there are scheduled community collection events where people can drop off their hazardous waste for proper disposal.
\r\n\r\nIn some areas, you can also arrange to have a household hazardous waste recycling kit sent directly to your home.
\r\n\r\nThey allow you to conveniently pack up your waste and mail it in for environmentally responsible disposal.
\r\n\r\nTake used motor oil to a local oil change facility for proper recycling
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: How to Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste
\r\n\r\nCar batteries and dry-cell batteries cannot be put in a dumpster because they can leak chemicals that harm the environment.
\r\n\r\nInstead, recycle car batteries by returning them to nearly any store that sells car batteries.
\r\n\r\nSimilarly, drop off old dry-cell batteries, like lithium, AA, and AAA, in designated bins commonly found in stores.
\r\n\r\nMost auto part stores and repair shops will recycle car batteries. Sometimes you can get a deposit for returning it to where you bought it.
\r\n\r\nTo ensure you get the best dumpster rental service for the best deal, reach out to multiple dumpster rental providers to compare quotes.
\r\n\r\nHometown Dumpster Rental is the most convenient place to find the right dumpster rental provider in your area.
\r\n\r\nBrowse the options in your city, read company profiles, see what other customers have to say about their services, and contact providers directly for a quote—all in one easy-to-use location.
\r\n\r\nDepending on the size of your project and the type of debris you have, you may only need a 10 yard or 20 yard, but if your project is bigger or on the heavier side, a 30 yard or 40 yard dumpster is likely your best choice.
\r\n\r\nBe sure to explain your debris as much as possible to each provider you speak to.
\r\n\r\nThey'll be able to help you choose the right dumpster size for your project.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nDumpsters are versatile, but they come with rules. Find out everything you need to know about what can and can't go in a temporary roll-off dumpster to avoid fees.
\r\n","changed":"2022-09-29T20:39:21+00:00"},{"id":"f985e2a0-56a7-5823-8e5d-9722e3c52df6","title":"How to Determine Which Dumpster Rental Quote Is Best","url":"/blog/determine-the-best-dumpster-rental-quote","image":{"path":"/static/9ff140a632db62eaa76b420dc31c77d2/price-estimate.png","alt":"person calculating a price estimate on the computer"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"dd92d707-caa9-53dc-912a-007bbedfac04","name":"Booking a Dumpster Service","slug":"Booking-a-Dumpster-Service"},{"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":"Looking for dumpster rental services in your area but want to make sure you're renting from the right company?
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nGetting 2-3 quotes is always recommended when renting a dumpster or hiring a contractor or company of any kind. This helps to ensure you get the best service for the best price.
\r\n
However, each dumpster rental quote is not the same, so it's important to know what to look out for in order to ensure you know which estimate and which dumpster rental company is the best option for your junk or debris removal project.
\r\n\r\nIn this guide, we'll go over the main things to consider when comparing junk removal quotes—besides cost—to ensure you make the best decision.
\r\n\r\n![\"determine](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/determine-best-dumpster-rental-quote-infographic.png\")
\r\nThe first and main deciding factor that should come into play when renting a dumpster—or hiring any company or contractor for that matter—is whether or not they are licensed and insured to provide this service.
\r\n\r\nEven when you hire a qualified and experienced dumpster rental company, there is still a potential risk for accidents to happen, and you want to be sure that you and your property are protected.
\r\n\r\nFor example, if a crew member is injured during your dumpster drop-off or pick-up, an uninsured company will not have the coverage needed to pay for any damages, and you could end up being stuck paying for their medical bills, workers' compensation, and any potential legal fees.
\r\n\r\nThis is why it's so important to ensure any company you hire to work on your property is qualified, licensed, and insured.
\r\n\r\nIn addition to safety and legal risks, renting a dumpster from an unregistered or unlicensed company can put you at risk of becoming a victim of property damage or theft.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: Why You Should Rent from a Licensed and Insured Dumpster Rental Company
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAnother important factor to consider when paying for dumpster rental services (or any contractor services for that matter) is their reputation with customers.
\r\n\r\nIf a company has bad reviews (or no reviews) from past customers, this may be a red flag warning you to rent from another dumpster rental company.
\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, we collect reviews from verified customers to ensure all reviews on our site are real, and also to assist future customers in finding the right dumpster rental company in their area.
\r\n\r\nLocal friends and family, as well as your neighborhood Facebook group or Nextdoor app, can also be very helpful in learning a local company's reputation.
\r\n\r\nIf several others have had positive experiences renting a dumpster from a certain company, chances are you'll have a positive experience, too.
\r\n\r\nAnother great gauge of a company's level of customer service is their willingness to answer a customer's questions with patience and kindness.
\r\n\r\nIf a dumpster rental company seems impatient or irritated with you at any point, this isn't a sign of great customer service.
\r\n\r\nInstead, look for a company who is patient, responsive, and able to answer your questions without pressuring you in any way.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nA dumpster company could be the best in the business—reliable, efficient, fairly priced, and customer-oriented—but if they can't provide the dumpster size you need when you need it, you'll want to find a company that can.
