Tips for Picking the Right Dumpster Placement

Whether you’re moving and need to get rid of some old things, recently completed a home project and have supply remnants hanging around, or are simply doing a junk cleanout, renting a dumpster can help simplify this process and ensure everything is disposed of properly. 

That being said, there are some logistics to consider, such as the cost to rent a dumpster, what size you need, and where to place it. In this article, we’ll provide some tips to ensure getting rid of your garbage and junk is easy.

What Are the Best Dumpster Placement Options?

There are three placement options for dumpsters: the street, your front lawn, or your driveway. Before you contact a dumpster rental near you, consider the following tips to help you choose the right placement option for your project.

Tips for Picking the Right Dumpster Placement

Placing a dumpster in the best spot for your project and situation helps the process go smoothly. Here’s what you need to know before you get your dumpster delivered.

Make It Easily Accessible

Put the dumpster near where you’re doing the removal—this limits walking distance and the energy you spend doing the removal. For instance, if you’re hauling things from your backyard, you may want to have the dumpster rental company place the dumpster back there. However, the grass underneath the dumpster will die if covered too long, so this is only ideal for quick projects.

Consider What Size You Need

Knowing what size dumpster you need can help you determine where to place it. Smaller dumpsters are easier to maneuver, so you can put them in most places on your property. Larger dumpsters are much more unwieldy, and the removal company may require you to keep them in your driveway or on the street.

Consider What You’re Disposing Of

It’s key to know what you can put in a dumpster rental as well as what items can’t go in a dumpster rental. Once you know this, you should have a clear idea of what exactly you’ll be putting into the dumpster. If the items are heavy and cumbersome, you’ll want to put it in a place that limits your trek with the items.

Keep It a Safe Distance from Structures

Dumpsters should be placed at least six feet away from structures such as windows, doors, and electrical poles. Keeping dumpsters a safe distance from other buildings and structures adds an extra layer of protection should anything go wrong. 

Look Into Permits

Most of the time, you need a permit for a dumpster, and where you put your dumpster can affect what kind of permit you need. The type of permit you’re able to get may determine whether you want to opt for an alternative placement to your original plan.

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Dumpster?

Homeowners can expect the cost to rent a dumpster to range from $295 to $480 per week; however, your total expense depends on several key factors, including your location, the size of the dumpster, and the duration of your rental. Most rental fees cover the basics: drop-off, pickup, dumping charges, and any necessary permits per local guidelines.

Smaller dumpsters, which are best for minor cleanups, generally cost between $250 and $300, while large roll-off containers, typically used for renovations or major decluttering, can run $800 or more per week. Ensure you check weight limits and fill lines before loading up; going over can lead to extra charges that quickly inflate your bill.

Dumpster Rental vs. Junk Removal

When deciding between a dumpster rental and junk removal, the best choice usually centers around the job site and how hands-on you want to be. Renting a dumpster is ideal for DIY projects, ongoing renovations, or slow-moving cleanouts where you can fill the container at your own pace. 

When the work is complete, the dumpster rental company takes care of the rest. However, if space is tight or local ordinances prohibit dumpsters in your driveway, yard, or street, junk removal services may be the better fit.

Junk haulers handle the heavy lifting for you. They are especially convenient for quick cleanouts or when you only have a few bulky items, such as a couple of large appliances or a massive modular sofa to get rid of.  The cost of junk hauling varies based on how much you are tossing. In some instances, you may pay as little as $60 for a single item, closer to $600 for a substantial load of furniture or appliances, and up to $700 or more for a whole truckload of mixed debris. Rates can fluctuate depending on your location, the type of materials, and local disposal fees.