How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Dumpster? Here’s the Data

The source for Google’s AI response contains data from up to July of 2023. They break down the average cost by size of dumpster after surveying folks who worked on a number of projects.

If we review another source, Angie’s list, the data says: “The cost to rent a dumpster nationally is $384 on average, but the typical homeowner will pay between $293 and $479. You might get away with paying as little as $200 for a week-long rental of a small dumpster or as much as $800 for an oversized dumpster rental for a week.”

What Determines Dumpster Rental Prices?

Dumpster rental pricing is influenced by several factors, including:

1. Dumpster Size: Larger dumpsters cost more to rent because they can hold more debris. Common sizes range from 10 to 40 cubic yards.
2. Rental Duration: The length of time you rent the dumpster can affect the price. Many companies offer a set rental period, and additional days can lead to extra fees.
3. Type of Debris: The type of materials you’re disposing of can impact the cost. For instance, construction debris or hazardous materials might require special handling and disposal, which can increase fees.
4. Weight Limits: Dumpsters have weight limits, and exceeding these limits can result in overage fees. Different types of debris, like concrete or heavy roofing materials, can add significant weight.
5. Location: Where you’re located plays a role in pricing. Urban areas or regions with higher disposal costs might have higher rental fees due to transportation and landfill tipping fees.
6. Disposal Fees: Local landfill or transfer station fees vary depending on the area and the type of waste being dumped, affecting the overall rental cost.
7. Permits: If you’re placing the dumpster on public property, you may need a permit from your local government, which can add to the cost.

Lastly, there is supply and demand. If dumpster rental companies in your area are few and far between, or sold out, you will have to not only wait longer for a dumpster but also pay higher prices.

Understanding these factors can help you plan better and manage costs effectively when renting a dumpster.

Can You Estimate the Weight of Your Debris to Better Gauge What You Will Pay to Rent a Dumpster?

There are several ways to estimate the weight of your debris before renting a dumpster, which can help you avoid overage fees and choose the right size for your project. Here are some methods to estimate the weight of your debris:

1. Use Standard Weight Estimates

Certain types of debris have average weight estimates per cubic yard, which can help you gauge the total weight based on the volume of debris. Here are some rough estimates for common materials:

• General household junk: 300–800 lbs per cubic yard
• Construction debris: 500–1,500 lbs per cubic yard
• Roofing shingles: 300lbs per square foot
• Concrete: 4,000 lbs per cubic yard
• Dirt/soil: 2,000–3,000 lbs per cubic yard
• Scrap metal: 500–1,000 lbs per cubic yard

2. Measure by Volume

You can estimate the volume of your debris and then apply the standard weight for that material. For instance, if you estimate you’ll have 2 cubic yards of construction debris, and you know the average weight is 1,000 lbs per cubic yard, you can expect your total debris to weigh around 2,000 lbs.

3. Weigh Items Individually

If you’re disposing of large, individual items like furniture or appliances, you can look up average weights for these items:

• Sofa: 200–300 lbs
• Refrigerator: 200–400 lbs
• Bed mattress: 50–150 lbs

4. Use a Scale for Small Loads

For smaller debris or batches, you can use a household or industrial scale. Weigh a small, representative sample of your debris, multiply it by the total number of similar items, or estimate based on how much volume the weighed sample represents.

5. Consult with a Dumpster Rental Company

Most dumpster rental companies have experience with various types of projects and can help you estimate the weight of your debris based on a description of your project and materials.

“What I have seen, working with a knowledgeable dumpster rental company like ours can make all the difference in avoiding costly mistakes. At S&A Container Service, we have handled a wide range of projects and can offer invaluable guidance when it comes to estimating the weight and volume of your debris,” Goetz says.

“By providing a clear description of your project, including the types of materials you’ll be disposing of and the overall scope, we can help you choose the right dumpster size and even advise on how to load it efficiently to maximize space. This not only saves you money by avoiding overages or additional hauls but also ensures you stay compliant with local.”

6. Online Weight Calculators

Some dumpster rental companies offer online weight calculators where you input the type and volume of debris, and it provides an estimate of the weight.

By estimating your debris weight before renting a dumpster, you can avoid the risk of exceeding weight limits, which can lead to costly overage fees.

How Do You Know Which Size Dumpster to Pay for?

Choosing the right size dumpster for your project can save you both time and money. Here’s a guide to help you determine the best size based on the type and volume of debris you expect to dispose of.

1. Assess the Type of Project

Different types of projects produce different amounts and types of debris. Here’s a rough guide to help estimate the size you’ll need for common projects:

• Small Cleanouts (e.g., garages, basements): 10-yard dumpster
• Home Renovations (e.g., bathroom, kitchen remodel): 20-yard dumpster
• Roofing Projects (e.g., shingle removal): 20-yard dumpster
• Major Cleanouts (e.g., estate cleanout, moving): 30-yard dumpster
• Large Construction Projects (e.g., home demolition, major renovations): 30–40 yard dumpster

2. Estimate the Volume of Debris

Dumpsters are measured in cubic yards, so it helps to estimate how much material you’ll need to dispose of. One cubic yard is equivalent to roughly:

• 3 feet long x 3 feet wide x 3 feet high, or
• About 7–10 trash bags.

