What is a Roll Off Dumpster

What is a Roll Off Dumpster?

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A roll off dumpster, sometimes called a roll off container, is a large open-top dumpster designed for removing heavy debris and large volumes of waste. Unlike regular front-loading dumpsters that you commonly see behind buildings and houses, a roll off dumpster is much larger and sits on the ground rather than being picked up by a truck.

Roll off dumpsters are designed to be easily transported by special trucks with hydraulic lifts. The name comes from the fact that these dumpsters literally “roll off” the back of the truck into place and can be quickly removed when full. Companies deliver an empty roll off container to your location, you load it up with waste and debris, then the company comes and hauls it away. This makes roll off dumpsters ideal for big projects that generate lots of refuse.

Roll offs come in a range of sizes from 10 to 40+ yards to handle everything from home renovation projects to large-scale construction site cleanup. Their unique open top design with no lids or doors makes it easy to load the dumpster from any angle without having to lift debris high up. Wheels under the frame allow the dumpster to be conveniently moved around a property as needed while loading.

In summary, a roll off dumpster provides a flexible, high-capacity solution for removing significant volumes of debris and waste conveniently. They are designed to be transported by special trucks and efficiently loaded/unloaded thanks to their ground-level configuration and open top access.

Difference from Regular Dumpsters

Roll off dumpsters are quite different from the standard dumpsters you see behind businesses and homes. Here are the key differences:

  • Open top design – Roll off dumpsters have an open top, unlike regular dumpsters with lids. This allows for easy loading without having to open/close a lid. You can load debris with skid steers, forklifts, or by hand.
  • Much larger size capacities – Roll off containers come in sizes from 10 to 40+ yards, far bigger than normal dumpsters. Their extra large capacity handles major cleanup and construction debris.
  • Hydraulic lift system – A cable winch system with hydraulic lifts lets roll off trucks easily transport the dumpster. The bed tilts and rolls the dumpster on and off the truck. Regular dumpsters are picked up by forklifts or truck-mounted arms instead.
  • Special roll off trucks – These are flatbed trucks with hydraulic systems to deliver, unload, and pick up roll off dumpsters. Regular dump trucks or garbage trucks cannot transport roll offs. The roll off trucks are essential for their mobility.

The combination of an open top design, huge capacity, hydraulic lifting, and specialized trucks make roll off dumpsters very different from normal dumpsters. Their unique features allow handling large volumes of waste.

Common Uses for Roll Off Dumpsters

Roll off dumpsters are ideal for large debris removal and waste projects where a regular dumpster just won’t cut it. Here are some of the most common uses:

Construction and Renovation Projects

Roll offs are perfect for major home renovations, room additions, kitchen or bathroom remodels, and other large-scale construction debris. They easily accommodate materials like drywall, wood, flooring, concrete, roofing, and more. Their large capacity means fewer dumpster rentals and dump trips required.

Roof Replacements

Replacing a roof generates a huge amount of heavy shingle debris. Rather than making multiple trips to the landfill, a roll off container allows easy removal of old roofing material. Dump the debris straight from the roof into the roll off using chutes.

Large-Scale Cleanups

For major cleanouts like garage, basement or attic cleanouts, estate cleanouts after a death, or hoarding situations, a roll off is ideal. It provides ample room for debris without constant unloading. The open top design makes tossing junk in fast and efficient.

Disaster Debris Removal

Following fires, floods or storms, roll offs are invaluable for removing damaged items, hazardous debris, fallen trees, mud and more. Their huge capacity accelerates recovery. Many roll off companies prioritize rentals for disaster relief.

Roll offs handle the waste large projects generate. Their spacious interior is perfect for construction debris, roof tear-offs, big cleanouts or disaster recovery.

What You Can Put In a Roll Off Dumpster

Roll off dumpsters can hold a variety of waste, debris, and large items. Here’s an overview of what can typically go into a roll off:

Construction Debris

Roll offs are ideal for disposing of debris from construction and renovation projects. You can place wood, drywall, shingles, flooring, bricks, siding, and other standard construction materials into the dumpster. Just check with the rental company for any debris they don’t allow.

Furniture

Old furniture like couches, chairs, mattresses, tables, and dressers can go into a roll off dumpster. It’s a convenient way to clear out furniture instead of making multiple trips to the landfill. Just make sure hazardous fluids have been removed first.

Appliances

Major appliances like refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, and water heaters can be placed in a roll off dumpster. Again, make sure to remove any fluids first. Many rental companies will also require you to remove doors on refrigerators and freezers.

