Whether it’s a renovation project, new construction, home cleanout, furniture removal, or any other type of waste or debris removal project, a junk removal service or dumpster rental are the top two solutions for the job. But, when is it better to rent a dumpster or. hiring a junk removal company, OR Rent-A-Dumpster? Let’s explore the difference between the two and determine which is best for your situation.

Disposal Option #1: Rent a Dumpster
When you’d prefer to clear out the junk/debris yourself, renting a dumpster is the way to go. It’s a simple process that involves calling the dumpster rental company, choosing a container size, having it dropped off at your property, filling it up, and having it hauled away.

In some cases, such as having the dumpster dropped off on the side of a city street, you may also have to secure a permit. The dumpster rental company can help determine if this is necessary in your case.

Trailer dumpsters come in several capacities, including the most common container sizes: 10, 15, 18 and 20 yard containers. When renting a dumpster, “yards” is referring to the “cubic yard” capacity of the dumpster.

For reference, a 10 yard dumpster is ideal for a garage or shed cleanout, while a 20 yard dumpster is the best solution for Large scale projects or complete big objects. The dumpster rental company you hire can help you find the perfect container for the job.

Disposal Option #2: Hire a Junk Removal Service
Like renting a dumpster, a junk disposal companies can help with spring/fall home cleanings, estate cleanouts, yard waste, construction/demolition debris, or general rubbish removal. The difference is that the junk removal company takes care of all the heavy lifting for you.

Hiring a junk removal company is just as easy as renting a dumpster. You simply call, schedule, pay, and enjoy your clutter-free space. The cost is determined by the type and volume of junk or debris to be hauled away (more details below). The junk removal company will give you a free on-site estimate for projects bigger than picking up a few pieces of furniture, for example.

Junk removal companies are pros at removing bulky, heavy items (furniture, appliances, etc.) and large quantities of debris (demolition debris, yard waste, etc.). They work quickly but are also focused on making sure no damage is inflicted to your property in the process.

The majority of junk removal companies recycle a portion of each load. They may also donate gently used items to local charitable organizations and give you a tax deductible receipt for it.

When renting a dumpster makes sense:
You want the flexibility to load the container over time (a typical rental includes up to 7 days)
You don’t mind loading the junk or debris yourself to save a little money on labor
You have at least 7 cubic yards or more of debris (roll-off containers typically start at 10 cubic yards, so if you only have 3 or 4 cubic yards of material, you’re paying for more dumpster than you need)

When hiring a junk removal company makes sense:
You want someone else to load your debris
You want the junk to be removed and out of sight quickly
You only have a few large, bulk trash items (junk removal service is typically cheaper than renting a dumpster in this situation)
You have a lot of debris in a central spot and are willing to pay a little extra for someone else’s labor to load and haul the junk
Dumpster rental costs vs. junk removal service costs
The cost of renting a dumpster or for hiring a junk removal service varies based on several factors, including your location, volume of junk/debris, duration of service, and other factors. In general, junk removal services cost more than renting a dumpster because of the added labor costs involved.

The one exception to this rule is for smaller cleanups, such as moving some furniture out or getting rid of a refrigerator. Here’s a hypothetical example of how this works:
Dumpster Rental Prices (Base rate):
10 yard dumpster: $220
15 yard dumpster: $245
18 yard dumpster: $280
20 yard dumpster: $295
Junk Removal Service Prices:
Minimum charge: $75 – $125
Household junk removal 13 yds: $330-500
Yard Waste 13yds: $330-500

If you are in need of a dumpster rental please give Rent-A-Dumpster a call at 614-870-7447