199 Dumpster Rental - Is it Legit?

Published
March 15, 2024
Written by:
Paul Stratch
Last updated: October 2, 2025

Have you seen ads for a $199 dumpster rental in your area? You’re not alone — these offers pop up across the country, often alongside claims of “cheap dumpster rental.” But here’s the reality: a true flat-rate dumpster rental for $199 is almost unheard of. While some companies advertise this number, it usually only covers part of the cost (like the delivery or haul fee). By the time weight, disposal, and other charges are added, the actual price is much higher.

Is a $199 dumpster rental price legit?

In almost every case, no. A total flat-rate dumpster rental for $199 is virtually nonexistent in the industry. With 15+ years in the dumpster rental business, our team hasn’t seen any legitimate, all-inclusive dumpster rentals at that price point. That’s why we created a quick video breaking it down — so you know what to watch out for before booking.

That doesn’t necessarily mean every company advertising a $199 dumpster rental is running a scam. In some cases, the $199 may only be the haul fee, with disposal and tonnage charges billed separately. While that setup isn’t technically a scam, it is highly misleading. Under this model, the final cost is much higher — often $500 or more once weight and fees are added. Keep this in mind any time you see offers that look unusually cheap.

The dumpster rental scam - what to watch for

dumpster scams

Unfortunately, some ads for “$199 dumpster rentals” are outright scams. Here’s how they typically work:

  • Step 1: The ad — A company advertises extremely low prices online, often around $199–$299 (often on Facebook).
  • Step 2: The booking — You call or book online, give your credit card information, and receive a generic-looking invoice.
  • Step 3: No delivery — The dumpster never shows up, or it arrives days late in the wrong spot.
  • Step 4: No support — Once you’ve been charged, calls and emails go unanswered.

We know this because we’ve seen this happen firsthand with customers who came to us after already being charged by these companies.

It's important to note that not every dumpster rental company offering very cheap prices is a scam. We just want everyone to keep in mind that if something seems too good to be true, sometimes it is. And the fact is that in the last few years the number of dumpster rental companies you can find online has increased exponentially. But, many of them aren't "companies" at all. Many are just one or two people with no dumpster rental experience, some are leads providers, and some of them are the same company using different names.

How To Find A Legit Dumpster Rental Company

search for local dumpsters to rent

Not every low price is a scam, but you should always double-check who you’re renting from. Here are three quick ways to separate the legitimate roll-off providers from the risky ones:

1. Look for a real online presence

  • Legit companies have their own domain (like trashdaddydumpsters.com).
  • They show real photos of their team, dumpsters, and projects.
  • Be cautious if you only see stock images — many “dumpster websites” online look generic and don't belong to highly rated companies with experience in this industry.
Paul Stratch, co-founder of Trash Daddy Dumpsters, speaking about dumpster rental pricing.

2. Check reviews and local listings

  • Reputable haulers and brokers will have a Google Business Profile with reviews from real customers.
  • Here’s ours in Arvada, where you can see what actual customers say about working with us.
  • If a company has no local listing, no reviews, or only vague testimonials, that’s a red flag.

3. Verify pricing clarity

  • Flat-rate pricing is the standard for trustworthy companies.
  • Delivery, pickup, disposal, and a standard rental period should all be included.
  • If a price seems unusually low, ask what’s included, or more importantly what is NOT included — and get it in writing.

FAQs About $199 Dumpster Rentals

Is a 199 dumpster rental real?

Most of the time, no. A $199 dumpster rental offer usually only covers part of the cost, like delivery or the haul fee. Once pickup, disposal, and weight are added, the final price often will exceed $500.

What is the average cost of a dumpster rental?

In most areas, a roll-off dumpster rental ranges from $450 to $600 depending on size, location, and disposal rates. While you might see cheaper ads, flat-rate pricing in this range is what legitimate companies charge.

How can I avoid dumpster rental scams?

Choose a company with flat-rate pricing, real reviews, and a clear online presence. Check their Google Business Profile, look for real photos (not stock images), and avoid websites that seem generic or have vague pricing details.

Is a 199 dumpster rental a real thing? Final thoughts.

None of our experienced team has ever seen or heard of a true all-inclusive $199 dumpster rental. Some ads are simply misleading with hidden fees, while others are outright scams. The reality is that most legitimate roll-off rentals cost between $450 and $600, depending on size and location.

The safest way to rent is to work with a company that offers flat-rate pricing, transparent terms, and real customer reviews. That way, you know exactly what you’re paying for before the dumpster arrives.

At Trash Daddy Dumpsters, we’ve been in the roll-off industry for over 15 years. We make it simple: one flat price, no gimmicks, and real support from experienced people.

Still unsure? Order online in minutes — or call us if you’d like help choosing the right size.

call trash daddy now button