Roll-off Dumpster Rental FAQs

A roll-off dumpster is a type of large, open-top container that is typically used for the temporary storage and disposal of waste materials. It is called a "roll-off" dumpster because it is rolled off of a special truck, which has a cable that slides the dumpster off or a hydraulic arm that lifts the dumpster and places it on the ground.

Roll-off dumpsters come in a variety of sizes and are commonly used by construction and demolition companies, as well as by businesses and individuals for the removal of large amounts of waste.

They are often placed in a convenient location on a job site or at a home or business and typically rented for a specific period of time before being picked up and taken away to be emptied and returned.

There are many types of projects that could require a roll-off dumpster.

People commonly use roll-off dumpsters for a range of significant home improvement and clean-out projects such as:

• Clean-outs: estate clean-out, decluttering before a move, spring cleaning, appliance removal, cleaning out a garage or basement, or attic, getting rid of damaged items after a flood, and disposal of old furniture or other large items

• Construction and demolition work: new construction, demolition, kitchen or bathroom remodels, home extensions, carpet or other flooring removals, roofing work, and more!

• Yard work: brush, branch, and stump removal, dirt removal, storm cleanups, or other large gardening and landscaping projects

These types of projects can generate a significant amount of debris, and a roll-off dumpster allows for easy and efficient collection and disposal of materials, making the project run more smoothly.

We offer different types of dumpsters depending on the materials you'll be disposing of, in order to comply with state and local regulations.

Here are some common types of dumpsters you can rent:

• household items dumpsters

• construction & demolition dumpsters

• concrete and other heavy debris dumpsters

• roofing dumpsters

• asphalt dumpsters

• yard waste dumpsters

• dirt dumpsters

If you have a mix of different materials, you may need to rent separate dumpsters in order to avoid overage or contamination fees. Recyclable materials like yard waste, dirt, concrete, or brick are better off in their own dumpster so they can be taken to the right facility. Particularly heavy or particularly light debris also often warrants a separate dumpster in order to keep costs low.

If you have unusual or hazardous materials and need help determining what materials cannot be mixed together, fill out a dumpster rental quote request, or contact us for free, zero-commitment advice from our friendly customer support team.

No, you cannot place any type of waste in a roll-off dumpster. Roll-off dumpsters are meant for bulky amounts of waste, such as construction debris, demolition debris, yard waste, or general household items. In order to protect the environment and abide by state and local laws, not all materials can be dumped in a dumpster.

Check out our helpful guide to see what you can and can’t throw into a dumpster. Generally, most items can be put in a dumpster as long as they do not qualify as hazardous materials. However, there are some specific local rules pertaining to specific items such as mattresses or tires for instance. It is always best to confirm with your dumpster rental company that the items you intend to discard are allowed.

Putting incorrect materials in the dumpster can lead to extra fees or fines, and can also pose a hazard to waste management workers. It is important to properly dispose of different types of waste to protect the environment and ensure the safety of those handling it.

Putting incorrect materials in a dumpster can lead to extra fees or fines, and can also pose a hazard to nature and to waste management workers. It is important to properly dispose of different types of waste to protect the environment and ensure the safety of those handling it.

For help discarding hazardous materials, reach out to your local, county or state government's solid waste management website. Don't know what hazardous materials are? Check out our helpful guide to see what you can and can't throw into a dumpster.

If you need help determining if your materials can go in a roll-off dumpster, or what materials can or cannot be mixed together, fill out a dumpster rental quote request, or contact us for free, zero-commitment advice from our friendly customer support team.

Sourgum Waste offers a wide range of dumpster sizes from 10 to 40 cubic yards. The size of the roll-off dumpster that you will need depends on the type and volume of waste materials that you have to dispose of.

• The 10 cubic yard roll-off dumpster is the smallest size. It fits in small driveways or tight areas and is great for small home projects.

• The 20 cubic yard roll-off dumpster makes it easy to throw material over the side or in the rear door. It is great for larger home projects or small construction projects.

• The 30 cubic yard roll-off dumpster can handle most construction and demolition projects. It's great for large amounts of bulky furniture.

• The 40 cubic yard roll-off dumpster is our largest size available. It is meant for large and ongoing home projects or construction sites.

