Dumpster Size Guide: Which Size Do You Need?
Choosing the right dumpster size saves money and headaches. Too small and you pay for a second haul. Too large and you're paying for space you don't need. Use this guide to pick the perfect roll-off for your project — from small home cleanouts to large commercial builds.
Roll-Off Dumpster Size Comparison
Prices shown are national averages — click any size for a full guide
Compare All Dumpster Sizes
- Small cleanouts
- Bathroom remodels
- Garage cleanouts
- Minor landscaping
- Kitchen renovations
- Flooring removal
- Medium cleanouts
- Small roofing jobs
- Whole-home cleanouts
- Medium roofing
- Siding removal
- Large renovations
- Large home remodels
- New construction
- Commercial projects
- Estate cleanouts
- Major construction
- Commercial demolition
- Large commercial builds
- Industrial projects
Quick Comparison Table
| Size | Dimensions | Capacity | Avg. Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 yard | 12 × 7.5 × 3.5 ft | 3–4 pickup loads | $275–$450 | Small cleanouts, Bathroom remodels |
| 15 yard | 14 × 7.5 × 4 ft | 4–6 pickup loads | $325–$500 | Kitchen renovations, Flooring removal |
| 20 yard | 16 × 7.5 × 4.5 ft | 6–8 pickup loads | $375–$575 | Whole-home cleanouts, Medium roofing |
| 30 yard | 18 × 7.5 × 5.5 ft | 9–12 pickup loads | $425–$650 | Large home remodels, New construction |
| 40 yard | 22 × 7.5 × 8 ft | 12–16 pickup loads | $475–$750 | Major construction, Commercial demolition |
* Prices are national averages. Actual costs vary by location and company.
What Size Do I Need for My Project?
Bathroom remodel
10-yard recommended — Old tile, fixtures, and drywall fit easily
Kitchen renovation
15-yard recommended — Cabinets, appliances, and demo debris
Roof replacement (1,500 sq ft)
20-yard recommended — Shingles are heavy — 20-yd handles typical weight
Whole-house cleanout
20-yard recommended — Furniture, appliances, and household items
Home addition or new build
30-yard recommended — Framing, drywall, and construction waste
Large commercial project
40-yard recommended — Maximum capacity for big jobs
Watch Out
Heavy Material Weight Guide
Overage fees: $60–$100 per ton over limit
Weight by Material Type
200–400 lbs/yd³
400–600 lbs/yd³
750–1,500 lbs/yd³
1,500–2,000 lbs/yd³
2,000–3,000 lbs/yd³
Example: A 20-yard dumpster has a 3-ton (6,000 lb) limit. Just 4 cubic yards of concrete = 8,000–12,000 lbs — already 2× over the limit. Always confirm weight allowances before loading heavy materials.
Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Size
- When in doubt, go bigger: Upgrading to a larger size typically costs $50–$75 more. An extra haul costs $200–$400.
- Heavy materials need weight limits: Concrete, dirt, and shingles are very heavy. A 10-yard dumpster can hit weight limits even when only half-full.
- Measure your space first: Roll-off dumpsters need clearance for delivery. Measure your driveway and check for overhead wires or trees.
- Ask about included tonnage: Most rentals include 1–3 tons. Extra weight is billed at $60–$80 per ton overage.
Calculators & Guides
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