10 vs 15 vs 20 vs 30 Yard Dumpster: Which Size Do You Need?
A practical comparison for Chicagoland homeowners and contractors — with project examples, pricing, and the mistakes that cost people money.
Key Takeaways
- • 10-yard: single-room cleanouts, small deck teardowns, minor remodel debris
- • 15-yard: garage cleanouts, bathroom remodels, medium landscaping projects
- • 20-yard: full kitchen/bath renovations, shed demolitions, estate cleanouts
- • 30-yard: construction projects, roofing, large demo jobs, contractor use
- • When in doubt, go one size up — it costs less than a second delivery
Ordering the wrong dumpster size is the most common mistake we see. Go too small and you're paying for a second pickup and redelivery. Go too big and you're paying for space you didn't use — though that's the better of the two problems.
This guide breaks down every size we offer for dumpster rental in Chicagoland, what fits, what doesn't, and how to pick the right one for your project.
Dumpster size comparison chart
| Size | Approx. Dimensions | Pickup Truck Loads | Typical Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10-yard | 12 ft × 8 ft × 4 ft | 3 loads | $350–$420 |
| 15-yard | 16 ft × 8 ft × 4.5 ft | 4–5 loads | $420–$500 |
| 20-yard | 22 ft × 8 ft × 4.5 ft | 6–8 loads | $500–$600 |
| 30-yard | 22 ft × 8 ft × 6 ft | 9–12 loads | $600–$700 |
Dimensions are approximate and vary by unit. Pricing reflects DuPage/Kane/Cook county delivery. Weight overages billed separately.
When to use each size
10-Yard Dumpster
The smallest roll-off we offer — about the size of a large pickup truck bed. Right for single-room projects and light cleanouts.
- ✓ Single bedroom or bathroom cleanout
- ✓ Small deck or shed teardown (under 150 sq ft)
- ✓ Bathroom tile and drywall from one room
- ✓ Landscaping debris from a small yard project
Skip the 10-yard if: you have bulky furniture, a full garage, or debris from more than two rooms.
15-Yard Dumpster
The most popular size for suburban homeowners. Handles most single-project cleanouts comfortably.
- ✓ Garage cleanout — typical 2-car garage
- ✓ Kitchen or bathroom renovation debris
- ✓ Medium deck (150–250 sq ft) demolition
- ✓ Basement cleanout (moderate amount)
Step up to a 20-yard if: garage is packed floor-to-ceiling or you're adding basement items.
20-Yard Dumpster
The contractor's standard for mid-size renovations and larger property cleanouts.
- ✓ Estate cleanouts — whole-house clearing
- ✓ Full kitchen and bath renovation combined
- ✓ Large shed or garage demolition
- ✓ Roofing projects (1,500–2,000 sq ft home)
- ✓ Construction debris removal from remodel
Step up to a 30-yard if: full gut renovation, multi-room demo, or contractor project spanning several days.
30-Yard Dumpster
The largest container — for major construction, large-scale demo, and new-build projects.
- ✓ Full demolition projects — decks, structures, interior gut
- ✓ New home construction waste
- ✓ Commercial cleanouts and build-outs
- ✓ Multi-week contractor projects with swap service
- ✓ Large estate or whole-property clearing
Decision guide: pick your size in 60 seconds
| Your project | Get this size |
|---|---|
| Single room cleanout or small shed | 10-yard |
| Garage cleanout or bathroom remodel | 15-yard |
| Whole-house cleanout or kitchen renovation | 20-yard |
| Major demolition or contractor project | 30-yard |
| Not sure / mixed debris types | Call us — we'll help you choose |
The two most common sizing mistakes
Ordering too small is the more expensive mistake. When your 10-yard fills up halfway through the garage, you're paying for the pickup, then paying for a new delivery — sometimes adding $150–$200 in extra charges. The extra $70 to step up from a 10 to a 15 almost always beats a redelivery fee.
Ordering too big costs a bit more upfront but gives you the flexibility to add "one more thing" without stress. Empty air in a dumpster is far cheaper than overflow charges or a second trip.
Not sure? Text us a photo or describe your project — we'll recommend the right size and you won't pay for space you don't use.
Book the right size today
Tell us your project and we'll confirm the right size and availability. Same-day delivery available when you call before noon.
Frequently asked questions
What size dumpster do I need for a garage cleanout?
A 10-yard handles most single-car garage cleanouts (about 3 pickup truck loads). For a two-car garage packed floor-to-ceiling, step up to a 15-yard. If you're adding basement or attic items, a 20-yard gives comfortable room.
How much does a dumpster rental cost in Chicagoland?
Dumpster rental starts at $350 for a 10-yard and ranges to $650–$700 for a 30-yard. Pricing includes delivery, pickup, and standard weight. Overweight fees apply if debris exceeds the weight limit.
Can I put roofing shingles in a roll-off dumpster?
Yes — shingles are allowed but heavy. A full square of architectural shingles weighs ~350 lbs. For a roofing project, always discuss weight expectations with us before booking to get the right container and avoid overweight fees.