The Dumpster Size Calculator figures out how big a dumpster you need. It finds the dumpster’s volume in cubic yards using its dimensions or estimates the size based on your waste amount. This is great for real-life decisions, like renting the right dumpster, avoiding extra fees, or planning a cleanup project.
This calculator saves money and time by matching your waste to the perfect size—no overpaying for too big or struggling with too small. It’s reliable for important tasks, like managing budgets or keeping a site safe. Want to know how it’s calculated? Let’s check out the formula next.
Formula for Dumpster Size
The formula for finding dumpster volume is simple:
Dumpster Volume (cubic yards) = L × W × H / 27
Where:
- L = Length of dumpster (feet)
- W = Width of dumpster (feet)
- H = Height of dumpster (feet)
- 27 = Conversion factor from cubic feet to cubic yards
Waste Volume Estimate
To estimate from waste weight:
Waste Volume (cubic yards) = Total Waste Weight (lbs) / (Density Factor × 27)
Where:
- Density Factor = Waste material density (lbs/cubic foot)
Common density factors:
- Household trash: 150-200 lbs/cu ft
- Construction debris: 300-400 lbs/cu ft
- Yard waste: 100-150 lbs/cu ft
These formulas come from waste management standards. Use feet for dimensions and pounds for weight. Now, let’s make it easier with a table.
Quick Reference Table for Dumpster Sizes
Why calculate every time? This table shows common dumpster sizes and waste capacities. It’s a fast way to pick without math.
| Dumpster Size (cu yd) | Dimensions (L×W×H, ft) | Max Waste (lbs, Household) | Max Waste (lbs, Construction) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 12×8×4 | 2,000-2,700 | 4,000-5,400 |
| 20 | 22×8×4 | 4,000-5,400 | 8,000-10,800 |
| 30 | 22×8×6 | 6,000-8,100 | 12,000-16,200 |
How to Use the Table
- Pick your waste type and weight.
- Find the smallest dumpster that fits.
- Use it to plan your rental.
This table helps with searches like “dumpster size for 5,000 lbs trash.” For exact results, use the formula. Next, let’s try an example.
Example of Dumpster Size Calculator
Suppose you have 6,000 pounds of construction debris with a density of 350 lbs/cu ft. You want to know the dumpster size needed. Here’s how to do it:
- Plug into the waste volume formula:
Waste Volume = Total Waste Weight / (Density Factor × 27)
Waste Volume = 6,000 / (350 × 27) - Calculate step-by-step:
- 350 × 27 = 9,450
- 6,000 / 9,450 ≈ 0.63 cu yd
- Check common sizes:
- 0.63 cu yd is tiny—real dumpsters start at 10 cu yd.
- For 6,000 lbs, a 20 cu yd dumpster (up to 10,800 lbs) works.
So, a 20-cubic-yard dumpster fits your 6,000 pounds of debris. This matches rental standards and keeps your job smooth.
Most Common FAQs
The right size saves money—too small means extra trips, too big wastes cash.
Estimate by type—trash is lighter, construction stuff is heavier—or weigh a sample.
Yes, but use the heaviest density to be safe, so you don’t overload the dumpster.