Dumpster rentals come in a variety of sizes. Some are more available and affordable than others, depending on the location and size. Below we will answer that question for you, but we will also provide you more clarity on some differences between these two sizes. There are two main things to consider relating to this question: dumpster dimensions and price vs value.
One thing to consider here is the size difference between the 15 yard dumpster and the 20 yard dumpster. The 15 yard has a smaller "footprint", meaning it does not take up as much space as a 20 yard. A typical 15 yard dumpster is about 16 feet long, about 8 feet wide and 4 feet tall. This makes these dumpsters ideal for smaller spaces. Obviously, being a smaller size it can't hold as much material. A 15 yard can hold roughly 7 pickup truck loads of trash.
The 20 yard is a little longer at 22 feet long, the same width, but a little bit shorter at about 3.5 feet tall. The 20 yard holds more material, has a higher weight limit and still fits in most residential driveways. The 20 will hold about 8 pickup truck loads of junk.
Both of these sizes are typically 'low-profile,' standing only about 4 feet tall. This is a major advantage for guidelines and ease of use. Instead of lifting heavy debris over your head (like you would with a 30 or 40-yard), you can easily toss items over the side or walk them in through the rear door. With the 20-yard being slightly shorter, this makes the 20-yard the 'sweet spot' for most homeowners—maximum volume without the back-breaking height.
Tip: if you are trying to save money by looking at a smaller size, read more below about why that's not usually your best option with dumpster rentals.
It's very common for people to think they might want a smaller size, like a 15 yard, to try to keep the cost down. However, in dumpster rental that kind of thinking can actually work against you.
It is true that a smaller size will generally cost less, all things being equal (like rental period, etc.). But, what most people don't know is that the price difference to get a larger size is typically very small. For example, a 15 yard in Denver can cost $485, but a 20 yard is only $490. It's often very inexpensive to go up to the next size.
The other factor to consider is size. When you start throwing things out and you rent a smaller size, like a 15 yard, those tend to fill up quicker than most people think. The 15 yard has a lower weight limit than the 20 yard, so if you fill it to the point that it's over the weight limit, it could actually end up costing you more than the 20 yard in the end.
The 20-yard dumpster holds about 8 pickup truck beds. That extra 33% of space is often the difference between finishing your project in one go or having to pay for a second dumpster because you ran out of room.
In almost every area, a 20 yard is usually the better choice. The 20 yard is normally more readily available, it has a higher weight limit/capacity, and it's only slightly longer. It's a better value for the price. It's also not super tall, making it a very popular size in every area. At Trash Daddy we do have smaller dumpsters, but just like other haulers, there are not nearly as many of the smaller sizes as there are of the 20 yards. We hope this article has given you some direction on choosing the right size for you. But, if you need any help, we have been in the business a long time. Reach out and one of our dumpster rental experts would be happy to answer any questions you might have!
