Skip to main content
✓ Free Calculator • ✓ Weight Estimates • ✓ No Signup Required

Find the Right Dumpster Size for Your Project

Calculate volume and weight to avoid overage fees. Get accurate size recommendations in under 60 seconds.

100%
Free
Weight
Aware
<60s
Quick

How It Works

✓Select your project type and materials
✓Calculator considers both volume AND weight
✓Get instant dumpster size recommendation
✓Helps prevent costly overage fees
✓No signup or personal info required
Free & Easy to Use
No Account•No Email•No Spam
🎯

Advanced Material-Weight Calculator

Our new calculator considers both volume AND weight to prevent overage fees

Understanding Dumpster Sizes & Weight Limits

10 Yard Dumpster

Best for: Small bathroom remodels, garage cleanouts

⚠️ Weight Limit: 1-2 tons (watch for tile/concrete)

Holds approximately 3-4 pickup truck loads

20 Yard Dumpster

Best for: Large bathroom, kitchen remodels, roofing

⚠️ Weight Limit: 2-3 tons (shingles add up fast)

Holds approximately 6 pickup truck loads

30 Yard Dumpster

Best for: Large home remodels, new construction

⚠️ Weight Limit: 3-4 tons (still applies!)

Holds approximately 9-12 pickup truck loads

40 Yard Dumpster

Best for: Commercial cleanouts (light materials only)

⚠️ Weight Limit: 4-5 tons (never for concrete/dirt)

Holds approximately 12-16 pickup truck loads

Typical Dumpster Rental Costs

Get pricing estimates before you rent - costs vary by location

10-Yard Dumpster

$250-450

7-day rental period

Best for: Small cleanouts, bathroom remodels

20-Yard Dumpster

$300-500

7-day rental period

Best for: Kitchen remodels, roofing projects

30-Yard Dumpster

$400-600

7-day rental period

Best for: Large remodels, new construction

*Prices vary by location, disposal fees, and rental company. Use our ZIP lookup above for local estimates.

Calculate Your Exact Size

Why Weight Matters More Than Size

A 40-yard dumpster filled with concrete will hit weight limits at only 25% full. Our calculator prevents these expensive mistakes by considering your specific materials.

Overage fees typically range from $50-$150 per ton over the limit, making accurate calculations essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about dumpster rentals

Our calculator is highly accurate because it considers both volume and weight limitations. Unlike standard calculators that only estimate based on volume, our tool factors in material density to prevent overage fees.
Overage fees are additional charges when your debris exceeds the weight limit for your dumpster size. These fees typically range from $50-$150 per ton over the limit and can add hundreds of dollars to your rental cost.
Most rental companies prohibit hazardous materials including paint, chemicals, asbestos, tires, batteries, electronics, and appliances containing freon. Liquids, food waste, and medical waste are also typically banned. Always check with your rental company for their specific prohibited items list.
Volume is how much space the dumpster holds (measured in cubic yards), while weight limit is the maximum tonnage allowed. A dumpster can be full by volume but still under the weight limit with light materials, or only half full but over the weight limit with heavy materials like concrete.
Permit requirements vary by location. In most cities, you need a permit if the dumpster will be placed on a public street or right-of-way. Placement on private property (driveway, yard) typically doesn't require a permit.
Standard rental periods are typically 7-10 days, but this can vary by provider. Extended rental periods are usually available for an additional fee. Our local information section provides details specific to your area.
📐

Planning Your Project?

Calculate your material needs first at JobCalculators.com — Free calculators for concrete, drywall, roofing, paint, flooring, and more. Then return here to size your dumpster for the waste.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Dumpster?

Use our advanced calculator to get accurate recommendations based on your specific materials and project needs.

Calculate My Dumpster Size