Dumpsters are useful for everything from outdoor projects to home renovations. Maintaining a space free of trash and clutter helps the job go more smoothly, ensuring success every step of the way. But if you’ve never rented one before, you should familiarize yourself with some basics. Here’s what you need to know before you contact a waste management provider.

A Guide to Renting a Dumpster

How does the rental process work?

After you select a provider, you’ll determine an appropriate date and time for delivery of your chosen dumpster. You agree to load the receptacle with an acceptable weight within pre-determined limits. This is a crucial factor, because the delivery truck is designed to handle a specific amount of weight. If you suspect you might go over the allowed amount, you might consider renting a larger unit instead. Once your job is complete, the company retrieves the receptacle on an agreed upon date.

What size dumpsters are available?

Dumpsters are available in a variety of sizes, from 10- to 40-cubic feet.  The smallest size is ideal for smaller-scale projects, such as minor bathroom renovations, landscaping, roofing and flooring materials, and light spring cleaning or junk removal. Units that are 20- and 30-cubic feet are ideal for more substantial construction, demolition, and renovation projects, including new buildings and window replacements. The largest size is best suited for commercial projects that generate a significant amount of construction debris, although it’s useful for household items like concrete, drywall, carpeting, and yard waste, too.

Where is it usually placed?

In some cases it depends on the neighborhood. If you are part of a homeowners association, you might need to obtain permission before it’s placed on the street outside your home if you don’t have room on the driveway. Otherwise, any flat and hard driveway surface provides optimal support for the unit. Ground that is too soft or that is sloped may not be suitable.

Is there anything you can’t throw away?

Your waste management provider may give you a list of items that aren’t permissible to throw away. In general, however, you can’t toss anything that’s considered hazardous, including toxic chemicals and other flammable materials. Items like electronic waste, tires, oil, paint, and batteries, for example, shouldn’t be thrown in the receptacle. If you are uncertain, ask before you rent the unit.

If you need to rent a dumpster before your project begins, turn to the team at T-Mac Solid Waste & Roll-Off Service in Columbia, MO. The company offers a variety of sizes, including 10-, 15-, 20-, 30-, and 40-cubic feet, to accommodate your specific needs. Visit them online to find out more about their services, including waste removal, or call them at (573) 814-2844 to speak with a representative.