Whether it’s a renovation project, new construction, home cleanout, furniture removal, or any other type of waste or debris removal project, a junk removal service or dumpster rental are the top two solutions for the job.
\n\n\nBut, when is it better to rent a dumpster vs. hiring a junk removal company, and vice versa?
\n\nLet’s explore the difference between the two and determine which is best for your situation.
\n\n
When you’d prefer to clear out the junk/debris yourself, renting a dumpster is the way to go.
\n\nIt’s a simple process that involves calling the dumpster rental company, choosing a container size, having it dropped off at your property, filling it up, and having it hauled away.
\n\nIn some cases, such as having the dumpster dropped off on the side of a city street, you may also have to secure a permit.
\n\nThe dumpster rental company can help determine if this is necessary in your case.
\n\nRoll-off dumpsters come in several capacities, including the most common container sizes: 10, 20, 30 and 40 yard bins.
\n\nWhen renting a dumpster, “yards” is referring to the “cubic yard” capacity of the dumpster.
\n\nFor reference, a 10 yard dumpster is ideal for a garage or shed cleanout, while a 40 yard dumpster is the best solution for construction projects or complete re-roofing jobs.
\n\nThe dumpster rental company can help you choose the perfect container for the job.
\n\n
Find out which dumpster size is right for you:
\n\n\n\nMany dumpster rental companies are focused on eco-friendly waste removal, so most of the debris you toss in the dumpster will head to recycling centers.
\n\nThis is particularly true for “clean loads” containing all of the same recyclable materials, such as concrete or asphalt shingles.
\n\nDumpsters are heavy, particularly when filled up with junk and debris.
\n\nThere are two main things to consider when it comes to dumpster weight: protecting your driveway/property and avoiding exceeding the weight limit.
\n\nA roll-off dumpster can easily weigh several tons once filled with debris.
\n\nFor example, a single layer of shingles torn off a 1,500-square-foot roof as part of a re-roofing project can easily weigh two tons (4,000 lbs).
\n\nThis amount of weight can wreak havoc on a concrete driveway, yard, patio, or asphalt.
\n\nMany dumpster rental companies will place plywood or 2x4s beneath the dumpster when dropping it off to protect against damage.
\n\nNearly every rental company enforces weight restrictions on the load.
\n\nThese restrictions are determined based on local regulations and landfill dumping fees.
\n\nIf your load exceeds the weight restriction set by the rental company, you may incur additional charges.
\n\nBe sure to thoroughly understand the rental company’s weight restrictions.
\n\nBy discussing in detail the type of debris you plan to get rid of, the rental company can estimate the total weight of the load before you fill the container.
\n\nTo be safe, always over-estimate to ensure you don’t go over.
\n\nLike renting a dumpster, a junk disposal companies can help with spring/fall home cleanings, estate cleanouts, yard waste, construction/demolition debris, or general rubbish removal.
\n\nThe difference is that the junk removal company takes care of all the heavy lifting for you.
\n\n
Hiring a junk removal company is just as easy as renting a dumpster.
\n\nYou simply call, schedule, pay, and enjoy your clutter-free space.
\n\nThe cost is determined by the type and volume of junk or debris to be hauled away (more details below).
\n\nThe junk removal company will give you a free on-site estimate for projects bigger than picking up a few pieces of furniture, for example.
\n\nJunk removal companies are pros at removing bulky, heavy items (furniture, appliances, etc.) and large quantities of debris (demolition debris, yard waste, etc.).
\n\nThey work quickly but are also focused on making sure no damage is inflicted to your property in the process.
\n\nThe majority of junk removal companies recycle a portion of each load.
\n\nThey may also donate gently used items to local charitable organizations and give you a tax-deductible receipt for it.
\n\nThe cost of renting a dumpster or for hiring a junk removal service varies based on several factors, including your location, volume of junk/debris, duration of service, and other factors.
\n\nIn general, junk removal services cost more than renting a dumpster because of the added labor costs involved.
\n\nThe one exception to this rule is for smaller cleanups, such as moving some furniture out or getting rid of a refrigerator.
\n\nHere’s a hypothetical example of how this works:
\n\n\n\n\nYou have an old couch and a few boxes of junk in the garage you want thrown out. Your local dumpster rental company offers a 10-yard dumpster rental for $250, which would do the trick. However, a local junk removal service quotes you their minimum pickup charge of $125 to haul it all away for you. In this case, junk removal is the better choice.
