What Could Go Wrong If I Choose the Wrong Dumpster Size?

Dumpster full of trash sitting in driveway

Without the right information, choosing the wrong dumpster size for your project is an easy mistake to make—it can also be an expensive one. We’ll walk you through the repercussions of choosing a dumpster that’s too small, as well as some tips for how to avoid this.

Comprehending Dumpster Dimensions
Standard roll-off dumpsters are sized by cubic yards, which is a measure of the volume of debris they can hold. One cubic yard is best described as a cube of space that is three feet tall, three feet wide, and three feet long. An easy object for comparison is a standard oven, so the number of cubic yards would roughly amount to the number of ovens you could fit into a dumpster.

Estimating the right dumpster size for your project may still be difficult if you’re not a pro. If you’re not sure about the amount of waste your project is likely to yield, get in touch with us, and we’ll help you make a more educated guess. If you’re working with a roofer or general contractor, they should be able to provide some guidance as well.

If Your Dumpster is Too Small
There are a few things that will increase the cost of your dumpster rental: overfilling your dumpster and requiring the hauler to make multiple trips. Both issues can result from selecting a dumpster that’s too small for your needs. To make sure your dumpster is ready to be safely hauled away in compliance with the law, its contents can’t go past the brim. If your local provider comes to haul your dumpster away and it’s too full, you may be charged for the overage, or you may be charged for an extra drive to the landfill.

If Your Dumpster is Too Large
Choosing a dumpster that’s bigger than necessary can have consequences as well. Carefully measure the area where you plan to place your dumpster to make sure you know the size limitations, then consult our website to check the various lengths, in feet, of each of our dumpsters options. If your dumpster rental can’t fit where you need it to go, you’ll delay your project and stretch your waste management budget.

Even if your dumpster fits the placement site itself, you’ll also have to make sure there’s enough clearance in the surrounding areas. The hauler and their truck must be able to pass through any gates, go over any bridges, or drive between trees on your property without any difficulty.

Choosing the Right Size Dumpster
Securing a dumpster of the appropriate size and making sure your property and placement site can accommodate it are all crucial parts of the project planning process. If you’re not sure where to start, ASAP is here to help.

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