Pick the right box
Dumpster Sizes: What Size Dumpster Do I Need?
The right dumpster size saves you money. Too small means a second haul. Too big means paying for space you don't use. Here's how to choose.
Size comparison
| Size | Dimensions (L × W × H) | Pickup loads | Common projects |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 yard | 12 × 8 × 3.5 ft | 3 to 4 | Garage cleanout, bath remodel, concrete or dirt |
| 15 yard | 16 × 8 × 4 ft | 5 to 6 | Basement cleanout, deck removal, small roof |
| 20 yard | 22 × 8 × 4 ft | 6 to 8 | Whole-house cleanout, kitchen remodel, most roofs |
| 30 yard | 22 × 8 × 6 ft | 9 to 12 | New construction, major remodel, estate cleanout |
Dimensions are approximate and vary slightly by company.
Estimate your debris in three steps
- Count pickup loads. A full-size pickup bed holds about 2 to 3 cubic yards when loaded to the rails.
- Think about weight. Shingles, tile, plaster, concrete and dirt fill the weight limit fast. Go smaller and lighter-loaded for those.
- Add a cushion. Projects grow. If you're between sizes, pick the larger one.
Size by project
Cleanouts
Garage: 10 to 15 yard. Whole house: 20 to 30 yard. See cleanouts.
Remodels
Bathroom: 10 yard. Kitchen: 15 to 20 yard. Multiple rooms or a gut: 30 yard.
Roofing
Most single-layer roofs: 15 to 20 yard, planned by weight. See roofing dumpsters.
Yard work
Brush, limbs and fencing: 10 to 15 yard. Soil and rock: 10 yard, partly filled.
Will it fit in my driveway?
Measure your driveway length and width. A 10 yard needs about 15 feet of length. A 20 or 30 yard needs about 26 feet. The truck needs roughly 60 feet of straight approach and 20 feet of overhead clearance. When in doubt, the provider can look at your property on a satellite map before delivery.
Signs you need a bigger dumpster
- You're clearing more than one floor of a home.
- The job includes both demolition and a cleanout.
- You have large furniture like sectionals, pianos or hot tub parts.
- Several people are working on the project at once.
Signs a smaller dumpster is fine
- The debris is mostly heavy, like dirt, brick or shingles.
- It's a single room or a single-car garage.
- Your driveway is short or has low branches.
Still not sure?
Call and describe your project. A local provider will recommend a size.
Call (864) 477-3691