The size of the roll-off dumpster that you will need depends on the volume of waste materials that you have to dispose of. Roll-off dumpsters come in a range of sizes, including 10 yard, 20 yard, 30 yard, and 40 yard containers.

The dumpster's name is equivalent to the volume it can hold. For example, a 10 yard dumpster can hold 10 cubic yards of debris.

To determine the size of the roll-off dumpster that you need, you should consider the amount of space that you have available for the dumpster's placement, as well as the amount of waste that you expect to discard.

• The 10 cubic yard roll-off dumpster fits the equivalent of 4 pickup truck beds. It is appropriate for single-room renovations, basement or garage clean-outs, a 250 sq ft deck replacement, or 1,500 sq ft of roofing.

• The 15 cubic yard roll-off dumpster fits the equivalent of 6 pickup truck beds. It is used often for heavy debris removal or smaller single-room renovations. It is also used for small cleanouts.

• The 20 cubic yard roll-off dumpster fits the equivalent of 8 pickup truck beds. It works great for a multiple-room renovation, multiple-room clean-out, a large deck or roof replacement, or a yard cleanup with small trees.

• The 30 cubic yard roll-off dumpster fits the equivalent of 12 pickup truck beds. It can handle major home renovation projects, new home constructions, large estate clean-outs, or the removal of trees and storm debris.

• The 40 cubic yard roll-off dumpster fits the equivalent of 16 pickup truck beds. Some projects that could require a 40-yard dumpster include home demolitions, new construction, commercial building clean-outs, and commercial landscaping projects.

You may also want to consider the weight of the waste materials, as each size of roll-off dumpster comes with a different weight limit.

Visit our dumpster rental sizing guide for more information on roll-off dumpster size-specific questions.

Different size dumpsters come with different weight limits. Weight limits are based on US tons, where 1 ton is equal to 2,000 pounds. A weight limit defines the amount of material that you can put into the dumpster at the pre-defined disposal rate.

The dumpster's name is equivalent to the volume it can hold. For example, a 10 Yard Dumpster can hold 10 cubic yards of debris.

• The 10-yard dumpster typically holds 2 tons (4,000 lbs) of weight

• The 20-yard dumpster holds approximately 3 tons (6,000 lbs) of weight

• The 30-yard dumpster averages 4 tons of weight (8,000 lbs)

• Lastly, the 40-yard dumpster typically carries 5 tons of weight (10,000 lbs)

If you need more weight added to the limit on your rental, we are happy to do so as long as local regulations permit. We recommend pre-paying for additional weight during the ordering process, rather than being charged an overage after the waste has been dumped. If you do go over your weight limit, that's ok! We will charge you the pro-rated, pre-communicated overage fee.

Some dumpsters, such as concrete dumpsters or yard waste dumpsters don't have weight limits and may come with a flat rate instead.

If you need help figuring out a weight estimate, you can always give us a call at (732) 366-9355 and we'll happily help you find the right limit for your project.

If you know the type of debris you are removing, you have already completed the important first step!

There are a few different options for evaluating waste weight and size.

First, if you have construction and demolition debris, check out this chart from the U.S. Green Building Council that has conversions from pounds, tons, and cubic yards for common construction debris.

For other types of debris, visit our dumpster rental sizing guide which gives you the typical measurements and equivalent volume in pickup truck beds for every size of dumpster.

Also, check out our helpful guide to see what you can and can't throw into a dumpster, to avoid overestimating how much space you need.

If you're still unsure, you are welcome to contact us at (732) 366-9355 for help evaluating the size of your debris and choosing the right dumpster rental size and weight limit.

With Sourgum Waste, the price you see at checkout is the final price you pay! All taxes and fees are included, and any potential overages are communicated before you check out.

The price of your dumpster rental depends on multiple variables: service location, material type, dumpster size, the weight of the debris, and duration of the rental.

• Location: Pricing changes by area. Cities and counties have different waste flow rules and regulations that affect the price, making it very location-specific. Usually, Sourgum Waste's pricing is set at the county level, but it can get even more granular in some areas.

• Material: There are different disposal rates for different materials. By bringing your dumpsters to the appropriate facility, we ensure that you get the best price and that it's disposed of in the most environmentally-friendly manner.

