What Size Dumpster Do I Need?

One of the most important questions to ask is whether the dumpster will hold all of your debris. It's always better to choose a slightly larger dumpster than risk running out of space — having to order a second dumpster can double your cost.

Keep in mind: nothing can be sticking out over the top of the container. If you’re disposing of large items like furniture or appliances, check the dimensions of the dumpster to make sure everything will fit.

A general rule:

• One full pickup truck load equals roughly 4 cubic yards of material.
• So, if you have about 5 truckloads, you’re looking at around 20 cubic yards of debris.

Also note:

• Dumpsters 10 yards and larger come with a rear walk-in door for easy loading.
• 6 yard dumpsters must be loaded from the top.

Once you've chosen a size, it's important to ensure there's enough space on your property for the dumpster to be delivered. We provide wooden boards upon request to place under the dumpster to protect your driveway or yard.

Here are a few guidelines:

• Driveway placement: No permit or waiver required.
• Yard placement: A waiver may be needed.
• Street placement: A permit might be required — call us for details.
• Ensure there are no low-hanging wires or tree branches that could obstruct the truck.

You can now also view our dumpsters in your own space with Augmented Reality (AR) on our dumpster rental page.

We use three types of delivery trucks based on the dumpster size:

• Roll-Off Trucks (10–30 yard containers)
• Needs ~60 feet of length and 18 feet of vertical clearance

• Hook Lift Trucks (10–15 yard containers)
  
• Needs ~50 feet of length and 12 feet of vertical clearance

• Container Trucks (front and read load yard containers)
• Needs ~12 feet of clearance

Not sure if a dumpster will fit? Give us a call — we can check your property using satellite images to ensure proper placement.

While we aim to make pricing simple and transparent, there are a few additional fees you should be aware of:

• Overweight charges: If you exceed the included tonnage.
• Rental extension fees: Most rentals include 7 days free, with a $10/day fee afterward.
• Special item fees: Items like mattresses, tires, or appliances containing refrigerant (like Freon) may incur extra charges.



At All American Waste, we don’t automatically pick up your dumpster at the end of the rental. Instead, we give you the flexibility to finish your project and call us when you’re ready — just give us 24 hours’ notice for pickup.

• Mattresses & Box Springs – $30-$75 each
• Car Tires – $20 each
• Truck Tires – $35 each
• Propane Tanks (empty) – $35 each
• Batteries (Automotive, power tool, e-device [such as scooters]) – $50 per item
• Items containing or that have contained refrigerant (like Freon) (e.g., refrigerators, AC units) – $50 per item. Other "white" appliances such as stoves, dryers, washers etc. are accepted at no extra charge.
  

Some items are strictly prohibited due to safety or environmental regulations. These include:

• Liquid Paint (empty/dried cans are OK with the cover removed)
• Asbestos
• Poisons or Toxins
• Liquid Waste
• Chemicals (liquid or dry)
• Combustible Items
• Car Batteries
• Lithium-Ion Batteries
• Gasoline
• Electronic devices (Vape pens, computers, tablets, etc.)

Other prohibited items include flammables, nonempty propane tanks, oil, solar panels, batteries of any kind, equipment or large excavator tires.



If you're ever unsure, just ask — we’re happy to clarify what can or can't go into your rental.

This guide should give you a solid starting point, but we're always here to help. Call our friendly and knowledgeable team at (800) 826-7952  to get expert advice and ensure your dumpster rental is stress-free from start to finish.