\n
In the example above, the volume of junk wasn’t enough to make renting a dumpster the more affordable option.
\n\nHowever, a dumpster rental would be the more cost-effective option for larger debris removal projects, such as a whole-home cleanout or roofing project.
\n\nBelow you’ll find costs associated with renting a dumpster and hiring a junk removal company.
\n\nThese are national averages based on a sample set compiled by Hometown.
\n\nThe figures below are meant to give you a general idea of what it costs for these services.
\n\nCosts can vary depending upon where you live, additional disposal fees, permits, and the scope of the debris removal project.
\n\nOur dumpster rental guide is a great resource for first-time renters. It explains important information to consider when searching for the best price in your area. To see how much it would cost on average to rent a 10 or 20 yard dumpster in a city near you, take a look at our chart of dumpster prices in all 50 states.
\nCosts are generally higher in cities with a steep cost of living, such as New York City or Los Angeles, and lower in areas with a low cost of living.
\n\nThe distance the dumpster or junk removal company has to travel to/from your property, as well as to the landfill or recycling center, may also influence pricing.
\n
Related reading:
\n\nRenting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal service are two of the top ways to declutter or clear out bulk amounts of waste. We compare the cost of each disposal solution, so you can be a more informed customer.
\r\n","changed":"2021-06-05T01:51:44+00:00"},{"id":"ac3cc0c2-91fa-5873-81c3-4e4fcf158ed4","title":"Do's and Don'ts of Renting a Dumpster","url":"/blog/dos-and-donts-of-renting-a-dumpster","image":{"path":"/static/1f6ccc56cd7d0a6555d62d801e637d63/dos-and-donts-of-dumpster-rental.jpg","alt":"do's and don'ts of dumpster rental"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Although renting a dumpster is relatively simple, there are several important things to consider before and after renting a roll-off dumpster.
\n\nThis guide will help ensure you’re getting the right dumpster for your needs as well as the best possible deal.
\n\n\n...Call ahead to reserve your dumpster rental.
\n\nWe recommend calling at least a week in advance whenever possible.
\n\n...Wait until the day of the cleanout or renovation to call the dumpster rental company.
\n\nRental companies have limited resources, and they may not have a dumpster available for you on that particular day.
\n\n...Prepare ahead of time.
\n\nDetermine the type of material you plan to throw out as well as the approximate amount.
\n\nThis will help the rental company determine the right size container for your needs.
\n\n...Call the rental company without a general idea of the material you plan to put in the dumpster.
\n\nYou may end up getting a dumpster that’s too small or too large, which costs you extra money in the end.
\n\n...Follow the rental company’s rules and regulations regarding the types of materials that can be dumped.
\n\nThis will eliminate the risk of obtaining fees for throwing out something you shouldn't.
\n\n...Throw prohibited items into the dumpster.
\n\nThese items are not only bad for the environment when disposed of improperly, but the rental company may also charge you extra if you don’t follow their rules on prohibited items.
\n\nThe most common dumpster prohibited items include paint, tires, and flammable chemicals.
\n\n...Load the dumpster to the proper height.
\n\nKeeping the dumpster below the max fill line allows for a safe and secure load when hauled away.
\n\n...Overload the dumpster.
\n\nA dumpster that’s overflowing with material makes it difficult for the rental company to cover and secure the load when picking up.
\n\nA dumpster filled with too much material may also exceed the weight limit, which will lead to additional charges from the rental company.
\n\n...Call several dumpster companies before deciding on one.
\n\nJust like any other purchase, dumpster rental prices vary by location and provider.
\n\nPrice shopping several companies is the best way to get a good deal.
\n\n...Go with the first rental company you call unless you’ve used them before or have heard good things about the company from friends and family.
\n\nHow do you know you're getting a fair price unless you compare it with other local rental companies?
\n\n...Consider the “little guy” when renting a dumpster.
\n\nSmall, local rental companies are often cheaper than the big dogs and provide more personalized service, too.
\n\n...Assume the big name trash haulers are the best option.
\n\nSupporting local small businesses is one of the best ways to help improve the community.