Vegetation

Yard waste like tree branches, bushes, leaves, grass clippings can all be dumped into a roll off. It provides a simple solution for major landscaping debris. Some companies may restrict entire trees, stumps or dirt.

Restricted Materials

While roll offs can take a lot, most companies prohibit materials like batteries, tires, liquids, hazardous chemicals and flammable materials. Be sure to check the full list of prohibited items to avoid extra fees. The dumpster is also not meant for regular household trash and garbage.

Available Sizes

Roll off dumpsters come in a range of sizes to accommodate different volumes of waste. Common sizes include:

  • 10 yard – The 10 yard dumpster provides around 10 cubic yards of space, or approximately 160-200 square feet. It can typically handle waste from a small bathroom remodel, attic cleanout, garage cleanup, or small construction project. This size is good for 1-2 weeks of waste generation.
  • 15 yard – With 15 cubic yards of capacity, the 15 yard size works well for medium home renovation projects, like kitchen remodels or finishing basements. It can hold debris equivalent to a 2-3 car garage cleanup. Plan for 2-4 weeks of waste.
  • 20 yard – Great for major home remodels or basement finishes, the 20 yard container provides around 20 cubic yards of space. It can handle 4-7 weeks of debris from projects like whole house renovations, roof replacements, or demolition waste.
  • 30 yard – With 30 cubic yards of volume, a 30 yard roll off can take waste from big remodeling jobs, construction debris, or disaster cleanup. This size dumpster can hold 6-10 weeks worth of waste. It has around 480 square feet of space.
  • 40 yard – The largest standard size, the 40 yard roll off dumpster provides huge capacity for massive projects. It offers 40 cubic yards or 640 square feet to contain 8-12+ weeks of debris. 40 yard dumpsters work for new home construction, commercial renovations, multi-family cleanouts, and large disaster debris removal jobs.

The right size dumpster depends on the scope of your specific project and how much waste you expect to generate. It’s best to overestimate your needs slightly. Roll off companies can guide you in choosing the perfect dumpster size for any job.

Key Benefits of Roll Off Dumpsters

Roll off dumpsters offer several advantages over regular dumpsters and other waste removal methods:

  • Holds Far More Debris – Roll offs can hold 10 to 40+ cubic yards of debris. This is 10-20 times more than a standard 6-8 yard bin! With a roll off you can remove debris from large projects in just 1 or 2 bins rather than needing multiple smaller dumpsters.
  • Easy Loading – Roll off dumpsters have an open top design without a lid, allowing for simple loading using skid steers, forklifts or manual labor. The open top gives you full access to the huge container volume.
  • Minimal Lifting – Unlike front-load dumpsters, roll offs are designed to sit on the ground for loading. This minimizes heavy lifting since you don’t have to hoist debris high into the air. Things can be slid, thrown or tipped right in.
  • Flexible Rental Periods – You can rent a roll off short-term for a day, or long-term for weeks or months. Roll offs stay on site until they are full, so you aren’t on the clock to fill them like a normal dumpster.
  • Load at Your Own Pace – With a roll off you can load debris at your convenience rather than rushing to meet a dumpster pickup schedule. Just keep loading until the container is full, then schedule a pickup.

With these advantages, roll offs are an efficient, low-hassle method for removing large volumes of waste from remodeling, construction, land clearing and similar big debris-producing jobs.

Choosing a Roll Off Dumpster Rental Company

When it comes time to rent a roll off dumpster, you’ll want to choose a reputable provider that offers transparent pricing, flexible delivery and pickup, responsiveness, and detailed invoices. Here are some tips for selecting the right roll off dumpster rental company:

Look for Established Companies with Good Reviews

Go with an established roll off dumpster company that has a proven track record and positive customer reviews. Avoid fly-by-night operations or providers with a lot of complaints. Research companies in your area to find ones known for reliable service.

Check for Itemized Price Quotes

Get a detailed written quote upfront that clearly specifies costs like delivery, pickup, taxes, and tonnage fees. Make sure to ask about extra charges for items like additional rental days, overloading, or extra debris. Good companies will provide an itemized invoice so there are no hidden surprises.

Ask About Delivery and Removal Flexibility

Discuss your project timeline and see how flexible the company can be for dumpster delivery and removal. Many providers allow you to keep the dumpster for as long as you need. See if they can provide pickup on weekends or after normal working hours to accommodate your schedule.

Look for Responsiveness in Communication

From your initial inquiry to rental coordination, the company should respond promptly to your calls and questions. Clear communication upfront makes for a smooth process. Make sure you know who to contact if any issues arise during your rental.

