Dumpster 101: Everything You Need to Know About Dumpster Rentals

Be Prepared

Preparing for the Arrival of Your Dumpster

So, you've taken the plunge and ordered a roll-off dumpster, gearing up for the eagerly anticipated delivery day. Below is an all-encompassing guide on how to prepare and what to anticipate:

1. Clear the Way for Your Dumpster:

Although your physical presence isn't mandatory during delivery, our truck will gracefully roll in during regular business hours on your appointed day. Within a mere 10 minutes, we'll expertly park the bin.

2. Define Your Delivery Area:

While our adept driver will locate your designated drop-off spot, visibly marking the area ensures precision in placement. This extra step guarantees that the container lands precisely where you envision.

3. Scrutinize the Area:

Upon arrival, our skilled driver will deftly reverse the truck into your driveway, smoothly releasing the dumpster.

4. Dive into the Task at Hand:

Once the dumpster graces your space, our truck will bid adieu, leaving you free to embark on the debris-disposal journey.

Preparing Your Driveway for Dumpster Delivery:

Ordering a roll-off container brings with it the responsibility of prepping the drop-off spot. Navigate these steps for a seamless delivery:

1. Clear the Path for Your Dumpster Delivery:

Sweep away any impediments by relocating cars and miscellaneous objects from the delivery area and its surroundings. Ensure the selected drop-off spot adheres to specific dimensions—60 feet in length, 10.5 feet in width, and 25-30 feet in height—while remaining unobstructed. Note that failure to do so may incur a fee.

2. Define Your Delivery Area:

While we meticulously record placement instructions, demarcating your desired spot with vibrant tape or markers contributes to foolproof placement. Consider employing plywood to safeguard your driveway from potential blemishes.

3. Review the Area on Your Scheduled Delivery Day:

In anticipation of the scheduled delivery day, verify that the drop-off area remains uncluttered. Potential obstructions may necessitate moving parked cars, and entrance gates should be accessible for a seamless delivery.

Preparing for Street Delivery:

For those lacking driveway space, street delivery is a viable option. Keep these guidelines in mind:

1. Define Your Delivery Spot:

Allocate sufficient street space by strategically placing cones on delivery day, ensuring the immediate area is free of hindrances. Coordination with neighbors to relocate their vehicles might be necessary for a successful container drop-off.

2. Adhere to Local Permitting Requirements:

Street delivery often hinges on acquiring a permit. Anticipate this need by applying in advance, taking into account potential fees and additional stipulations from your municipality.

Preparing for Delivery to a Jobsite:

For deliveries to construction sites, heed the following tips:

Designate a waste area away from equipment and potential obstacles, ensuring accessibility for both delivery and pickup. Communicate any specific placement instructions well in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How long does it take to get a dumpster delivered?

We recommend scheduling at least 3 days in advance, though some areas offer the convenience of same-day or next-day delivery.

2. Is my presence required during delivery?

Physical presence is not mandatory; however, it's crucial to ensure the designated area is free of obstructions on the scheduled day.

3. Can I request a specific delivery time?

Regrettably, we can't guarantee precise delivery times. Deliveries are scheduled between 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the designated date. We do offer a guarenteed delivery spot for a $40 fee during the online rental process.

4. Where is the optimal location for placing a dumpster?

A level, paved area on private property is ideal. Driveways are recommended for home projects, while contractors should designate a waste area separate from equipment.

5. Will the dumpster impact my driveway?

For added protection, consider laying plywood on your driveway during delivery. We offer a driveway protection for $25 on our online rental process.  It includes a commercial tarp and rubber mats so that the dumpster never touchers your surface.

6. How long does the process of dropping off a dumpster take?

The entire maneuver of parking a dumpster takes less than 10 minutes.

What to think about before ordering a dumpster

Before finalizing the rental of a dumpster for your project, it's essential to consider a few crucial factors. Follow these five steps to simplify the ordering process.

1. Select Your Cleanup Partner
2. Ensure that you choose the right dumpster rental company to kickstart your cleaning project. Refer to our helpful guide for insights into what to look for when selecting a dumpster rental service.
3. Estimate Size and Weight
4. For a seamless dumpster rental experience, it's crucial to estimate the size and weight of the materials you're disposing of. We provide resources like weight calculators to assist you in determining the best fit for your project.
5. Opt for the Right Dumpster Size
6. When placing a dumpster order, make sure to choose the appropriate size for your project. The size of the roll-off container depends on the scope of your work. Explore our range of dumpster sizes or consult our team for personalized recommendations.
7. Budget for Your Rental
8. Plan your cleanup costs in advance before renting a dumpster. Our pricing guide outlines the factors to consider, and we provide information on common dumpster fees to help you manage your cleanup expenses effectively.
9. Select a Convenient Delivery Spot
10. Before confirming your dumpster order, choose a flat, paved, and convenient location for drop-off. Your driveway is often ideal for home-based projects, while construction sites should have a designated waste and recycling area.

How to Place a Dumpster Order

We tailor the ordering process to suit your project, offering two methods for scheduling dumpster delivery: online and over the phone.

• Order Online:
• If you're working on a simple, straightforward project such as attic cleanouts or junk removal, it's recommended to order a dumpster online. This option is convenient for projects where the debris is easy to dispose of, and you don't have specific questions for our customer service team.
• Order Over the Phone:
• If you're unsure about the dumpster size or have questions about the materials you're disposing of, it's best to order your dumpster over the phone. Our helpful team will guide you through the process, ensuring you get the right bin for your job.