• Size: This one is pretty simple - the larger the dumpster, the more it will cost. Sometimes, getting 2 small dumpsters can actually be more cost-efficient than getting one large one.

• Weight: The weight of debris that you put into a dumpster is perhaps the most important factor in determining the price you'll pay for the rental. This is why estimating the weight of your debris properly is so important. When you order a dumpster, you pre-purchase a discounted amount of weight, and if you go over your weight limit, you'll be charged a prorated rate for the extra weight.

• Duration: Our dumpster rentals come with an included rental period, which varies based on your materials and location. If you need less time - no worries, just call us so we can pick up that dumpster and take it off your hands. If you need more time - that's ok too. Let us know at least 48h before the end of your rental so we can set you up with an affordable daily extension.

Get a free, fast quote by filling out our quick form.

To estimate how long you'll need a roll-off dumpster, consider the following factors:

• The size of the project: The larger the project, the longer the dumpster rental duration will need to be.

• The amount of waste generated: The more waste generated, the longer the dumpster will be needed, and the dumpster will likely need to be switched out a few times.

• The frequency of waste removal: If waste is generated at a faster rate, the dumpster will need to be emptied more frequently.

• The type of waste: Certain types of waste will take longer to fill up the dumpster, while others will fill it up more quickly.

It's always best to overestimate how long you'll need the dumpster to ensure that you have enough time to complete your project without running out of space for waste.

If you are working with a contractor or subcontractor, ask them to help you estimate the duration of the project, then give yourself a little more time - it is not uncommon for construction projects to go past their target completion date.

With Sourgum Waste, it's easy to order a roll-off dumpster. Head to our roll-off dumpster ordering page and enter your rental information when prompted. From start to finish, it takes about 2 minutes to place your dumpster order online.

For returning customers, the process is even simpler. Sign in to your customer dashboard to view your past orders, manage open requests, and place new ones.

If prefer to order via phone or email, or still have a few lingering questions, please contact us. Be ready to provide us with some basic information about your waste removal needs, including the type and amount of waste materials that you need to dispose of, the location where you want the dumpster placed, and the length of time that you will need the dumpster. Based on this information, we'll provide you with a quote for the rental of the dumpster and walk you through placing the order.

Want step-by-step instructions? Head to our how to rent a dumpster guide.

When renting a dumpster, there are a few key pieces of information that you will need to provide in order to ensure that you order the appropriate size and type of dumpster for your project.

The first piece of information you will need to provide is the location and starting date of your dumpster rental. Not only will we ask for an address, but also the precise location on your property where the dumpster needs to be dropped off so that you can successfully load it. This is important so that we can ensure that the dumpster can be easily accessed and loaded by you, the customer. It will also help us determine whether or not any permit requirements will be necessary.

The second piece of information that you will need to provide is the type and amount of debris that you will be disposing of. This will help us determine the appropriate size of dumpster that you need, and the corresponding weight limit. For example, if you are doing a renovation project, you will likely have a lot of drywall, wood, and other construction debris that will need to be disposed of. In contrast, if you are doing a yard cleanup, you may have mostly leaves, grass clippings, and other vegetative debris. Knowing the type and amount of debris that you will be generating will help us determine the appropriate type and size dumpster for your project and how we will be disposing of your waste.

Last but not least, you'll need to know the approximate duration for the dumpster rental and if you expect to need the container to be switched out at any point.

All of this information will provide us with what we need to give you the most appropriate recommendation and best pricing for your bulky waste disposal.

If you need to make a change to your order before it is delivered, please do so as early as you can.

Just sign in to your customer dashboard to manage your open order and request any changes. If the change you'd like to make is not available on the dashboard, or if you prefer to speak to someone, give us a call at (732) 366-9355. Make sure you are prepared with either your order number or your email or telephone number and service location so that we can best assist you.

Some common changes that can be made to a roll-off dumpster order include:

• Changing the delivery date: If you need to have the dumpster delivered on a different day, we will need to know the new date and time.

• Changing the size of the dumpster: If you need a larger or smaller dumpster than what you originally ordered, we will need to know the new size.

• Changing the pickup date: If you need to have the dumpster picked up on a different day than originally scheduled, we will need to know the new pickup date.