\n\nLearn more:
\n\nAlthough it’s a relatively simple process to rent a dumpster, there are several important things to consider before and after renting a roll-off container. This guide will help ensure you’re getting the right dumpster for your needs and the best possible deal
\r\n","changed":"2021-06-05T01:51:44+00:00"},{"id":"0544be9c-f0a2-5a0f-b1c0-3e424b0aee8f","title":"Tiny Homes Built from 99% Salvaged Materials","url":"/blog/tiny-homes-built-from-99-percent-salvaged-materials","image":{"path":"/static/39eb29eef1af054bf7214959d88e0f79/recycled-tiny-homes.jpg","alt":"recycled tiny homes"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"8a088d18-16c4-5f32-8898-b75d5543d9fa","name":"Environment","slug":"Environment"},{"id":"39c3533a-c46f-509b-8fcc-19e935627151","name":"Recycling","slug":"Recycling"},{"id":"77b0f4a6-bfa2-5046-a953-a0cc6165c18e","name":"Upcycling","slug":"Upcycling"}],"content":"Building a home typically requires a lot of materials—wood, roofing, windows, doors, hinges, cabinets, flooring, electrical, plumbing, fixtures, and more.
\n\nSome estimates state that a 1,500 sq ft home requires about 24 medium-sized trees, or 100 smaller diameter trees, to build it.
\n\n\nThat’s quite a bit of material, and that’s just the wood.
\n\n
There are roughly 489,000 single-family homes built in a single month in the U.S., according to the U.S. Census.
\n\nObviously, it takes quite a bit of lumber and other building materials to construct these homes, making their impact on the environment quite significant.
\n\nA Texas-based building company called Tiny Texas Houses constructs tiny homes made from up to 99% salvaged building materials to reduce this impact.
\n\nOne of the most unique aspects of these homes is their size.
\n\n
As the name of the company implies, these homes are quite small, measuring in at as small as 200 sq ft, but also very livable.
\n\nThe size makes them very mobile; the company actually delivers your home straight to your land plot fully constructed.
\n\nEach one of these custom-built homes is one-of-a-kind so nobody else will own the exact model you have.
\n\nAnd the demand for these unique homes is high. In fact, the company was maxed out with orders in 2012. It takes about 3 to 6 months to complete each custom home.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere are likely enough building materials sitting on the ground to build much of the next generation of housing.
\n
These tiny homes abide by all current electrical and plumbing codes, and they feature all of the modern conveniences most homes have, just on a smaller scale.
\n\nBuyers are using these homes to downsize their main home, or as outbuildings that serve as guest houses, studios, home gyms, and more.
\n\nSalvaged lumber costs more than buying new lumber, but that's due to the character and natural beauty of aged wood.
\n\nThe price of each home varies because each home is unique, but they start at around $32,000.
\n\nBuilding with salvaged materials not only produces unsurpassed results, but it’s also the most eco-friendly way to build.
\n\nIt reduces the number of trees cut down for lumber, and it cuts down on the amount of reusable waste entering landfills.
\n\nLearn more:
\n\nA Texas-based building company may have a solution to the problem of scarce building materials: Tiny homes made from up to 99% salvaged building materials right down to the nails.
\r\n","changed":"2021-06-05T01:51:44+00:00"}],"code":"comercial-trash-service","icons":[],"env":{"domain":"https://hometownstaticsites.z19.web.core.windows.net","site":"dumpster","service":" https://api-bookable-dev.azurewebsites.net","build":"nearmePages"},"project_types":[{"name":"2 Yard Dumpster","drupal_internal__id":503,"title":"2 Yard Dumpster Rental Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"When is a 2 yard dumpster the right choice?
\r\n\r\nCompact two-yard dumpsters work well for gas stations, small retail shops, small schools, and other lightly-trafficked businesses.
\r\n\r\nThe best way to know if a two yard front-load dumpster is a good fit for your business needs is to call and discuss your situation with local commercial waste haulers.
\r\n\r\nCheck with multiple haulers to ensure you’re getting the best service and price.
\r\n\r\nTwo yard dumpsters are typically the smallest and least expensive option offered by waste hauling companies, but there are several factors that affect the cost of commercial trash collection.
\r\n\r\nExpect to pay $90-$125 per month for two yard dumpster services. (Pricing generally includes weekly emptying of the container.)
\r\n\r\nTo ensure you get the best services and the best price possible, we recommend reaching out to at least three different local commercial dumpster rental service providers.
\r\n\r\nLocal dumpster companies offer great customer service, flexibility, and competitive prices. Hometown makes it easy to request quotes from dumpster rental companies near you to be sure you get the best temporary dumpster price and great services.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"4 Yard Dumpster","drupal_internal__id":504,"title":"4 Yard Dumpster Rental Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"When is a 4 yard dumpster the right choice?
