Unless you’re a professional contractor, chances are that you don’t have much experience with renting a dumpster. However, a dumpster rental is useful for more than just construction professionals; it can be very handy for homeowners, too.
From home renovation projects to cleaning up yard waste, renting a dumpster can make your project go a lot smoother. Knowing how to rent a dumpster can ensure that your project goes as smoothly as possible.
You might be thinking to yourself: “How hard can renting a container be?” It’s actually not very complicated, but there are definitely some things that you should know that will make the process a whole lot more efficient.
Here are five handy tips that will make your experience with renting a dumpster a success.
Figure out What Size You Need
The first thing you are going to want to do is figure out what size dumpster you need. Sure, you could call and rent any container, but what happens if you get one that is too small for your project, or you end up spending more money on a larger dumpster than you actually need? One of the most common mistakes people make when ordering a container is choosing the wrong size.
How can you tell what size you need? Here’s a general guideline:
- 10 yard dumpster. This size is great for smaller remodeling projects, such as a small bathroom or kitchen renovation or the cleanout of a medium-sized attic or basement. You can fit 10 cubic yards of waste in a 10 yard dumpster, which is around the same amount that the flatbed of three pickup trucks can hold.
- 20 yard dumpster. This dumpster can accommodate 20 cubic yards of waste, or the equivalent to six flatbeds of a truck. If you’re embarking on a medium-sized renovation or a bigger cleanup, such as the removal of a large deck or the carpet from large home, this size container will likely suit your needs.
- 30 yard dumpster. This is a good size for a major project, like a new addition to your home or the construction of a new building. You’ll be able to fit 30 cubic yards of waste in a 30 yard dumpster, or about nine flatbeds full of debris.
- 40 yard dumpster. This size is usually reserved for commercial projects; however, if you are going to be replacing all of the windows in your home or you are removing the siding, this could be the right option for you. You’ll be able to unload 40 cubic yards of waste in a container of this size, which is around the same amount that 12 pickup flatbeds can hold.
Know What Type of Debris You are Getting Rid Of
You also want to make sure you know what type of waste you are going to be disposing of. A lot of dumpster rental providers have limitations on the type of materials they will accept. For example, you might not be able to mix certain materials together, such as gravel and yard waste. Some companies simply follow the waste disposal rules that are set forth by the town; for instance, dangerous items, such as antifreeze, solvents, and pesticides, aren’t allowed to be placed in any type of dumpster.
Find Out About Drop Offs and Pickups
The entire point of renting a dumpster is to make your project easier. If the dumpster rental company you are considering can’t drop off or pick up the container within a timeframe that works for you, working with that company probably isn’t in your best interest. Make sure you find out about schedules, including drop off and pickup times. Also, ask what you need to do to let the company know that your container is ready to be removed from your property. You want to make sure that the process is as convenient for you as possible.
Choose a Good Location
While speaking of convenience, make sure you choose a location that works best for you – and for the dumpster rental company. In other words, you want the dumpster to be located within close proximity to your project so you don’t end up having to lug heavy material a far distance. You also want to ensure that the location you choose is easy for the company to access. It shouldn’t be blocked by any trees, shrubs, bushes, cars, or any other items that could prevent a smooth delivery and pickup.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your dumpster rental experience – and your entire project – will be efficient and effective. If you have questions or you aren’t sure about something, don’t be afraid to ask! Our friendly representatives will be more than happy to help you find the right dumpster to suit your specific needs.