What Size Dumpster Do I Need?
Choosing the right dumpster size saves you money and hassle. This guide helps you pick between our 20 and 30 yard dumpsters based on your specific project.
Quick Answer: Which Size Do You Need?
Best for most residential projects
- Garage/basement cleanout
- Single room renovation
- Small roofing job
- Deck removal
$475
10-day rental
Best for large or commercial projects
- Whole house cleanout
- Major renovation
- New construction
- Storm cleanup
$525
10-day rental
Dumpster Size Comparison
| Feature | 20 Yard | 30 Yard |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 22ft x 8ft x 4ft | 22ft x 8ft x 6ft |
| Capacity | 20 cubic yards | 30 cubic yards |
| Pickup Truck Loads | ~8 loads | ~12 loads |
| Weight Included | 3 tons | 3 tons |
| 10-Day Price | $475 | $525 |
| Best For | Cleanouts, small renovations | Construction, large projects |
Dumpster Size by Project Type
Find your project below to see our recommended dumpster size.
Garage or Basement Cleanout
20 YardClearing out years of accumulated items, old furniture, boxes, and general junk.
A 20-yard dumpster holds about 8 pickup truck loads. Perfect for most single-room cleanouts.
Whole House Cleanout
30 YardEstate cleanout, moving out, or clearing an entire home of furniture and belongings.
For a full house, you may need multiple dumpsters or a 30-yard with a swap-out.
Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel
20 YardCabinets, countertops, flooring, drywall, and fixtures from a single room renovation.
Renovation debris is heavier than it looks. Stay under the weight limit with a 20-yard.
Roofing Project (Up to 25 Squares)
20 YardTearing off old shingles from a typical residential roof.
Shingles are heavy! One square = 100 sq ft. A 2,000 sq ft roof = 20 squares.
Large Roofing Project (25+ Squares)
30 YardCommercial roofing or large residential roofs with multiple layers.
For roofs with multiple layers or over 2,500 sq ft, go with the 30-yard.
New Construction or Addition
30 YardBuilding debris, packaging, scrap lumber, drywall, and general construction waste.
Construction projects generate a lot of bulky waste. The 30-yard handles it all.
Deck or Fence Removal
20 YardTearing out an old deck, fence, or similar outdoor structure.
Wood is bulky but relatively light. A 20-yard is usually plenty for deck removal.
Storm Damage Cleanup
30 YardDebris from storm damage including branches, damaged materials, and general cleanup.
Storm cleanup often involves more debris than expected. Go bigger to be safe.
Tips for Choosing the Right Size
When in Doubt, Size Up
It's better to have extra space than to need a second dumpster. The price difference between sizes is small compared to ordering an additional container.
Consider the Weight
Heavy materials like concrete, roofing shingles, and dirt fill up weight limits fast. A half-full dumpster of heavy debris can exceed the weight limit.
Think About Access
Both sizes are 22 feet long but the 30-yard is taller. Make sure you have room and can easily toss items over the side.
Still Not Sure?
Give us a call and describe your project. We've helped hundreds of customers choose the right size and we're happy to help you too.
(618) 231-8481Ready to Rent Your Dumpster?
Now that you know what size you need, book online in 60 seconds or give us a call.