17 Dec 2018

Renting a dumpster, seems pretty simple right? Well, before you place your dumpster order there are a few things you need to know.

SIZE 
For starters, consider the size. Typically, temporary dumpster rentals will come in four or five sizes…10 cubic yard, 15 cubic yard, 20 cubic yard, 30 cubic yard and 40 cubic yard containers. While to 10, 20, 30 and 40 yard dumpsters are common, the 15 cubic yard containers may be hard to find sometimes.

Dimensions (may vary slightly): 

  • 10 yard dumpsters – approx. 12-14 ft long x 8 ft wide x 3-3.5 ft high
  • 20 yard dumpsters – approx. 22 ft long x 8 ft wide x 4 ft high
  • 30 yard dumpsters – approx. 22 ft long x 8 ft wide x 4 ft high
  • 40 yard dumpsters – approx. 22 ft long x 8 ft wide x 4 ft high

WEIGHT LIMIT 
Almost every dumpster will have a weight limit. Meaning the “stuff” you put in the dumpster will ultimately be weighed and if the weight limit for your dumpster exceeds your rental agreement you will more than likely face an additional charge. Make sure you ask what your weight limit is on your dumpster rental before you order. The weight limit can range anywhere from 2 to 12 tons!

RENTAL PERIOD 
How long do you get to keep your dumpster? Most companies will allow you to keep your dumpster for between 5-7 days. If you’re lucky, you might find a company that will let you keep your dumpster for up to 2 weeks. What happens if you want to keep it longer than your agreed time frame? Extra fees. Normally, you will incur a daily rate charge from anywhere from $5 to $15 per day, after the initial rental period.

FEES, FEES, FEES = ASK, ASK, ASK! 
Some people might say that the dumpster rental services industry is known for all types of additional or add-on fees. So be a smart consumer and ask the following questions.

Is there a delivery fee? A lot of dumpster rental companies will charge a delivery fee on top of the rate they quote you, so be sure to ask. Delivery fees can range anywhere from $25 to $50 or more.

Is there a daily rental fee? Some companies will charge a daily rental fee so be sure to ask if the rental charge is included or not.

Is tax included? Again, ask if tax is included in the quoted price.

What can’t go in the dumpster? Depending on the company and/or city rules and regulations there will most certainly be some items you cannot place in the container. Some typical prohibited items include: paint, oil, gasoline, any hazardous waste, any flammable liquids, and toxic materials, car tires, car batteries, asbestos, etc. Once again, always ask about a prohibited items list. Placing any of these items in the dumpster will more than likely result in an additional charge.

MOVING FORWARD 
Renting a dumpster can be a very useful service for a lot of different projects. But just like any other purchase, remember the old phrase “buyer beware”. Ask a lot questions and make sure you get an all inclusive, flat rate on your dumpster order. Use the questions and guidelines above to help navigate through the dumpster rental process and you should come out a happy and knowledgeable customer!