dumpster 101

Dumpster 101: Cost, Rental Process, and Everything Else You Need to Know

It is not too difficult to rent a dumpster for a day or a longer duration. You can make an appointment for delivery for a dumpster rental near you in a matter of minutes.  However, our dumpster 101 guide focuses on the little details that ensure you get maximum benefit without overpaying. We have tried to cover all the things you would want to know before you rent a dumpster for a day.

Our dumpster rental 101 guide covers various dumpster sizes, prices, how to schedule, proper loading instructions, and more—everything you need to know to ensure your rental goes smoothly. But before that, let’s look into who rents dumpsters and what types of jobs they are used for.

Dumpster rentals are standard in the construction industries for roofing, demolition, and renovation jobs. However, they are also trendy among homeowners looking to tackle home cleanups, DIY jobs and more! In fact, dumpsters can be beneficial because they empower homeowners to get inspired, creative, and handy by renovating themselves.

Tip 1: Compare before Renting

Renting a dumpster can be a significant expense, and prices can noticeably vary from one supplier to another. You should get at least two companies to calltol you how much does a dumpster cost to rent. It is wise to inquire about added expenses like overage charges, tipping fees, late fees and fuel surcharges.

Remember that how much does a dumpster cost to rent also depends on the duration for which you need the dumpster. Moreover, you can find companies for whom:

  • You don’t have to pay for the space you don’t use.
  • If you’re not using the entire dumpster, you won’t have to pay for the whole dumpster.

Tip 2: Choose the Right Dumpster Size

Use the guidelines here to find the best size to handle all your debris. Ordering the right size is vital if you want to avoid overage charges. Please note that dimensions and weight limits may vary by location as well as by company.

  • 10 Yard
    Typical Weight Limit: 2-3 tons
    Ideal for: Half-bath remodels, brick patio removal, wall tear-downs
  • 15 Yard
    Typical Weight Limit: 2-3 tons
    Ideal for: Wall or flooring removal, yard debris cleanups, sidewalk repairs
  • 20 Yard
    Typical Weight Limit: 6,000 pounds
    Ideal for: Roof tear-offs, kitchen remodels, full-bath remodels
  • 30 Yard Dumpster
    Typical Weight Limit: 7,000-10,000 pounds
    Ideal for: Basement remodels, home additions, large-scale renovations
  • 40 Yard
    Typical Weight Limit: 10,000-12,000 pounds
    Ideal for: Commercial development, demolition, flipping a home

How to Rent a Garbage Dumpster after Size and Price are Finalized

Knowing how to rent a garbage dumpster is pretty simple once you have a clear idea of  where to rent a dumpster and the right size you need. All you have to do is call your chosen dumpster company and schedule a delivery. It doesn’t matter where you rent a dumpster because once you are finished loading it with junk, you can easily schedule a pickup time too. But there are a few thing for which you should be prepared.

  1. Your dumpster can be removed at any time throughout the day.
  2. Most of the time, dumpster pickup and delivery routes are based on fuel efficiency.

Tip 3: Know What Not to Dump

Following is a list of items that are a big no for most dumpster companies. For details, it always helps to talk to the professionals before you rent.

  • Adhesives
  • Asbestos
  • Contaminated Soils and Absorbents
  • Hazardous Materials
  • Household Cleaning Fluids
  • Hot water tanks
  • Ink and resins
  • Medical Infectious Waste
  • Non-alkaline batteries
  • Oils, Fuels, and Propane Tanks
  • Undrained appliances
  • Paint and Lacquers
  • Whole tires

Waste Management has affordable pricing, and you can rent a dumpster of various sizes depending on your specific requirements. But it always helps to go prepared if you have never rented one before.