Here are a few tips to make sure you have a great delivery experience:

• Clear the way: We'll need about 60 feet of space to deliver the container. Please clear your desired drop-off location, and move any obstructions that would prevent the truck from having access to it such as moving cars, toys, flower pots, etc...

• Look up: Most trucks need about 23 feet of vertical clearance to raise the dumpster and place it. However, we do have more compact trucks that do not need as much clearance. If you think there will be an issue, please call and let us know.

• Check about permits: If your township requires a permit to use a dumpster, make sure that you have all of the appropriate paperwork filled out and submitted! If you are placing the dumpster on a public road, you will very likely need a permit. If it's going to be on your property, it depends on your municipality.

Not planning on being home? No problem. Let us know in advance where you would like the dumpster placed and any special instructions, we will make a note of it in the delivery instructions and triple-check that the location looks good on Google Maps before sending the dumpster your way.

Some towns require a permit to rent a dumpster, but not all. Permitting drastically changes from one area to another. Some towns only require a permit if you plan to place your dumpster on a public street. Some, if you want to place it in your driveway. Others don't require a permit for dumpsters at all. Some charge fees and others don't.

A good place to start to find out if you do need a permit is our online dumpster rental permits tool. Enter the name of your town, and if we have any information relative to dumpster permits in your area, we'll display it right in the tool. You can also check the permits section of your local government's website.

If you find that your town requires a permit to rent a dumpster, applying is generally easy. Simply call the permitting department's number and a township clerk will provide you with all the information you need. Once you have completed the form and, if applicable, paid the fee, your permit is normally issued within 24 hours. Once you have the permit you are all set to rent a dumpster.

If you have an HOA, you may need to get their approval as well, even if you were approved for a dumpster permit.

If you need help filing for a dumpster rental permit we are happy to help you, simply contact us. You can even pay a small fee to have a Sourgum Waste team member do the whole dumpster permit process for you! Just give us a call at (732) 366-9355.

Roll-off dumpsters are delivered by special trucks. The dumpster is slowly rolled off the back of the truck onto the ground at the service location. For that reason, the truck typically needs a little more than double the dumpster length and height to be able to deliver it.

If you need or would like your dumpster placed on public property, such as a street, you must check with your local township to see if any permits are required.

Here are a few tips to make sure you have a great dumpster drop-off experience:

• Clear the way: We'll need about 60 feet of space to deliver the container. Please clear your desired drop-off location, and move any obstructions that would prevent the truck from having access to it such as moving cars, toys, flower pots, etc...

• Look up: Most trucks need about 23 feet of vertical clearance to raise the dumpster and place it. However, we do have more compact trucks that do not need as much clearance. If you think there will be an issue, please call and let us know.

• Provide some wood: If you are worried about the weight of the dumpster damaging an older or more delicate driveway, leave some planks of wood at the drop-off location. We will use them to roll the dumpster wheels onto, to protect your property.

• Enjoy your day: No one needs to be home for the delivery. Due to changing traffic conditions and delivery schedules, your dumpster may arrive at any time throughout the day. You can sign up for text message updates to be notified when your dumpster is on its way.

Delivering a dumpster is not easy, but our drivers are highly trained professionals, and they know how to make it easy on you!

Roll-off dumpsters have two types of door styles. Here are the basic steps you need to take to open and close both of them.

• Dumpsters with handle-style locks: Some dumpsters come with safety chains around their locks. Your first step is to remove the chains from the roll-off dumpster locks---but make sure you keep them in sight, so you remember to replace them later. Search for any safety pins, hooks, or latches and remove them from their holders. These will usually be close to the dumpster's handle. Raise the handle of the door and you'll see the door pop open by itself. To close the door, all you need to do is give the dumpster door a firm push shut and the handle will fall back down. Before replacing the safety pin or latch, replace any chains you removed first.

• Dumpsters with ratchet style locks: Dumpsters with a ratchet style lock are a little trickier to open, but it's nothing a little elbow grease can't easily fix. As above, you'll first want to remove any safety chains holding the dumpster together. Find the safety pin or latch and remove them, as well. Find the ratcheting device and push the small switch inside the handle in, so that it hits the gear. Raise and lower the ratchet repeatedly until the dumpster door is released. To close, hold the dumpster door closed and then ratchet the hook back into place.

