Dumpster Rentals

RentalHawk helps you rent the right dumpster for your job without the confusion, wasted time, or surprise fees. Whether you are clearing out a garage, remodeling a kitchen, replacing a roof, or managing debris at a construction site, choosing the right container size and planning for pickup can make the difference between a smooth project and a stressful one.

How Dumpster Rental Works

Most dumpster rentals follow a simple process: choose a size based on your debris, schedule delivery, load the container, then schedule pickup. Pricing is typically based on container size, rental period, and included disposal weight. Extra costs may apply if you exceed the included weight, keep the dumpster longer than agreed, or place prohibited materials inside. RentalHawk helps you compare options and book a dumpster that matches your timeline and budget.

Choosing the Right Dumpster Size

Selecting the right size is the most important step. If you choose too small, you may need a second haul. If you choose too large, you pay more than necessary.

10-Yard Dumpsters

Ideal for small cleanouts, garage cleanups, yard debris, and minor renovation projects. A 10-yard dumpster holds roughly 3 pickup truck loads. Good for tight driveways and smaller projects. Rental rates typically range from $250 to $400 for a 7-day rental including disposal.

20-Yard Dumpsters

The most popular size for residential projects. Handles kitchen and bathroom remodels, deck removals, roofing projects, and whole-house cleanouts. Holds about 6 pickup truck loads. Expect to pay $300 to $500 for a 7-day rental.

30-Yard Dumpsters

Best for major remodels, construction debris, and estate cleanouts when volume is high and you want one haul. Holds approximately 9 pickup truck loads. Rates range from $350 to $600 for a 7-day rental.

40-Yard Dumpsters

The largest standard roll-off size, used for large construction, commercial cleanouts, and demolition projects with large lightweight debris. Holds roughly 12 pickup truck loads. Expect to pay $400 to $700 for a 7-day rental.

If you are unsure, RentalHawk can help you size the dumpster based on your project type, number of rooms, and expected material. A quick estimate now can save you from a costly second pickup later.

What You Can (and Cannot) Throw Away

Many everyday materials are acceptable: furniture, wood, drywall, flooring, shingles, and general household junk. However, rules vary by landfill, state, and county. Many areas restrict or require special handling for batteries, paint, chemicals, tires, appliances with refrigerants, and electronics.

For guidance on household hazardous waste, review the EPA information on safe disposal practices. For electronics recycling, see the EPA overview on electronics donation and recycling.

Permits, Placement, and Safety

Most customers place a dumpster in their driveway. If you need street placement, your city may require a permit ($25-$100) and reflective markers or cones. Always keep the dumpster clear of overhead wires and tree branches, and leave room for the delivery truck to safely drop off and pick up the container. Load debris evenly and keep materials below the top edge — overfilled dumpsters can be unsafe to transport.

Factors That Affect Dumpster Rental Cost

• Container size: Larger dumpsters cost more, but the per-cubic-yard price decreases with size — a 40-yard can be cheaper than two 20-yard hauls
• Debris type: Heavy materials (concrete, dirt, roofing) may incur weight overage fees of $40-$75 per ton
• Rental duration: Standard rental is 7 days; extensions typically cost $5-$15 per extra day
• Location: Urban areas with higher landfill fees and operating costs tend to have higher rental rates
• Disposal fees: Most rentals include a weight allowance (2-4 tons); excess weight is charged per ton
• Distance to landfill: Longer haul distances increase the cost

What Size Dumpster Do You Need?

• Garage or basement cleanout: 10-yard dumpster
• Kitchen or bathroom remodel: 20-yard dumpster
• Roof tear-off (single layer, up to 1,500 sq ft): 20-yard dumpster
• Whole-house cleanout or large renovation: 30-yard dumpster
• New construction or demolition: 30 or 40-yard dumpster
• Commercial property cleanout: 40-yard dumpster

Rent vs. Buy: Dumpsters

Purchasing a roll-off dumpster costs $3,000 to $10,000, but you still need a truck to transport it and a disposal arrangement. For nearly all residential and most commercial projects, renting is the practical choice — delivery, pickup, and disposal are all included in the rental price.