The Ultimate Guide To Roll Off Dumpster Sizes (2024)
By: Eric Beale, Founder of Beale’s Hauling | February 12, 2024
So you need to rent a dumpster. But as you begin your search, you realize this isn't a one-size-fits-all kind of project. There are so many sizes to choose from—how one earth are you supposed to know which one to pick?
Pick a dumpster that's too small, and you'll wind up spending more money to rent another one. Pick a dumpster that's too big, and you're just tossing money down the dump (pun very much intended).
Whether you're tackling a home renovation project or clearing out your garage, this guide to roll off dumpster sizes has you covered. Be sure to read from top to bottom so you don't miss a thing.
What Is A Roll Off Dumpster?
"Roll off" dumpsters are so named due to their ability to roll off the back of a truck. A roll off dumpster is a large, open-top waste container designed for easy transportation to and from a site.
Unlike standard dumpsters often found behind commercial buildings and emptied on-site by garbage trucks, roll off dumpsters are transported by special roll off trucks.
These trucks lift and roll the dumpsters onto a metal platform at the site—talk about easy placement and removal!
Why Rent A Roll Off Dumpster?
Roll off dumpsters are ideal for projects that generate significant debris.
These special dumpsters come equipped with a swinging door on one end so you can walk in and efficiently load large items or massive quantities of waste.
If you don't rent a roll off dumpster, you'll likely wind up with debris up to your nose before you know it (and your neighbors won't thank you for that!)
The design of roll off dumpsters allows for more straightforward and safer waste disposal than traditional dumpsters. Their construction is designed to withstand the rigors of heavy waste materials like:
construction debris
household junk
yard waste
renovation waste
light demolition waste
broken concrete
metal scraps
old furniture
Roll Off Dumpster Sizes
The size of your dumpster depends on the type and amount of refuse you plan to dispose of. Here's everything you need to know about roll off dumpster sizes to avoid underestimating or overestimating your disposal needs.
10 Yard Dumpster
The 10 yard dumpster is compact and versatile, measuring approximately 14 feet in length, 7.5 feet in width, and 3.5 feet in height. It can comfortably hold up to 10 cubic yards of material—roughly equivalent to three pickup truck loads of debris.
This size is perfect for small-scale projects such as:
minor home renovations
garage cleanouts
small landscaping tasks
heavy materials like concrete, soil, or asphalt
15 Yard Dumpster
The 15 yard dumpster has dimensions of about 16 feet by 7.5 feet by 4.5 feet. It can accommodate up to 15 cubic yards of waste, translating to approximately 4.5 pickup truck loads.
This dumpster is suitable for medium-sized cleanouts, such as:
removing old furniture or carpeting
single room renovation
roof shingle removal
20 Yard Dumpster
A popular choice for a broad range of projects, the 20 yard dumpster measures approximately 22 feet long, 7.5 feet wide, and 4.5 feet high.
Its capacity to hold about 20 cubic yards of debris—or six pickup truck loads—makes it ideal for larger home cleanouts, floor removals, and extensive landscaping work.
It's commonly used for medium-sized renovation and construction projects due to its balance of size and capacity.
30 Yard Dumpster
For major renovation projects and new home construction, the 30 yard dumpster is often the go-to choice. It has dimensions of around 22 feet by 7.5 feet by 6 feet and can hold 30 cubic yards of material, equivalent to nine pickup truck loads.
This size is well-suited for:
significant home additions,
large demolition projects
comprehensive landscaping
yard waste removal efforts
40 Yard Dumpster
The largest commonly available size, the 40 yard dumpster, is designed for the most extensive projects. Measuring 22 feet in length, 7.5 feet in width, and 8 feet in height, it can contain up to 40 cubic yards of debris—about 12 pickup truck loads.
This dumpster is perfect for:
large-scale cleanouts
commercial construction
demolition projects
events or festivals that generate a considerable amount of waste
What Size Roll Off Dumpster Do You Need?
Step 1: Assess Your Project Scope
Begin by evaluating the scale of your project. Are you remodeling a single room or an entire house? Clearing out a small yard or undertaking a large construction project?
Step 2: Identify the Type of Debris
Different projects produce different types of waste. Household cleanouts may result in a mix of furniture, appliances, and general clutter, while construction projects typically generate heavier materials like concrete, wood, and metal.
Step 3: Estimate the Volume of Debris
Try to estimate the volume of your debris in cubic yards. Visualize your debris in terms of pickup truck loads; each pickup truck can usually hold about 2 to 3 cubic yards of waste.
Step 4: Consider Local Regulations and Space Limitations
Check for any local regulations or restrictions on dumpster rentals, including size limitations and permit requirements. Additionally, consider the physical space where the dumpster will be placed.
Roll Off Dumpsters: Frequently Asked Questions
How much do roll off dumpsters cost?
Prices can range from around $200 to $800 for smaller dumpsters (10 to 20 cubic yards) and can go up to $1,000 or more for larger sizes (30 to 40 cubic yards).
What size roll off dumpster should I rent?
For small projects like a garage cleanout or a minor kitchen remodel, a 10 or 15 cubic yard dumpster may suffice. Medium to large projects may require a 20 to 30 cubic yard dumpster. A 40 cubic yard dumpster is often the best choice for very large projects or commercial construction.
How long can I keep my roll off dumpster?
Rental periods for roll off dumpsters typically range from a few days to a few months, with extended rentals available for an additional fee.
Where should I store my roll off dumpster?
Your roll off dumpster should be placed on a flat, hard surface that can support its weight, such as a driveway or a parking lot. Avoid placing dumpsters on soft ground or grass to prevent damage to the surface and ensure the truck can access it for pickup.
What if my dumpster is too small?
You may need to rent a second dumpster or arrange for a swap-out. To avoid this scenario, it's always better to err on the side of renting a slightly larger dumpster than you think you'll need.
Easy Roll Off Dumpster Rental In Columbus, OH
Forget the corporate guys—our competitive pricing, transparent terms, and exceptional customer service make the rental process hassle-free. Located conveniently in Powell, OH, we understand local regulations to ensure your rental experience is compliant and straightforward.
Explore roll off dumpster rentals in Columbus today.
