The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Dumpster
Ready to get rid of waste but not sure how to rent a dumpster? Learn everything you need to know about dumpster rentals with Dumpsters.com.
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How Do Dumpster Rentals Work?
We make renting a dumpster easy with our five-step process:
How to Order a Dumpster in 5 Simple Steps
So, how does a dumpster rental work? Let’s get into the details. By the time we get to the last step, you’ll be a pro at renting with Dumpsters.com.
1. Call or Order Online
At Dumpsters.com, we believe in giving you options. That's why we offer both online and phone ordering for your dumpster rental needs. Need advice on which bin to rent? Talk to a real expert who will help you through the rental process. Don’t want to bother with a call? Skip the phone altogether and seamlessly rent a dumpster online.
When you’re ready to order, have the following details on hand:
- Your delivery address, including zip code
- Type and amount of debris
- The date you need a dumpster and for how long
- Any unique requirements for the project
Transparent Pricing
With us, you’ll receive a transparent price that bundles your delivery, pickup, dumpster rental period, disposal fees and weight limit. Unlike companies that tack on additional service fees at checkout, our price is bundled upfront, so what you see is what you’ll pay.
2. Choose a Dumpster Size
Selecting the right container size is one of the most important steps in the dumpster rental process. You don’t want to overload your bin and have items hanging over the sides, but you also don’t want to overspend on a dumpster that's too large.
We offer dumpster rental sizes from 10 to 40 yards to fit any mess. When you order a dumpster, your bin will come with a weight limit. Landfills charge disposal costs by the ton, so depending on the size of your container, you’ll have a weight limit between 1 and 6 tons. If you’re not sure how much your debris weighs, use our weight calculators to estimate your waste tonnage or get in touch with our experts for a recommended dumpster size.
What happens if I go over my dumpster's weight limit?
Landfills charge disposal costs by the ton, so going over your weight limit results in a per-ton overage fee. If you go over, you’re only charged for your extra weight. So going over your limit by half a ton means you’ll only pay for that half, not the whole extra ton. You’ll never pay for more than what you need.
3. Select Placement
Choose a flat, paved area for your dumpster delivery. If you’re working on a home project, your driveway is usually ideal. On jobsites, a designated waste area works better. We can also deliver your dumpster to the street, but you may need a permit ahead of time. Check with your local municipality for permitting information.
4. Set Delivery Date
We can typically deliver your dumpster within five days of placing your order, depending on your location. In some areas, we may even be able to offer same-day or next-day delivery depending on our inventory. We schedule our deliveries based on the most fuel-efficient routes, so your bin can arrive at any time during your delivery day. Consider scheduling your delivery in advance to ensure your bin arrives exactly when you need it.
When do I pay for my dumpster rental?
Once you've selected the right roll off dumpster size, confirmed the weight limit, and chosen your delivery date, you’ll complete your payment. Then we’ll handle the rest — making sure your dumpster is delivered promptly and ready for use.
How should I prepare for my delivery date?
We’ll deliver your bin to your chosen delivery spot on your specified date. You don’t have to worry about being present when your dumpster arrives. All you need to do is follow these simple dumpster delivery tips: clear the drop-off spot of obstacles, unlock any necessary gates and, if you like, mark the spot with plywood or cones.
5. Schedule Pickup
When you approach the end of your dumpster rental period, we’ll send email reminders to schedule your pickup. Once you’ve finished loading your dumpster, schedule a pickup online with our Service Dashboard. We won’t come to get your dumpster until you schedule a pickup, even if it’s the end of your rental period.
As you decide on your pickup day, keep these things in mind:
- Be prepared for your dumpster to be removed at any time throughout the day.
- We’ll do our best to provide a time of arrival, but our routes are based on fuel efficiency.
- Make sure your dumpster is accessible and not overloaded with debris.
How Dumpsters.com Simplifies the Process
World-Class Customer Service
Experience a stress-free cleanup with our expert support and simple Service Dashboard.
Delivered & Picked Up as Promised
With our 98% on-time service rate, we make sure you have a dumpster when and where you need it.
Reliable Service for a Fair Price
You can count on us to provide great service at great rates so you never overspend on your cleanup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I order my dumpster online or by phone?
Calling us or ordering online are both easy ways to order your dumpster. We recommend calling if you’re not sure which dumpster to rent or you have questions about your debris. Already know exactly which bin your project needs? Order online with ease.
Do I need a permit to rent a dumpster?
Depending on where you keep your dumpster, you may need a permit ahead of time. Typically you don’t need a permit if you keep your bin on private property, like your driveway or jobsite. If you need to keep your container on the street, you may need a permit from your local municipality.
What can I toss in my dumpster rental?
You can toss a variety of accepted waste in a roll off dumpster. Throw away household junk, like wooden furniture and old toys, or yard debris, including grass and dirt. You can also toss construction materials, such as lumber and concrete. There are prohibited items you can never throw in a bin, including flammable and hazardous waste.
Where is the best place to put a dumpster?
You need to keep your dumpster on a flat, paved surface. We recommend keeping your bin on private property, like your driveway or a designated waste area on your jobsite. If you need to place the container in a public area, such as a street, you might need to get a permit from the city.
How soon can you deliver my dumpster?
We can usually deliver your dumpster within five days of placing your order. It's always best to reach out early to secure the dumpster you need, when you need it. While we may be able to provide same-day or next-day delivery in some locations, it's not a guarantee.
Do I need to be on-site when you deliver my dumpster?
No, you don’t need to be there when we deliver your dumpster. We'll take detailed delivery instructions when you order so we can still deliver your bin even if you aren't around. On the day of delivery, just make sure the drop-off spot is free of obstacles and any gates are unlocked and open.
How long can I keep my dumpster rental?
Our typical dumpster rental period is seven to 10 days. However, we can accommodate shorter rental periods if you only need your container for a weekend. Need to keep your bin past 10 days? Reach out to our team. Usually you can hold on to your dumpster for a flat daily rate.