What Size Dumpster Do I Need?
Updated February 2026
Picking the wrong dumpster size is the #1 mistake people make. Too small and you're paying for a second haul. Too big and you're wasting money on space you don't need. Here's how to get it right.
Quick Reference
| Size | Best For | Avg Price | Truck Loads |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Yard | Single-room cleanout | $280–$430 | 2–3 pickup truck loads |
| 15 Yard | Multi-room cleanout | $330–$500 | 3–5 pickup truck loads |
| 20 Yard | Full kitchen or bathroom renovation | $380–$580 | 4–6 pickup truck loads |
| 30 Yard | Major home renovation (multiple rooms) | $430–$680 | 8–10 pickup truck loads |
| 40 Yard | Large-scale demolition | $480–$800 | 12–14 pickup truck loads |
10-Yard Dumpster
Best for:
- Single-room cleanout
- Small bathroom or kitchen remodel
- Garage declutter
- 250–300 sq ft of decking
- Small landscaping projects
Most popular for homeowners doing a weekend cleanout. Fits in a standard driveway without blocking the garage.
15-Yard Dumpster
Best for:
- Multi-room cleanout
- Medium bathroom remodel
- Flooring removal (up to 1,500 sq ft)
- Small roof tear-off (single layer, <1,500 sq ft)
- Basement cleanout
The sweet spot between a 10 and 20. Not all companies offer 15-yard dumpsters — ask specifically.
20-Yard Dumpster
Best for:
- Full kitchen or bathroom renovation
- Roof tear-off (single layer, up to 3,000 sq ft)
- Carpet and flooring removal for a full house
- Deck removal (up to 400 sq ft)
- Large landscaping or yard waste
The most popular size for contractors and large home projects. Handles most residential renovation waste.
30-Yard Dumpster
Best for:
- Major home renovation (multiple rooms)
- New construction waste
- Large roof tear-off (multi-layer or >3,000 sq ft)
- Commercial cleanout
- Storm damage cleanup
For big jobs. The extra height means more capacity, but check local height restrictions if placing on the street.
40-Yard Dumpster
Best for:
- Large-scale demolition
- Commercial construction
- Whole-house cleanout (estate, foreclosure)
- Industrial waste
- Multi-unit building renovation
The biggest standard size. Usually overkill for residential — but if you're demoing a whole house, this is it.
Tips to Avoid Overpaying
- When in doubt, go one size up. A second haul costs $150–$300. The price difference between a 20 and 30 yard is usually $50–$100.
- Ask about weight limits. Heavy materials (concrete, dirt, roofing) hit weight limits fast. A 20-yard dumpster full of shingles can weigh 4+ tons.
- Check for flat-rate pricing. Some companies include disposal in the rental price. Others charge by the ton. Know which you're getting.
- Ask about rental period. Standard is 7–10 days. Extensions typically run $10–$20/day. Plan ahead.
- Don't mix debris types. Some haulers charge extra if you mix construction waste with household junk. Ask upfront.
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