Dumpster Rental FAQs
Find expert answers to your most commonly asked dumpster rental questions.
Check Available Dumpsters Near You
Common Questions About Renting a Dumpster
As the most customer-centric company in the waste management industry, we have answers to all your dumpster rental questions. Our experts are here to make your cleanup experience seamless, whether it’s your first time renting a dumpster or you’re a pro looking to clarify a few details.
Ordering a Dumpster
How do I rent a dumpster?
We make renting a dumpster easy by providing you with multiple ordering options. If you already know which size and weight limit you need for your project, ordering online is the best way to go. Need to iron out a few details about your rental? Call our team, and we’ll help you find the right dumpster for your cleanup.
What projects are roll off dumpsters often used for?
Homeowners and contractors use roll off dumpsters for a variety of projects, from heavy debris removal to event waste disposal. Typical projects include home and office cleanouts, renovations, demolition, construction jobs, landscaping projects and more.
Which size roll off dumpster is right for my project?
The roll off dumpster size you need depends on the scale of your project, the type of debris you’re tossing and the delivery location. If you have a small driveway or you’re getting rid of heavy debris, like concrete or rocks, you’ll need a 10 yard bin. For large-scale remodels or demolition jobs, a 40 yard container is a better fit. Not sure which size is best for your project? Our team can provide expert recommendations based on your debris details.
Can I order additional dumpsters?
Yes, you can order as many dumpsters as needed to complete your cleanup. We can deliver multiple containers to your worksite, whether you need several dumpsters at one location or one bin at multiple jobsites. If you fill up your dumpster before you finish your project, reach out to schedule our empty-and-return service. We’ll haul your full container to the landfill and replace it with a fresh bin, so you never have to pause your job.
Will my dumpster have a weight limit?
Yes, each of our dumpsters has a weight limit based on your project needs. Typical weight limits are between 1 and 5 tons, but our containers can hold up to 10 tons safely. If you’re not sure how much your debris weighs, use our weight calculators to estimate your waste tonnage ahead of time, or contact our team. We’ll talk through your debris and find the right weight limit for your project.
What will my dumpster look like?
Your dumpster exterior will vary depending on our inventory. While the color and shape may be different than what you see on our website, the cubic volume will always be the same.
Dumpster Pricing
How much does it cost to rent a roll off dumpster?
The average cost to rent a dumpster is $654, however, prices vary between $390 and $1,590. Exact roll off dumpster prices differ based on location, dumpster size, debris type, debris weight and rental period length. When you rent a dumpster with us, you’ll receive one upfront price that accounts for these factors and includes your drop-off and pickup as well.
What are dumpster fees?
Dumpster fees are additional charges separate from your upfront price that are added on when your dumpster exceeds the terms of our service agreement. For example, if you overload your container, surpass your weight limit or toss prohibited items, we charge a dumpster fee to cover the additional service.
Why does a dumpster cost so much?
The upfront price you receive for your dumpster includes several key factors that determine the final cost:
- Landfill and transfer station fees
- Cost of the dumpster rental
- Fuel costs for delivery and pickup
- Your driver’s salary
With our reasonable and transparent pricing, you’ll never pay for more than what’s necessary. Costs like these aren’t added to your final price, they’re already included. So what you see on your invoice is always the price you’ll pay.
Delivery and Pickup
When will my dumpster be delivered?
Your dumpster can arrive at any time on your delivery day. We plan our routes based on fuel-efficiency, so our team often can't provide an exact arrival time. It’s important to make sure the delivery spot is clear of any obstacles for the entire day.
Do I have to be present for delivery and pickup?
No, you don’t have to be present for delivery and pickup. We take down detailed placement instructions when you order and instruct the driver to drop the dumpster off in your designated delivery spot. When you're ready, simply schedule a pickup online. Just like for delivery, you don’t need to be there, but make sure the area is free of obstructions in advance.
Will I need a permit to use my dumpster?
You may need a permit for your dumpster depending on the location of your bin and your local municipality. If you keep your container on private property, like your driveway or jobsite, then you most likely don’t need a permit. However, you typically must get a permit for street placement. It’s important to check with your local municipality about permitting information before renting a dumpster, no matter where you plan to keep it.
How do I schedule a pickup for my dumpster?
When you finish your cleanup, simply schedule a pickup online or get in touch with our team. You don’t need to be present for pickup — just make sure the area around your dumpster is clear of obstacles, and we’ll haul your debris to the landfill for you.
Will a roll off dumpster damage my driveway?
A dumpster rental can cause damage to your driveway if it's overloaded with debris or on an uneven surface. We help prevent damage to your driveway by requiring a weight limit and placement on a flat surface. If you're concerned about potential damage, you can lay down plywood to go underneath your dumpster and protect your driveway.
What do I do if my dumpster arrives with debris in it?
If debris is in your dumpster upon delivery, take a photo of the container as soon as possible. Then reach out to our team and send the photo so we can keep it on file. No further action is required on your part.
Will you let me know when my dumpster is delivered?
If you would like to be notified of your dumpster delivery, get in touch with our team, and we'll contact you as soon as possible after our driver drops off your bin.
Where will you put my dumpster?
We need to place your roll off dumpster on a flat, paved surface. For household projects, your driveway is typically ideal. On a construction site, a designated waste area works better. If you don't have space on private property, we can also deliver your bin to the street.
Dumpster Rental Period
How should I load my dumpster?
The easiest way to load your dumpster is to start with heavy or bulky debris. Walk these items through the dumpster door and distribute the weight evenly. Then toss light materials over the sides. When loading your dumpster, make sure everything stays below the bin’s fill line. If debris sticks out of the top or hangs over the sides of your container, we won’t be able to pick it up.
What can I throw in my dumpster rental?
You can throw away a variety of debris in your dumpster rental. Accepted items include most household junk, yard waste and construction materials. However, some debris can never go in a roll off dumpster. Prohibited items include flammable, toxic or hazardous waste because they cause damage to the container or landfill.
How do I open my dumpster door?
To open the door, first remove the safety latch or pin holding the dumpster bar in place. If your dumpster door has a chain, remove it from its slot and place it on the ground. Once any safety chains, latches or pins are removed, lift up on the dumpster door lever and push the door open.
How long can I keep my roll off dumpster?
Our typical dumpster rental period is between seven and 10 days, but it can also be as short as a weekend. If you finish your cleanup before the end of your rental period, you can request an early pickup with our Service Dashboard. Need to keep your bin past your rental period? Let us know — usually you can hold on to your roll off dumpster for a flat daily rate.
Should I cover my dumpster if it rains or snows?
Yes. It’s important to cover your dumpster when it rains or snows to prevent extra weight in your bin. Rain and snow can accumulate in your container or soak absorbent materials. If your debris ends up heavier than your weight limit, you’ll receive a per-ton overage fee. The cover also helps prevent debris from freezing together, which can result in a dig-out fee. Covering your dumpster helps prevent weather-related fees.
How do I prevent other people from using my dumpster?
To prevent illegal dumping in your roll off container, follow these simple steps:
- Cover your bin
- Place a warning sign
- Avoid street placement
- Ask your neighbors to help keep an eye out
You can also reach out to our team about using locks and gravity bars to secure your dumpster.
Additional Resources
Check out our helpful articles and guides to learn more about the dumpster rental process.
Size Selection Resources
Use our weight calculators to estimate your debris tonnage and find the right size roll off dumpster for your cleanup.
Helpful Guides
Learn everything there is to know about how to rent a dumpster with our step-by-step guide.
Pricing Resources
Our all-inclusive rates include your delivery, pickup, rental period, weight limit and disposal costs in one price.