A dumpster rental is an efficient waste removal option for construction and remodeling, if you’re emptying your basement or attic, or if you’re planning to undergo a major yard project. However, since most homeowners only use this service rarely, you may not be familiar with the best ways to load the dumpster. The guide below offers best practices for using yours efficiently and safely.

Do:

Open it up.

Many dumpster rentals have collapsible sides for easier access. Fold one side down to start so you can walk items into the roll-off, rather than lift and throw them over the rim. Then, when the level of trash in the dumpster rises, fold the side back up and secure it in place so the bin will hold more.

Deal with heavy items first.

The largest and heaviest items should be placed into the dumpster at the beginning so that smaller items can be added around them. This makes the load more stable and less likely to shift.

Don't:

Load without looking.

A lot of people may be helping to load the dumpster all at once. Therefore, be careful to examine your surroundings before tossing a heavy item in. Not only might there be someone inside the unit, but there could also be someone on the other side of it—invisible because the dumpster is so tall. In these cases, a badly-aimed hit could seriously hurt them. 

Jump to pack it down.

When it comes to your kitchen trashcan, you might have the tendency to press the contents down to make room for more. However, the same principle should not be applied to your dumpster rental. In most cases, waste removal companies will weigh your dumpster when it returns to determine whether it's overloaded. The more you pack in, the more likely you are to be charged extra for the overage. Also, jumping on the trash can cause you to land on something sharp or have the material shift under you, and the potential injuries can be serious.

For an affordable and convenient roll-off container in Lincoln, NE, and throughout Lancaster County, choose Industrial Services. They have over a century of experience with both weekly curbside service and on-demand dumpster rental. Learn more about their available sizes online. To schedule delivery or pickup, call (402) 467-3581.