How to Choose the Right Dumpster Size for Your Project

We’ve seen it all – home clean outs, renovations, yard overhauls – you name it. One question we hear a lot is, “How do I pick the right dumpster size?”

Dumpster Sizes Guide

To help you get started, we’ve created a quick guide with detailed steps to help you choose the perfect size for your project.

1. Estimate Your Debris Volume

Start by picturing your junk in terms of pickup truck loads – it’s a great way to visualize. A standard pickup bed holds about 2-3 cubic yards.

Here’s a quick guide:

• 20-Yard Dumpster (20 cubic yards): Takes 6-8 pickup loads. Ideal for bigger clean outs, like a whole-house purge or light construction debris.
• 25-Yard Dumpster (25 cubic yards): Handles 8-11 pickup loads. Built for major projects like full home renovations or large demolition jobs..

Not sure how much you’ve got? Walk us through your project, and we’ll help you nail it down.

2. Match the Dumpster to Your Debris Type

What you’re throwing out matters as much as how much.

Here’s how debris impacts size:

• Light, bulky debris (furniture, boxes, household junk): Fills space quickly, so choose a larger dumpster even if the weight is low. Our 20- and 25-yard dumpsters will work, but bulky items will take up space fast. If you fill your dumpster before you’re done with the cleanup, contact us! We’ll place your order for a new dumpster, schedule to remove the full dumpster, and replace it with another dumpster that is empty
• Heavy remodeling debris (drywall, wood, flooring): Packs tighter and heavier, so a medium-sized 20-yard dumpster typically works best.
• General construction debris (shingles, lumber, insulation): Often heavier and denser; choose your size based on project scale.
• Office clean outs and storage areas (paper, cardboard, office furniture): Bulky and varied; larger dumpsters handle these jobs best.

3. Check Your Available Space

Dumpsters need a spot to sit – usually a driveway or yard. Measure your space:

• 20-Yard: 16’L x 7’W x 5’H
• 25-Yard: 16’L x 7’W x 6’H

We deliver with care at EPIC Dumpster Rental, but give us a heads-up if your spot’s tricky.

4. Account for Weight Limits

Each dumpster has a weight cap. A $110 fee applies per ton to overweight loads.

• 20-Yard: Up to 3 tons – perfect for mixed debris or bigger loads like roofing or flooring.
• 25-Yard: Up to 4 tons – built for massive hauls like construction sites and whole-home gutting.

Ready to Rent with EPIC?

Choosing the right dumpster size comes down to volume, debris type, space, and weight – with a little planning for the unexpected. At EPIC Dumpster Rental, we offer 20 and 25-yard options, delivered fast and priced right.

Still unsure? Call us today – we’ll walk you through it and get your project rolling with the perfect dumpster!