\r\n
Oftentimes, dumpster rental companies can provide services within a couple days, but during the busier times of year, like spring and summer, it may take them a bit longer to get a dumpster dropped off at your site.
\r\n\r\nIf you're in a hurry to get rid of your junk or you have a project that needs to stay on-schedule, even a minor dumpster delay can cause a domino effect of scheduling issues and become a major headache.
\r\n\r\nGetting multiple quotes from local dumpster rental companies increases the chances of finding a great company with the dumpster availability you need.
\r\n\r\nAt Hometown, we specialize in helping people find qualified dumpster rental companies in their area.
\r\n
\r\nFinding the right dumpster rental company in your area is easy:
Read on:
\r\n\r\nEach dumpster rental quote is not the same, so it's important to know what to look out for when researching companies. Learn the main things to consider when comparing dumpster rental quotes—besides cost—to ensure you make the best decision.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-13T22:13:16+00:00"},{"id":"a1b2024a-4742-5e3b-b840-4257568f1c58","title":"How to Prepare for Dumpster Drop-off","url":"/blog/how-to-prepare-for-dumpster-drop-off","image":{"path":"/static/272a33cb60ace132fa1a93b297032c7f/1dropoff.png","alt":"roll-off container being unloaded by dumpster truck"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"It's a great idea to prep the spot you plan to have the dumpster placed, as it can save time and eliminate stress when the driver shows up for delivery.
\r\n\r\nThis is not a difficult or time-consuming thing to do, and it will increase the likelihood that the entire process goes smoothly.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe dumpster rental preparation process is pretty simple, and it begins when first booking the dumpster over the phone or online.
\r\n
If you know where you want your dumpster to go, like in your driveway or at a job site, explain the location to the dumpster rental providers you speak to and confirm your proposed placement is a viable option.
\r\n\r\nA flat, hard surface is the ideal location for a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nThis would include a concrete or asphalt driveway, parking lot, street, or hard-packed dirt or gravel at a worksite.
\r\n\r\nIdeal conditions aren’t always possible, so it’s best to discuss your dumpster placement with your rental provider prior to delivery.
\r\n\r\nSome of the locations you may not be able to place a dumpster include:
\r\n\r\nSometimes, placement on softer surfaces is possible if the proper prep work is done ahead of time.
\r\n\r\nThis may include placing plywood on the ground, or other similar solutions, to compensate for the less-than-ideal dumpster placement conditions.
\r\n\r\nUltimately, the best way to prepare for dumpster delivery is by making it as easy as possible for the truck driver to complete the drop-off.
\r\n\r\nRemove cars, bikes, kid’s toys, trash cans, or in some cases, fences that may be in the way of the drop-off zone.
\r\n\r\nA typical roll-off truck needs quite a bit of space to unload the dumpster, so keep that in mind when clearing off the driveway or drop-off location.
\r\n\r\nSee the video below to get an idea of what the dumpster drop-off process looks like.
\r\n\r\nClearing out obstructions, as previously mentioned, is one way to reduce the chance of damage to property caused by the roll-off truck or the dumpster itself.
\r\n\r\nThe more maneuvering the driver must do, the greater the risk of damage.
\r\n\r\nAnother effective way to reduce damage to the surface of the driveway, street, or parking lot is to place boards beneath the contact points where the dumpster meets the ground.
\r\n\r\nPlacing plywood or boards beneath the dumpster can greatly reduce the risk of damage to concrete or asphalt caused by the weight of the load.
\r\n\r\nMany dumpster rental companies make efforts to protect your property from damage, but not all, so be sure to ask when booking your dumpster.
\r\n\r\nIf the dumpster company doesn't provide the ground protection (uncommon), put down plywood at the dumpster placement area before the driver arrives to drop it off.
\r\n\r\nIn most cases, dumpsters don't cause any damage, but it doesn't hurt to be prepared.
\r\n\r\nBe cautious when loading concrete, dirt, roofing shingles, or any other heavy debris into a dumpster, as heavier dumpsters are more likely to cause damage.
\r\n\r\nKeep the load below the stated weight limit of the dumpster to minimize risks.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nLearn how to properly plan for dumpster rental delivery and how to save time, money, and headaches with these tips.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-23T02:03:44+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":"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":"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":"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":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/pittsburgh-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"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\n\t\t\t\t\tFull Circle Removal provides full-service dumpster rental, debris removal, and demolition services throughout the New Jersey & Pennsylvania areas. Our services are great for your home...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tThats Gotta Go Dumpsters provides cost-effective, convenient, and market-competitive 20 yard dumpsters rentals that take the pain out of clearing junk in a jiffy. We offer...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
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\n\t\t\t![\"Sourgum](\"/static/8e0e25e60418c095a7ac36b6a25ee20a/976356813632b5a70ec8bf.png\"/)
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