Dumpster rental cost is heavily influenced by the size of the dumpster you choose. Renting a dumpster that is too small can lead to overage fees or the need for a second rental, while choosing one that is too large may increase costs unnecessarily.
This guide explains dumpster rental cost by size, what each dumpster size is typically used for, and how to choose the right option for your project.
Why Dumpster Size Affects Rental Cost
Dumpster size affects cost because larger dumpsters:
- Hold more debris
- Have higher disposal and hauling costs
- Include higher weight limits
- Require larger delivery trucks
As dumpster size increases, rental prices generally increase as well.
10-Yard Dumpster Rental Cost
A 10-yard dumpster is one of the smallest standard dumpster sizes available and is commonly used for small residential projects.
Average 10-Yard Dumpster Cost
$250–$400
Common Uses
• Small garage cleanouts
• Minor bathroom or kitchen renovations
• Yard debris removal
• Small furniture disposal
This size is ideal for projects with limited debris and restricted space.
15-Yard Dumpster Rental Cost
A 15-yard dumpster provides slightly more capacity than a 10-yard dumpster and is suitable for medium-sized cleanouts.
Average 15-Yard Dumpster Cost
$300–$450
Common Uses
• Basement cleanouts
• Small roofing projects
• Flooring removal
• Light remodeling projects
This size offers a balance between capacity and affordability.
20-Yard Dumpster Rental Cost
A 20-yard dumpster is one of the most commonly rented sizes for residential use.
Average 20-Yard Dumpster Cost
$350–$550
Common Uses
• Home renovations
• Roofing projects
• Large garage or attic cleanouts
• Deck removal
This size is popular because it handles a wide range of projects without significantly increasing costs.
30-Yard Dumpster Rental Cost
A 30-yard dumpster is used for larger projects that generate significant debris.
Average 30-Yard Dumpster Cost
$450–$700
Common Uses
• Major home renovations
• Commercial cleanouts
• Construction debris removal
• Whole-home cleanouts
This size is best for projects where debris volume is substantial.
40-Yard Dumpster Rental Cost
A 40-yard dumpster is the largest standard size available and is typically used for commercial or large-scale projects.
Average 40-Yard Dumpster Cost
$600–$800 or more
Common Uses
• New construction projects
• Large demolition jobs
• Commercial renovations
• Industrial cleanouts
This size is generally unnecessary for most residential projects unless extensive debris is expected.
Dumpster Size and Weight Limits
Each dumpster size includes a weight limit. Exceeding the weight limit may result in additional charges.
Typical weight limits include:
• 10-yard dumpster: 1–2 tons
• 20-yard dumpster: 2–4 tons
• 30-yard dumpster: 4–6 tons
• 40-yard dumpster: 6–8 tons
Overage fees often range from $50 to $100 per additional ton.
Choosing the Right Dumpster Size
Selecting the correct dumpster size helps avoid unnecessary costs.
Consider the following:
- Type of debris
- Project scope
- Available space
- Weight of materials
Heavier materials such as concrete or roofing shingles may require a smaller dumpster due to weight restrictions.
Dumpster Rental Cost Differences for Heavy Materials
Some materials increase rental costs even in smaller dumpsters.
Materials that add weight quickly include:
• Concrete
• Brick
• Roofing shingles
• Dirt or soil
In these cases, a smaller dumpster may be required despite the volume of debris.
Residential Dumpster Rental Cost by Size
Residential dumpster rentals typically use 10-yard to 30-yard dumpsters.
• Small residential projects: $250–$400
• Medium residential projects: $350–$550
• Large residential projects: $450–$700
Choosing the appropriate size helps control overall costs.
Commercial Dumpster Rental Cost by Size
Commercial projects often require larger dumpsters.
• Medium commercial dumpsters: $500–$700
• Large commercial dumpsters: $600–$1,000 or more
Commercial rentals may also involve longer rental durations and higher disposal fees.
Cost Comparison: One Large Dumpster vs Multiple Small Dumpsters
Renting one larger dumpster is often more cost-effective than renting multiple smaller dumpsters.
Benefits of a single larger dumpster:
• One delivery fee
• One pickup fee
• Fewer overage risks
However, space limitations may affect this choice.
How Dumpster Size Impacts Delivery and Placement
Larger dumpsters require more space for delivery and placement.
Placement considerations include:
• Driveway width
• Clearance for delivery trucks
• Surface protection
Limited space may restrict the maximum dumpster size available.
Common Mistakes When Choosing Dumpster Size
Mistakes that increase costs include:
• Underestimating debris volume
• Ignoring weight limits
• Choosing size based on price alone
• Not accounting for heavy materials
Proper planning reduces the risk of unexpected fees.
Summary: Dumpster Rental Cost by Size
Dumpster rental costs increase as dumpster size increases due to higher hauling, disposal, and weight limits. Most residential projects use 10-yard to 20-yard dumpsters, while larger renovations and commercial projects require 30-yard or 40-yard dumpsters.
Understanding dumpster size pricing helps renters choose the most cost-effective option for their project.