Common Dumpster Sizes:

• 10-yard dumpster:
  • Holds 10 cubic yards of material, about 50–70 33-gallon trash bags.
  • Good for: Small home cleanouts, small remodeling projects, and heavy materials like dirt or concrete.
• 20-yard dumpster:
  • Holds 20 cubic yards, around 110–130 33-gallon trash bags.
  • Good for: Medium-sized renovation projects, roofing jobs, and larger home cleanouts.
• 30-yard dumpster:
  • Holds 30 cubic yards, approximately 170–190 trash bags.
  • Good for: Estate cleanouts, construction jobs, or multi-room renovations.
• 40-yard dumpster:
  • Holds 40 cubic yards, about 230–250 trash bags.
  • Good for: Large construction projects, demolition jobs, or major home renovations.

3. Consider the Type of Debris

The type of debris will also influence the size of the dumpster you need:

• Heavy materials (e.g., concrete, dirt, shingles): Even if you’re working on a smaller project, heavy materials take up less space but weigh much more. In these cases, a smaller dumpster (10 or 20-yard) is often best because larger dumpsters may exceed weight limits.
• Lightweight or bulky items (e.g., furniture, household junk): You may need a larger dumpster (30 or 40-yard) for bulky, lightweight items like furniture or for major cleanouts.

4. Estimate Weight Limits

Each dumpster size comes with a weight limit, usually between 2–10 tons. Exceeding the weight limit results in extra fees. Here are general weight guidelines based on project types:

• 10-yard dumpster: 2–3 tons (good for heavy debris like concrete or roofing shingles).
• 20-yard dumpster: 3–5 tons (common for home renovations).
• 30-yard dumpster: 4–6 tons (used for large projects like estate cleanouts).
• 40-yard dumpster: 5–7 tons (best for large construction projects).

5. Space Available at Your Site

Make sure the dumpster will fit on your property. Measure the area where you plan to place it and check for any restrictions (such as driveway width or overhead obstacles). Keep in mind that larger dumpsters need more space for delivery and pickup.

6. Consult with a Dumpster Rental Company

If you’re unsure about the size, most dumpster rental companies can help you choose based on the details of your project. They often have experience estimating size based on project type and material volume.

General Tips:

• Don’t underestimate: It’s usually better to rent a slightly larger dumpster than you think you’ll need. Overfilling a dumpster can result in overage fees or the need for an additional rental.
• Be mindful of weight: If your project involves heavy materials, choose a smaller size to avoid exceeding weight limits.

By considering the type of project, volume, and weight of your debris, you can choose the most cost-effective dumpster size for your needs.

Do You Have to Pay for a Permit to Rent a Dumpster?

Whether you need to pay for a permit to rent a dumpster depends on where the dumpster will be placed and local regulations. Here’s a breakdown:

1. No Permit Needed (Private Property)

If the dumpster will be placed on private property, such as in your driveway or on a construction site, you typically won’t need a permit. However, you should always confirm with your dumpster rental company, as some localities may have special regulations for large items on private land.

2. Permit Required (Public Property)

If the dumpster needs to be placed on public property, such as a street, sidewalk, or alley, a permit is usually required. The reason is that public spaces are regulated by local government, and using these areas may obstruct traffic, pedestrians, or other public services.

3. Cost of Permits

The cost of a dumpster permit varies depending on your city or town. Here are some typical permit-related costs:

• Permit fees: These can range from as low as $10 to over $100, depending on your location. Urban areas or cities with high demand for public space may charge higher fees.
• Duration: Some permits are valid for a specific period, such as a week or month. If you need the dumpster longer than the permit allows, you may have to pay for an extension.
• Location-specific fees: Busy or high-traffic areas may incur higher permit costs due to the increased impact on public services.

4. How to Obtain a Permit

In most cases, you can obtain a permit through your local government’s public works or building department. Some dumpster rental companies may also handle this process for you, but they could charge an additional service fee.

5. Fines for Not Having a Permit

If you place a dumpster on public property without the required permit, you may be fined or asked to remove the dumpster. The fines can be significant and may vary depending on your locality.

Tips:

• Check local regulations: Contact your city or county government or consult with your dumpster rental provider to find out the specific permit requirements in your area.
• Plan ahead: Permit approval can take a few days or longer, so it’s best to handle this part of the process early in your dumpster rental planning.

In short, you’ll only need to pay for a permit if the dumpster is placed on public property, and the cost and regulations will vary by location.

Contact Dumpster Rental Experts to Learn More about Costs & Pricing

When it comes to dumpster rental prices, there are several factors to consider, from the size of the dumpster to the type of materials you’re disposing of. While these variables can influence the final cost, understanding your project’s needs and getting the right guidance can save you both time and money.

Rather than navigating the complexities of pricing on your own, working with an expert can ensure you’re not paying for more than you need—or dealing with costly surprises like overage fees.

“What I would like to see is more companies in the dumpster rental industry providing scale tickets to their customers, just as we do at S&A Container Service. Scale tickets offer a clear, transparent record of the weight of the debris being disposed of, ensuring customers are only charged for what they use,” Goetz says.

“By adopting this practice across the industry, we can build greater trust with our customers and strengthen the reputation of the waste management sector as a whole. Transparency isn’t just good business—it’s the foundation of lasting customer.”

At S&A Container we take pride in offering personalized service and expert advice to help you find the most cost-effective solution for your project. Whether you’re tackling a home cleanout or managing a large construction site, our team can assess your needs and provide a customized quote. Contact us today to get started—we’re here to help make your dumpster rental experience smooth and affordable.