You might not think about waste management right away when you’re getting ready for a home renovation, garage cleanout, or landscaping overhaul, but you should. One of the most important choices you’ll have to make during any cleanup or construction project is what size dumpster to rent. Why? Because it can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s look at the differences between a 10 yard dumpster rental and a 20-yard dumpster so you can make the right choice the first time.
Did You Know?
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 600 million tons of construction and demolition debris were generated in the United States in 2018—more than twice the amount of municipal solid waste that year.
Key Takeaways
- 10 yard dumpsters are ideal for small projects like single-room cleanouts or light renovations.
- 20 yard dumpsters offer more flexibility for larger projects and reduce the risk of overflow.
- Choosing the wrong size can lead to added costs, delays, or second rentals.
- Local providers like Smart Dumpsters offer faster service, better pricing, and no hidden fees.
- Always assess your space, waste type, and project scale before making a choice.
This makes selecting the proper dumpster size more important than ever—not just for your project, but also for your community and environment.
What is the 10 yard dumpster rental cost?
A 10-yard dumpster can carry around 10 cubic yards of stuff, which is about the same as three full pickup truck loads. It’s the smallest standard size you can get, and it’s made to be easy to use.
Great for:
- Cleaning out the garage
- Getting rid of trash in the yard
- Renovations of small bathrooms or kitchens
- Cleaning out the attic or basement
- Taking out a few tiles or pieces of flooring
This is the best size for homeowners who want to get things done quickly on the weekends or who don’t want to squander too much, yet can’t afford to make mistakes.
Why should you get a 10-yard dumpster?
- Fits readily in tiny driveways because it is small.
- Less expensive—usually the cheapest dumpster choice
- Fast delivery and pickup equals less time on site and a faster project turnaround.
If you’ve been Googling “cheap 10 yard dumpster rental” or “10 yard dumpster rentals near me,” this size is likely what you’re thinking of.
Dumpster Size Comparison Table
| Feature | 10 Yard Dumpster | 20 Yard Dumpster |
| Capacity | ~10 cubic yards | ~20 cubic yards |
| Pickup Load Equivalent | 3 truckloads | 6 truckloads |
| Ideal For | Small cleanouts, minor renos | Multi-room projects, roofing |
| Fits in Driveway | Yes | Usually yes |
| Estimated Cost | $250–$450 | $350–$550 |
| Risk of Overflow | Higher | Lower |
What Impacts the Cost of a 10 Yard Dumpster Rental?
You might be asking, how much is a 10 yard dumpster rental? Depending on where you live and what kind of stuff you’re throwing out, prices usually range from $250 to $450.
Things that impact prices:
- Location: Disposal costs may be higher in cities.
- How long do you need to rent it? More than 7 days? That might cost more.
- Weight of materials: If you go above the weight limit, you’ll have to pay more.
- Permit needs Needed if you want to put it on the street in some cities
Looking for the Best dumpster rental Charleston has to offer? Smart Dumpsters provides clear, flat-rate pricing with no surprises. Whether you’re a first-time renter or an experienced contractor, we help you budget smart from the start.
How to Choose the Best Dumpster Size for Your Home Project
Ask yourself these questions if you’re not sure what you’ll really need:
To begin, ask yourself:
- What kind of project am I working on?
(Demo, cleaning, landscaping, remodelling?)
- What type of trash will I make?
(Light things like cardboard or hefty things like concrete?)
- Is there space on my property for a bigger bin?
- When is my project due?
- One day? A week? Work still going on?
If you say things like “just a small room” or “only household junk,” a 10 yard dumpster rental could be right for you. If you’re working for several days and have a lot of trash, you should go with the 20-yard.
Hidden Costs of Choosing the Wrong Size
You might not think that choosing the wrong dumpster size will cost you more than you think:
- Fees for going over the container wall will cost you more.
- Extra tonnage charges: The more rubbish you have, the more you pay.
- Second rentals: Ordering a second dumpster costs twice as much.
- Delays in the project—bins that are too full may need particular care
Searching for Local Options? Why Local Beats National Chains
Looking for the best dumpster size for a home project near you? Working with a local company has several benefits:
- Faster delivery and pickup—same day or next day availability
- Clear communication: real people, genuine responses
- No extra fees—no upselling or dodgy terms
- Local knowledge: We know the regulations in your city and how to stay out of trouble.
A lot of big national businesses hire other companies to distribute their goods and employ pricing strategies that are hard to understand. We are not the same. When you call, you talk to individuals who know a lot about dumpsters and care about your project.
Should You Size Up to a 20 Yard Dumpster?
If your job will take place in more than one room or you don’t know how much trash you’ll make, the 20-yard dumpster is a good choice.
This container is almost twice the size of a 10-yard unit and can accommodate around six pickup truck loads. For medium-sized homes and light commercial work, it’s the most preferred choice.
Great for:
- Cleaning out the whole house
- Remodels of kitchens or bathrooms that are medium-sized
- Roofing jobs that are up to 3,000 square feet
- Taking off decks or putting up new siding
Ready to Dump the Guesswork?
Don’t allow the size of the dumpster to stop you from moving forward. Picking the appropriate container now will save you time, money, and trouble later, whether you’re performing a minor cleanup or a big remodel.
If you’re not sure, pick a service you trust that can help you. Smart Dumpsters has helped thousands of homeowners and contractors in the area select the right dumpster.
We’re here to make your cleanup easy, affordable, and worry-free. Contact us today to get started!
FAQs
What is the price of renting a dumpster that is 10 yards long?
It usually costs between $250 and $450, depending on where you are, what kind of trash you have, and how long you need it.
Can I fit a 10-yard dumpster in my driveway?
Yes, it’s small and made for driveways and other small spots in homes.
What if I rent the wrong size?
You could have to pay more for overflow or rent a second dumpster. If you’re not sure, get a bigger size.
How quickly can I acquire a dumpster?
Smart Dumpsters can deliver to most local locations the same day or the next day.
Do I need a license?
Only if you put the dumpster on a public street. We can assist you get through the procedure.