What Size Dumpster Do I Need?
A complete guide to choosing the right dumpster size for your project—whether it's a small cleanout or major renovation.
Quick Answer
Most homeowners need a 15-20 yard dumpster for renovation and cleanout projects. A 20-yard dumpster is our most popular size—it handles most residential jobs without being too large for standard driveways.
Dumpster Sizes Explained
Here's a detailed breakdown of each dumpster size, what they can hold, and what projects they're best suited for.
10 Yard Dumpster
Dimensions: 12 feet × 8 feet × 3.5 feet
Capacity: About 3 pickup truck loads
Weight Limit: 2 tons (4,000 lbs)
$350/7 days
Best For:
- Small bathroom or kitchen remodel
- Garage or basement cleanout
- Small deck removal
- 100-150 sq ft roof (1 layer)
- Small landscaping projects
15 Yard Dumpster
Dimensions: 14 feet × 8 feet × 4 feet
Capacity: About 4.5 pickup truck loads
Weight Limit: 2.5 tons (5,000 lbs)
$425/7 days
Best For:
- Kitchen remodel with cabinets
- Flooring removal (up to 1,500 sq ft)
- Large garage cleanout
- Medium deck removal
- Estate cleanout (1-2 rooms)
20 Yard Dumpster
Dimensions: 16 feet × 8 feet × 4.5 feet
Capacity: About 6 pickup truck loads
Weight Limit: 3 tons (6,000 lbs)
$475/7 days
Best For:
- Multi-room renovation
- Large roofing project (2,000+ sq ft)
- Whole house cleanout
- Large deck or fence removal
- Home renovation projects
30 Yard Dumpster
Dimensions: 18 feet × 8 feet × 5.5 feet
Capacity: About 9 pickup truck loads
Weight Limit: 4 tons (8,000 lbs)
$575/7 days
Best For:
- Major home renovation
- New construction cleanup
- Commercial renovation
- Large estate cleanout
- Demolition projects
40 Yard Dumpster
Dimensions: 22 feet × 8 feet × 6 feet
Capacity: About 12 pickup truck loads
Weight Limit: 5 tons (10,000 lbs)
$675/7 days
Best For:
- Large commercial projects
- Full demolition cleanup
- Industrial cleanouts
- Major construction sites
- Multi-unit property cleanouts
Quick Reference: Dumpster Size by Project
Find your project below for a recommended dumpster size
Tips for Choosing the Right Size
When in Doubt, Go Bigger
It's better to have extra space than to need a second dumpster. Upgrading to the next size typically costs less than a second delivery.
Consider Weight, Not Just Volume
Heavy materials like concrete, dirt, and roofing shingles add up fast. A 10-yard dumpster filled with concrete can easily exceed 2 tons.
Check Your Driveway
Larger dumpsters need more space. A 40-yard dumpster is 22 feet long—make sure you have room and won't block traffic or sidewalks.
Ask About Weight Limits
Every dumpster has a weight limit. Going over means overage charges. Ask us about weight limits for your specific project type.
Still Not Sure What Size You Need?
No problem! Call us and describe your project. We'll recommend the right size based on our experience with thousands of similar jobs.