What to Do After Placing Your Dumpster Order

Once you've secured your dumpster, it's time to prepare for delivery. Follow these tips for a smooth experience:

• Get Ready for Delivery Day:
• Prepare for the arrival of your dumpster rental with these quick tips.
• Clean Up Mindfully:
• Utilize our guide to avoid additional fees during your cleanup.
• Prepare for Pickup:
• When you're done, fill out our quick online form, and we'll efficiently haul away the mess.

This ensures a hassle-free experience from ordering to cleanup completion.

Tips for Successful Dumpster Rental, from Delivery to Pickup



Renting a dumpster might seem straightforward, but for those new to working with a roll-off dumpster, it's beneficial to have some guidance to ensure a smooth rental experience. Maximize your dumpster rental period with these essential tips, covering everything from loading techniques to accepted materials and weight limits.

Loading Your Dumpster

Open Your Dumpster Door to Walk Items Inside:

Utilize the loading door for easy filling. Walk large, heavy items in first and distribute weight evenly. You can also roll items inside using a wheelbarrow.

Only Throw Away Accepted Materials:

Understanding how to load a dumpster is important, but knowing what materials are accepted is equally crucial. Avoid throwing prohibited items to prevent safety and environmental issues, as well as potential disposal fees.

• Always Acceptable: Most household junk, construction debris, and yard waste.
• Sometimes Acceptable: Electronics, appliances, mattresses (check local rules).
• Never Acceptable: Bulky items that could damage the bin or are prohibited by landfills (e.g., refrigerators, hot water tanks, tires, hazardous waste).

Keep Your Weight Limit in Mind:

Different dumpster sizes have varying weight limits. Stay within the specified limit mentioned in your quote to avoid overage fees.

Avoid Going Over the Fill Line:

Each bin has a fill line; ensure debris doesn't surpass it. Overfilled bins may result in a trip fee if the hauler can't pick it up.

Cover Your Bin When Not in Use:

Use a tarp secured with bungee cords or straps to prevent neighbors from adding items. Covering also protects against rain and snow, preventing additional weight.

Handling Specific Situations

Bad Weather Tips:

Cover the bin during bad weather to prevent rain or snow accumulation. This avoids added weight and potential fees. Ensure clear access for pickup in snowy conditions.

Avoid Additional Fees:

Follow rental period tips to avoid extra fees, such as no delivery/pickup, exceeding weight limits, improper filling, late pickups, or containing prohibited items.

Rental Period and Extensions

Schedule Your Pickup On Time:

Avoid extension fees by scheduling pickup before the rental period ends. Receive email reminders as your rental period approaches completion.

Need More Time? Let Us Know:

If unforeseen circumstances arise, inform us promptly. If possible, we may extend your rental period for a flat, daily rate.

Additional Steps in the Dumpster Rental Process

• Prepare for Delivery: Follow quick tips for a smooth dumpster drop-off.
• Order Another Dumpster: Swap out a full bin for a new one with our convenient service.
• Get Ready for Pickup: Fill out our online form when done, and we'll efficiently haul away the mess.

Prepare for Pickup



Follow these guidelines for a smooth dumpster return:

1. Securely close the dumpster door.
2. Ensure all debris is contained within the dumpster, without anything protruding over the top.
3. Verify that there are no prohibited items mixed in with your debris.
4. Make the container easily accessible to our truck throughout your scheduled pickup day.

Avoid Additional Fees

Stay cost-effective by adhering to these tips:

• Contact us before your rental period concludes to prevent additional fees.
• Be mindful of your weight limit; use our weight calculator to estimate debris weight.
• Notify us promptly of any changes to your plans to avoid cancellation or rescheduling fees.

Flexible Pickup Hours

While we operate from early morning to late evening, Monday through Friday, we cannot guarantee a specific pickup time. We'll do our best to accommodate your schedule.

Save time by conveniently scheduling your dumpster pickup online. Our goal is to make the process seamless for you.

Common Questions and Answers

• Dumpster Rental Overview:
• Convenient solution for trash disposal during projects.
• Ideal for maintaining a clean work environment.
• Roll-Off Dumpster:
• Rectangular container with wheels for easy delivery.
• Easily ordered online or over the phone.
• Choosing a Dumpster Rental Company:
• Consider customer service, sizes, reviews, and pricing.
• No set limit on the number of dumpsters you can rent.
• Permits and Requirements:
• Permits may be needed based on location.
• No special equipment or insurance required.
• Cost and Payment:
• Costs vary based on location, size, and rental period.
• Transparent pricing covers all essential factors.
• Payment due at the time of ordering, no deposit required.
• Dumpster Sizes and Dimensions:
• Available sizes from 16 to 23 cubic yards.
• Dumpster dimensions vary, typically 12 to 16 feet long.
• Dumpster Delivery:
• Delivery in one to three business days.
• No specific delivery times guaranteed unless you have chosen our 4 hour guaranteed slot option.
• Rental Period:
• Typically 7 to 10 days, extendable for a flat daily rate.
• Mindful cleanup to avoid extra fees.
• Requesting Pickup:
• Give us a call for pickup.
• Pickup occurs between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. local time.
• Preparation for Pickup:
• Ensure debris is inside the dumpster.
• Clear the area of obstacles for easy pickup.
• Customer Support:
• Team available for assistance throughout the process.