\r\n\r\nFour yard dumpsters are commonly used at brick-and-mortar businesses, gas stations, midsize restaurants, and other businesses that produce a small to medium amount of waste.
\r\n\r\nThere are several key factors influencing the cost of commercial trash collection. 4 yard dumpsters offer a great balance between affordability and loading capacity.
\r\n\r\nYou can expect to pay around $110-$135 per month for 4 yard dumpster service. (These costs typically include weekly emptying of the container.)
\r\n\r\nLocal dumpster companies offer great customer service, flexibility, and competitive prices for 4 yard dumpsters. Hometown makes it easy to request quotes from dumpster companies near you to be sure you get the best 4 yard dumpster price and great services.
\r\n\r\nTo ensure you get the best services and price, we recommend reaching out to multiple local commercial dumpster rental service providers.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"6 Yard Dumpster","drupal_internal__id":505,"title":"6 Yard Dumpster Rental Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"When is a 6 yard dumpster the right choice?
\r\n\r\nSix yard dumpsters are commonly used at brick-and-mortar businesses, gas stations, midsize restaurants, and other businesses that produce a small to medium amount of waste.
\r\n\r\nYou can expect to pay around $130-$165 per month for 6 yard dumpster service. However, there are several key factors influencing the cost of commercial trash collection, like:
\r\n\r\nLocal dumpster companies offer great customer service, flexibility, and competitive prices for 6 yard dumpsters. Hometown makes it simple to request quotes from dumpster companies near you to be sure you get the best 6 yard dumpster price and great services.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"8 Yard Dumpster","drupal_internal__id":506,"title":"8 Yard Dumpster Rental Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"When is an 8 yard dumpster the right choice?
\r\n\r\nEight yard dumpsters cost $220-$300 on average per month for 8 yard dumpster service, and these costs typically include weekly emptying of the container.
\r\n\r\nLocal dumpster service providers offer great customer service, flexibility, and competitive prices for 8 yard dumpsters. Hometown makes it easy to request quotes from dumpster companies near you to be sure you get the best 8 yard dumpster price and great services.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"Cardboard Recycling","drupal_internal__id":507,"title":"Cardboard Recycling Dumpsters Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"How do I recycle large amounts of cardboard?
\r\n\r\nIf your business produces large amounts of cardboard, cardboard recycling dumpsters may be an option in your area.
\r\n\r\nCardboard recycling dumpsters range in price from $200-$400 on average, but these prices will vary based on size, frequency of pick-up, where you live, and the company you use.
\r\n\r\nThe amount of cardboard you’ll be able to put in your recycling container will depend on the size container you use and how well you break down the cardboard.
\r\n\r\nIf you break the cardboard down thoroughly, you should be able to fill the dumpster and maximize the loading capacity of your dumpster.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"Commercial Dumpsters","drupal_internal__id":508,"title":"Commercial Dumpsters Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"Which size commercial dumpster does my business need?
\r\n\r\nThe type of business, type of wastes (e.g., cardboard vs. food waste), and the size of your business all play a role in determining the right commercial dumpster size for your needs.
\r\n\r\nIt’s helpful to determine the disposal needs of your building(s) before shopping for a waste hauler. Though, if you’re unsure, a reputable waste company can help you.
\r\n\r\nCommercial dumpster service varies in price and is based on size of container, location, frequency of pick-up, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nBusiness customers in an average U.S. city can expect to pay $100-$200 per month for commercial front-load dumpster service. This pricing includes weekly pick-up.
\r\n\r\nA common pick-up schedule is weekly or bi-weekly, though most dumpster companies are willing to work with businesses to find the exact pick-up schedule that works for them and their needs.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"Commercial Trash Collection","drupal_internal__id":509,"title":"Commercial Trash Collection Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"Which size commercial dumpster do I need for my business’s trash?
\r\n\r\nThe type of business, type of wastes (e.g., cardboard vs. food waste), and the size of your company all play a role in determining the right commercial dumpster size for your needs.
\r\n\r\nIt’s helpful to determine the disposal needs of your building(s) before shopping for a waste hauler. Though, if you’re unsure, a reputable waste company can help you.
\r\n\r\nIn the U.S., companies can expect to pay $100-$200 per month for commercial front-load dumpster service. This pricing includes weekly pick-up.