Avoid Requirements for Long-Term Commitments

Reputable dumpster companies won’t lock you into lengthy rental agreements. The duration should be customized based on your unique project. Be wary of low prices tied to multi-month contracts.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can find a trustworthy and affordable roll off dumpster rental company that will meet your needs!

Loading Equipment Needed

Roll off dumpsters are designed for easy loading. Many homeowners and contractors can load a roll off dumpster by hand for smaller debris. Ladders and other tools can assist with reaching the top of the dumpster walls to toss items in.

For heavier items like appliances, furniture or construction materials, mechanical equipment like a skid steer or forklift may be required. The open top allows equipment to easily load heavy debris into the dumpster. Front-end loaders are commonly used to fill roll offs with extremely heavy objects or dense materials efficiently.

Some roll off dumpster rental companies can provide loading equipment or an operator to assist with loading if you don’t have access to the necessary tools. It’s a good idea to ask about loading assistance when inquiring about your rental if you anticipate needing help. With the right equipment and some manpower, loading a roll off dumpster is manageable for most homeowners or contractors.

Rental Duration

A roll off dumpster rental typically lasts 1-2 weeks. The standard rental period allows enough time for most cleanup, construction, or renovation projects.

Some roll off dumpster companies offer longer rental term options if you need an extended timeframe. For example, you may be able to rent the dumpster for a month or longer. This can be convenient if you have an ongoing project that generates debris over several weeks.

When renting a roll off dumpster, be sure to have an estimate of how long you’ll need it. Don’t underestimate the rental duration you’ll require, as you may incur additional delivery and pickup fees if you need an extension. At the same time, overestimating results in paying for unused rental days. Discuss your project timeline with the rental provider to determine the optimal rental period.

With the flexibility of roll off dumpster rentals, you can take your time loading debris over days or weeks. Just be mindful of rental costs if exceeding the timeframe of your original rental agreement.

Rental Costs

The cost of renting a 10 yard roll off dumpster averages $400-$600, depending on your location and the rental company. Several factors impact the total rental price:

  • Rental period – Most companies charge a weekly rate, with longer rentals often receiving a discounted extended rate. Expect to pay more for short 1-3 day rentals.
  • Delivery and pickup fees – There is usually a flat fee charged each way to deliver and retrieve the dumpster. This can range from $100-$250 roundtrip.
  • Overload fees – Going over the stated capacity of the dumpster by weight or volume will result in overload fees. These act as a deterrent to prevent overfilling.
  • Fuel/environmental fees – Additional surcharges for fuel or local environmental fees are common. These help offset transportation and landfill costs.
  • Taxes – Most areas levy local taxes and fees on dumpster rental services.

When renting a roll off dumpster, carefully review the full rental invoice and ask about any extra fees not quoted upfront. Reputable companies provide itemized invoices that clearly explain the charges. Common line items include:

  • Base rental fee
  • Tax
  • Environmental/fuel fees
  • Delivery charge
  • Pickup charge
  • Overload fees (if applicable)
  • Additional days (if kept longer)

Getting an itemized quote from multiple roll off rental companies allows you to accurately compare overall pricing. And knowing what to expect for fees helps avoid surprise charges down the road.

Permits

Most of the time you won’t need a permit to rent a roll off dumpster for your home or business. However, regulations do vary by municipality so it’s a good idea to check with your local city or county permit office.

Some reasons you may need a permit include:

  • If you plan to place the dumpster in the street or block any roads, even just temporarily.
  • For long term projects lasting more than a certain number of days, often 30 days.
  • If your project will generate substantially more debris than typical, like major demolition or construction debris.
  • If you live in a strict HOA community or historic district with limits on dumpster placement.

When in doubt, call your local permit office and explain your project. They’ll let you know if you need any special permitting. The roll off rental company can also usually advise if permits are needed.

The permit application is generally simple and inexpensive. You’ll need to specify the delivery and removal dates, size of dumpster, and where it will be located. This allows the city or county to make sure the dumpster won’t obstruct traffic or pedestrians.

As long as you place the roll off fully on private property and avoid public right-of-ways, permits are generally not necessary for most standard debris cleanup jobs. But always check regulations for your area to avoid any potential citations if rules exist.

