What Size Dumpster Do I Need?
Choosing the wrong dumpster size is one of the most common mistakes people make. Go too small and you're either cramming things in or paying for a second dumpster. Go too big and you're paying for capacity you don't need.
Here's how to get it right.
Understanding Dumpster Sizes
Dumpster sizes are measured in cubic yards—that's how much volume they hold. Here's what the common sizes look like:
10-yard dumpster: About 12 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 3.5 feet high. Holds roughly 3 pickup truck loads of debris. Small footprint, often fits in a standard driveway.
15-yard dumpster: About 14 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 4.5 feet high. Holds 4-5 pickup truck loads. Good middle ground between capacity and size.
20-yard dumpster: About 22 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 4.5 feet high. Holds 6-8 pickup truck loads. The most popular size for home projects.
30-yard dumpster: About 22 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 6 feet high. Holds 9-12 pickup truck loads. For large projects or commercial work.
Size Recommendations by Project Type
Based on what we typically see with Boise-area projects:
The Pickup Truck Estimation Method
If you've ever loaded a pickup truck, you can estimate dumpster size:
One heaping pickup truck load equals roughly 3 cubic yards of debris. A level load is about 2 cubic yards.
So if you're looking at your garage and thinking "that's probably 4-5 truck loads to the dump," you're looking at about 12-15 cubic yards of debris. A 15-yard dumpster would work, or a 20-yard if you want extra room.
This method isn't exact, but it gives you a reasonable starting point.
When to Go Bigger
Consider sizing up if:
You're between sizes. If your estimate puts you right between a 15-yard and 20-yard, go with the 20. The price difference is usually less than the cost of a second dumpster if you run out of space.
You haven't done a thorough inventory. People consistently underestimate how much stuff they have. If you haven't really dug into the project yet, add a buffer.
Bulky items are involved. Furniture, mattresses, and large items take up more space than their weight suggests. They don't pack efficiently.
The project might expand. "While we're at it" is a common phrase during cleanouts. If there's a chance the scope grows, plan for it.
When a Smaller Dumpster Works
A smaller dumpster might be the right choice when:
Space is limited. If your driveway is small or access is tight, a 10-yard might be your only option regardless of debris volume.
Materials are heavy. If you're disposing of concrete, roofing, or other heavy materials, you'll hit weight limits before volume limits. A smaller dumpster with appropriate weight allowance may be better.
Budget is tight. If you're certain about the amount of debris and price is a concern, a smaller size saves money. Just be confident in your estimate.
Volume vs. Weight: Both Matter
Remember that dumpsters have both a volume limit (size) and a weight limit. You can hit either one first:
Light, bulky debris (furniture, household items): You'll typically fill the volume before hitting weight limits.
Heavy, dense debris (concrete, roofing, dirt): You'll hit weight limits with the dumpster only partially full.
When you get a quote, make sure you understand both the volume size and the included weight allowance. This helps you choose appropriately.
The Bottom Line
For most Boise homeowners doing a cleanout or renovation, a 15 or 20-yard dumpster is the sweet spot. It's big enough to handle typical projects without being excessive.
When in doubt, describe your project to the rental company. We've seen thousands of projects and can usually estimate pretty accurately what you'll need.
It's better to have a little extra space than to run out. But you also don't need to pay for a 30-yard when a 15 will do. Finding that balance is what we help with.
Not Sure What Size You Need?
Tell us about your project and we'll recommend the right size. Free advice, no obligation.
Call (208) 361-1982