\r\n\r\nHowever, commercial trash collection varies in price and is based on size of container, location, frequency of pick-up, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nWeekly or bi-weekly pick-ups are a common schedule for commercial trash collection. However, most service providers are willing to work with companies to find the exact pick-up schedule that works for them and their needs.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"Commercial Trash Compactors","drupal_internal__id":510,"title":"Commercial Trash Compactors Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"Which size commercial trash compactor do I need for my business?
\r\n\r\nSelf-contained compactors can range anywhere from 2-40 yards.
\r\n\r\nMost often used by restaurants, supermarkets, department stores, and malls that share a dumpster, the exact amount of waste your business produces will determine which size compactor to choose.
\r\n\r\nThe companies you reach out to will be able to help you determine the best size for your needs.
\r\n\r\nThe knowledgeable professionals you reach out to for quotes on your compactor service can conduct an onsite evaluation to recommend the compactor that best suits your company’s needs.
\r\n\r\nThe major benefit of a compactor is that it reduces the need to make more frequent hauls, which can save you a lot of money in the long run. a possible reduction in hauls.
\r\n\r\nCompactors are environmentally responsible, increase the usable space of your parking lot by minimizing the number of containers you need, improves the safety and security of the area by keeping it properly maintained, and keeps odors to a minimum.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"Paper Recycling","drupal_internal__id":511,"title":"Paper Recycling Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"How do I recycle large amounts of paper?
\r\n\r\nIf your business produces large amounts of paper, paper recycling dumpsters may be an option in your area.
\r\n\r\nPaper recycling dumpsters range in price from $200-$400 on average, but these prices will vary based on size, frequency of pick-up, where you live, and the company you use.
\r\n\r\nThe amount of paper you’ll be able to put in your recycling container will depend on the size container you use as well as the included weight limit.
\r\n\r\nThe companies you reach out to will be able to help you choose the best dumpster size for your paper recycling needs.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"Plastic Recycling","drupal_internal__id":512,"title":"Plastic Recycling Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"How do I recycle large amounts of plastic?
\r\n\r\nIf your business produces large amounts of plastic, plastic recycling dumpsters may be an option in your area.
\r\n\r\nPlastic recycling dumpsters range in price from $200-$400 on average, but these prices will vary based on size, frequency of pick-up, where you live, and the company you use.
\r\n\r\nThe amount of plastic you’ll be able to put in your recycling container will depend on the size container you use, the types of plastic you’re disposing of, and how much space it takes up in the container.
\r\n\r\nThe companies you reach out to will be able to help you choose the best dumpster size for your plastic recycling needs.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},{"name":"Scrap Metal Recycling","drupal_internal__id":513,"title":"Scrap Metal Recycling Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"How do I recycle large amounts of scrap metal?
\r\n\r\nSome of the best ways to recycle scrap metal include hiring a junk removal company to remove the scrap metal for you and haul it to a nearby scrap metal yard, or renting a dumpster to load your scrap metal and then be hauled away to be recycled on your behalf.
\r\n\r\nRecycling your metal scrap at scrap yards can actually make you money, but the cost of the services that will haul your scrap metal to the nearest scrap yard isn’t free.
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company to haul scrap metal can be anywhere from
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster to haul scrap metal costs $250-$450 on average, depending on where you live, the dumpster size you rent, and more.
\r\n\r\nThe average cost for junk removal services, including scrap metal removal services, throughout the U.S. ranges from $100-$1,000.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}}],"project_type":{"name":"Commercial Trash Collection","drupal_internal__id":509,"title":"Commercial Trash Collection Near You","subtitle":null,"faq":{"value":"Which size commercial dumpster do I need for my business’s trash?
\r\n\r\nThe type of business, type of wastes (e.g., cardboard vs. food waste), and the size of your company all play a role in determining the right commercial dumpster size for your needs.
\r\n\r\nIt’s helpful to determine the disposal needs of your building(s) before shopping for a waste hauler. Though, if you’re unsure, a reputable waste company can help you.
\r\n\r\nIn the U.S., companies can expect to pay $100-$200 per month for commercial front-load dumpster service. This pricing includes weekly pick-up.
\r\n\r\nHowever, commercial trash collection varies in price and is based on size of container, location, frequency of pick-up, and who you hire.
\r\n\r\nWeekly or bi-weekly pick-ups are a common schedule for commercial trash collection. However, most service providers are willing to work with companies to find the exact pick-up schedule that works for them and their needs.
\r\n"},"relationships":{"field_service_type":{"field_code":"comercial-trash-service"}}},"enabledBooking":[]}}, "staticQueryHashes": []}