Environmental Impact

When renting a roll-off dumpster, it’s important to consider the environmental impact and follow proper disposal procedures. Here are some tips:

  • Many dumpster rental companies offer recycling options for certain materials like concrete, metal, clean wood, cardboard, or yard waste. Segregating these materials and avoiding sending them to the landfill reduces the dumpster’s environmental footprint. Check with the rental company on what recycling services they provide.
  • For materials that can’t be recycled, ensure they are properly disposed of according to local regulations. Hazardous waste like chemicals, oil, batteries, and electronics require special handling and shouldn’t go in a rental dumpster.
  • Avoid overfilling the dumpster with excess debris. Getting one too small can result in materials falling out, leading to litter and pollution. An overfull dumpster may exceed weight limits, causing safety issues during transport.
  • Don’t keep the dumpster on site longer than required. Quickly filling it up and promptly returning it reduces the chances for dumped materials to leech pollution into the ground. Shorter rentals also minimize neighborhood annoyances.
  • Ask the rental company if they transport the waste to an approved waste management facility that follows environmental guidelines for proper disposal. Avoid companies that illegally dump at unauthorized sites.
  • For household hazardous waste, look into local community collection events or facilities that accept these materials from residents to ensure safe disposal. Never mix household hazardous waste into a rental dumpster.

Following simple guidelines like recycling, avoiding overfills, and promptly returning the dumpster after completion helps minimize the environmental impact and disposal footprint when using a roll-off dumpster rental. Proper use also reduces safety risks and helps maintain positive community relations.

Alternatives to Roll Off Dumpsters

While roll off dumpsters are ideal for large debris removal jobs, they may be overkill for smaller projects. Here are some alternatives to consider:

Regular Dumpsters

For small to medium sized loads, a standard dumpster rental may do the trick. Regular dumpsters like 8 or 10 yard models have a set footprint and don’t require special trucks for delivery. The downside is their capacity is much lower. You’ll need frequent dumpster emptying on big jobs.

Bagster Bags

For DIY junk removal, Bagster bags can be a budget-friendly solution. You purchase a heavy-duty bag and set it outside to fill up. Once full, you schedule pickup and disposal. Bagster bags hold about 3 cubic yards and cost around $30. While convenient, their capacity is very limited.

Junk Haulers

Many junk hauling companies offer labor and truck rental for debris removal. They bring a truck and loading crew to remove junk from your property by hand. Prices are usually hourly with minimums. Good for unfocused cleanouts but not cheapest for large volumes of waste.

Regular dumpsters, Bagster bags, and junk haulers provide lower capacity, lower cost alternatives. For removing lots of heavy debris, roll off dumpsters can’t be beat on convenience and value. Just remember to size your rental properly so you don’t overpay.

Safety Tips for Using Roll Off Dumpsters

When renting and using a roll off dumpster, following some basic safety guidelines is important. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

  • Distribute weight evenly when loading the dumpster. Don’t overload one side significantly more than the other. Loads should be balanced to avoid tipping and evenly dispersed to prevent overstressing one area of the dumpster floor.
  • Avoid overloading beyond the dumpster’s maximum weight capacity. Overfilling can be unsafe and lead to collapsing or toppling. Don’t exceed the load limit.
  • Cover or secure protruding items so they don’t stick out from the top of the dumpster where people walking by could be injured. Use tarps, plywood or other materials to cover pointed, sharp or otherwise dangerous items.
  • Keep the area around the dumpster clear so nothing blocks access to the loading side. Maintain at least 3 feet of space on all sides.
  • Close and secure side doors when not in use to prevent unauthorized dumping. Keep access limited only to those working on the project.
  • Use caution when opening/closing the rear hydraulic lift door as it can quickly drop down. Keep hands and fingers away from pinch points.
  • Wear protective equipment like gloves, boots, glasses and hard hats when working in or around the dumpster. Debris inside and weight of items can pose hazards.

Following basic safety practices when loading, transporting and unloading roll off dumpsters can help prevent injuries and make the rental process smooth. Use common sense and caution throughout the project.

Conclusion

Renting a roll off dumpster is the ideal solution for large home renovation, construction, landscaping, and clean-up projects. Unlike regular dumpsters, they have an open top design to easily load materials without lifting, and hold far more volume with sizes ranging from 10 to 40+ yards.

Key benefits of choosing a roll off dumpster include:

  • Hauls away large quantities of debris all at once
  • Can be loaded using skid steers or wheelbarrows instead of carrying trash bags
  • Flexible rental periods from a week to a month+
  • Available in different sizes to match your waste needs
  • Placed conveniently at ground level for easy loading
  • Lowered costs compared to making multiple trips to the landfill

Roll off dumpsters help simplify waste removal for big projects. If you have an upcoming remodel, new construction, or major yard cleanup planned, get a free quote on renting a roll off dumpster that meets your needs. With the right container, you can dispose of waste efficiently, legally, and affordably.

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