Learn From These Common Mistakes to Ensure a Problem-Free Cleanup
Choosing the Wrong Size
A 12-yard container holds the equivalent of the size of a midsize car. The larger the dumpster, the higher the ton cap. This may save you money in the end. Make sure you are ordering the right size container for your job. If you are not sure, always contact the company where you ordered the container from to get their expert advice.
Overfilling a Dumpster
Never overfill the container. The max loading level on any size dumpster is to the top of the dumpster. When you rent a specific dumpster, you are provided with specific instructions that the dumpster should not have any items sticking up beyond the top opening of the dumpster. Do not overload the container, as it will not be able to haul safely, and may damage the tarp system.
Picking the Wrong Spot for Dumpster Collection
Please make sure there is 15’ top clearance for the dumpster truck to get under. When lifting the dumpster to be unloaded it will need 35’ top clearance. Trim branches and bushes to allow the truck to operate safely on your property. Dumpsters must be placed on a solid surface. If you need to place it on grass, plywood boards will be needed to be placed under the dumpster to avoid damage when the ground is wet. Avoid placing the dumpster under basketball hoops. Medium 20-yard and large 30-yard dumpsters in general do not fit in alleyways. Placing the container in the street may require a street permit and barricades, you may need to contact the rental company and your local municipality for more details. Choosing an appropriate location for your dumpster is an essential step in successfully disposing of your waste. The location must be accessible and safe to you and the dumpster rental company.
Expecting a Dumpster Delivery in the Morning
Early am deliveries can be requested but never guaranteed due to the everchanging schedule of a dumpster truck. If you need your dumpster in the am, order your dumpster for the day before. Ordering a container online a few days if not weeks before your project is strongly encouraged, as this gives the rental company time to review your request and instruction for a safe and timely delivery. Never assume that they will have time or inventory to make a delivery the same day.
Loading a Dumpster with Restricted Items
Placing prohibited items in the dumpster, including liquids, tires, hazardous materials, and electronics, is not allowed. This includes lead-acid batteries, fluorescent lamps, asbestos, gas, oil, wet paint, radioactive waste, medical waste, flammable or explosive materials, large yard waste, concrete/asphalt, dirt, large appliances, and tires. No hazardous materials should be placed in the dumpster. Computers (desktop, laptop, notebook, and tablet computers), desktop printers (including those that scan, fax, and/or copy), computer monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers, external hard drives, flash drives, DVD players, VCRs, and other video players (i.e., DVRs), fax machines, and cell phones are also prohibited.
Dumpsters containing restricted items can be declined by the driver, resulting in a trip fee. These restricted items are likely to incur additional fees at the landfill. It's important to adhere to these guidelines to ensure safety, compliance, and avoid extra costs.
**Not following company rules can have a huge impact on safety, the environment and your wallet. Read the terms of your dumpster rental company's agreement, many have rules and a list of items that are forbidden to place in the containers. Feel free to call or text us with any questions you may have.