Dumpster Weight and Size Calculators
Estimate the weight of your debris, whether you’re tossing shingles, lumber, concrete or drywall.
Check Available Dumpsters Near You
Calculate the Weight of Your Debris to Choose the Right Dumpster Size
Use the dumpster weight calculators below to see which size dumpster you’ll need to handle the mess. Have any questions? Give us a call and our team will help you choose the best container based on the debris you’re dealing with.
How Much Does Each Dumpster Size Hold?
Each of our dumpster sizes includes a weight limit in your quoted rate. These limits make sure we follow safety regulations and allow us to offer straightforward, all-inclusive pricing. Since landfills charge disposal costs by the ton, we provide weight limits upfront so you’ll know your costs before your bin reaches the landfill scale.
Which Size Dumpster Should I Rent?
The dumpster size you need depends on the type and amount of debris you’re tossing. We offer roll off dumpster sizes that accommodate up to 10 tons of waste, though most weight limits fall between 1 and 5 tons.
Weight of Debris* | Recommended Dumpster Size |
|---|---|
1 - 2 tons | 10 cubic yards |
1 - 2 tons | 15 cubic yards |
2 - 3 tons | 20 cubic yards |
2 - 4 tons | 30 cubic yards |
4 - 5 tons | 40 cubic yards |
How Many Dumpsters Do I Need?
Some debris types are so heavy they can’t be hauled in anything larger than a 10 yard container. In cases like these, you may need to rent multiple containers. Check the chart below to estimate how many dumpsters you’ll need for your upcoming project.
Dumpsters for Heavy Debris
If you’re tossing heavy debris, like concrete, brick, block, dirt or asphalt, you’ll need a heavy debris dumpster, which comes in a 10 yard size and holds up to 10 tons.
Amount of Debris* | Number of Dumpsters Recommended |
|---|---|
Less than 10 tons | 1 heavy debris dumpster |
10 - 20 tons | 2 heavy debris dumpsters |
Over 20 tons | Contact our team |
Dumpsters for Shingles
Shingles are heavy so you’ll need to rent one or multiple roofing dumpsters, depending on how much you’re tossing. Our most common roofing dumpster is 10 cubic yards.
Type of Shingles | Amount of Debris* | Number of Dumpsters Recommended |
|---|---|---|
Architectural | Less than 40 squares | 1 roofing dumpster |
Architectural | 40 - 60 squares | 2 roofing dumpsters |
Architectural | 60 - 80 squares | 3 roofing dumpsters |
Three-tab | Less than 60 squares | 1 roofing dumpster |
Three-tab | 60 - 80 squares | 2 roofing dumpsters |
Dumpster Calculator FAQs
How is debris weight calculated?
After pickup, your dumpster is taken to the landfill, where it’s weighed along with the truck and debris. Once emptied, the truck and empty dumpster are weighed again. The difference between these two measurements determines the exact weight of your debris.
How do you calculate cubic yards of debris?
To help estimate which dumpster size you'll need, you can find the cubic yardage of your debris. First, multiply, in feet, your debris’:
- Length
- Width
- Height/depth
Then divide that number by 27, and you will find the number of cubic yards.
How is dumpster size calculated?
A dumpster's external dimensions are often measured in feet. However, a dumpster's volume is measured in cubic yards. This is determined by multiplying, in feet, the dumpster’s:
- Interior length
- Width
- Height
Then divide that number by 27 to get the cubic yards of the dumpster.
What happens if I go over my dumpster’s weight limit?
If you fill your dumpster past its weight limit, overage fees apply. Our team will give you advice to avoid going over the limit, and you can always rent additional containers or schedule our empty-and-return service if you end up with more debris than expected.
Is the weight calculator result exact?
No. It's an estimate based on average material weights. Actual debris weight may vary depending on moisture, density and how tightly the dumpster is packed. When in doubt, it’s best to round up or contact our team for help.
What if I’m between two dumpster sizes?
If your debris weight estimate is on the edge between two sizes, it's safer to go with the larger dumpster. It gives you more room and helps avoid the need for a second container or overage fees.
Helpful Dumpster Resources
How to Rent a Dumpster
Our guide walks you through the dumpster rental process from start to finish.
Dumpster Rental Size
Explore our different roll off dumpster sizes to find the perfect fit for your mess.
Disposal Guides
Learn the right way to get rid of specific debris, like rocks, shingles and more.