To load a roll-off dumpster, you will need to follow some basic guidelines to ensure the best safety and efficiency throughout the process.

First, make sure that the dumpster is placed on a level surface to prevent it from tipping over. Next, use a ramp or other loading device to safely place the waste inside the dumpster.

Once you start loading, avoid overloading the dumpster by evenly distributing the waste and never placing any debris above the fill line. Put your heavy waste items at the bottom of your dumpster so they keep the weight properly distributed. Also put your bulkiest items towards the bottom so they do not stick out, which makes it unsafe for transport. Flatten any cardboard and break down other items of trash; disassemble swing sets, dressers, and other large items so that they will take up less space. Fill the remaining gaps in the dumpster with smaller, lighter, and softer items.

Last but not least, do not throw items that could potentially cause harm to waste management workers, such as sharp objects or hazardous materials.

An overloaded container happens when your trash or recycling materials exceed the top rim of the bin or cover the ground around the container.

Overloading your dumpster poses a risk to drivers on the road. All of our dumpsters get tarped upon pick up, so if the driver cannot place the tarp over the dumpster then we will not be able to pick it up. This can result in a trip charge and you'll have to level off the dumpster before we can attempt to pick it up again.

Instead, if your dumpster is overloaded, see if you can dispose of some of the items through your regular trash collection service. Or, can you drop off certain items to be recycled? If you have enough extra trash, you may want to order a second dumpster and switch out the first. Remember, while this will add to your overall cost, ordering a second dumpster and sticking to the fill line is less costly than incurring trip charges and overage fees due to an overfilled container.

Our roll-off container rentals come with a complimentary rental period which can be referred to in the order confirmation email and in your customer dashboard. You can keep the dumpster for the full rental period or call anytime before for a speedy pick-up.

If you need the dumpster longer, it is simple to extend your rental period. Either login to your customer dashboard or give us a call at (732) 366-9355 to request your extension. We will charge a small flat daily rate until you are ready to part ways with the dumpster.

Just let us know when you're done with your dumpster and we will come to get it out of the way for you. Either login to your customer dashboard or give us a call at (732) 366-9355 to schedule your pickup.

No one needs to be home, but you can request to be notified once the driver is on their way.

Pick-up is simple. Just let us know when you're done with your dumpster and will come to get it out of the way for you. No one needs to be home for the pickup.

To ensure a successful pickup, please:

• Clear the space - We need 60 feet of space in front of, and 23 feet of vertical clearance above your desired drop-off location.

• Remove obstacles - Clear the drop-off location and the truck’s path from obstructions, and move any vehicles the night before.

• Stay below the line - Do not fill the container above the top rim, this will incur overage fees.

• Keep the bad stuff out - Check your pickup confirmation email for the list of prohibited items in your area. Make sure to keep any prohibited items out of the dumpster to avoid an unsuccessful pickup or overage fees.

We will then bring your dumpster to the appropriate disposal facility for proper treatment. If your dumpster is within the weight limit, you're all set! If the dumpster went over the included weight limit, we will charge the prorated and agreed-upon overage disposal fee.

After a successful pickup and disposal, you will receive your payment receipt by email.

To avoid paying extra fees for a dumpster rental, here are a few tips:

1. Rent the right size: Make sure you rent a dumpster that is the appropriate size for your project. If the dumpster is too small, you may need to rent an additional one, which will result in extra fees.

2. Dispose of prohibited items properly: Some items, such as hazardous waste and electronics, may require special disposal methods and may result in additional fees if not disposed of properly.

3. Rent for the right amount of time: Rent the dumpster for the amount of time that you actually need it. If you keep it for longer than the agreed-upon time frame, you may incur extra fees.

4. Don't overfill the dumpster: Overfilling the dumpster may result in additional fees, as the rental company may need to make special arrangements to dispose of the excess waste.

5. Compare prices from multiple companies: Before committing to a rental, compare prices from several companies to ensure that you are getting the best deal. Ask for an all-inclusive quote and insist on totally transparent pricing. Many companies will quote you a low starting price with no weight included, then pile on fees with every item you drop into the dumpster. You can always count on Sourgum Waste for competitive rates and the most transparent pricing.