What Is the Most Common Size Dumpster Rental?

The most common dumpster size is the 20 yard dumpster. It offers the best mix of capacity, value, convenience, and availability, which makes it the go-to choice for both homeowners and contractors.

Why the 20-Yard Dumpster Is The Most Common Size

• Versatile for most projects — Ideal for cleanouts, small remodels, roofing jobs, and flooring removal.
• Fits most driveways — About 22′ long, 8′ wide, and 3.5–4′ tall.
• Practical capacity — Holds about 8 pickup truck loads, with ~2 tons of disposal typically included in the flat-rate price.

The 20 yard dumpster is widely available from haulers and priced not much more than the smaller sizes, which adds to its popularity. This balance of size, value, and convenience is why it remains the most common rental option nationwide.

🎯 Pro tip: Some companies also offer a “high-side 20” — a compact version that’s shorter in length but taller in height. It holds the same 20 cubic yards but can fit better in short or narrow driveways. Availability depends on location. Check your service area or contact us for details.

Dumpster Sizes Compared: Is a 20 Yard Right for You?

The 20 yard is the most common size, but sometimes a smaller or larger bin may be a better fit:

• 10 yard dumpster: About 11′ × 8′ × 3.5′. Best for small cleanouts, yard waste, or bathroom remodels. Holds about 4 pickup loads.
• 15 yard dumpster: About 16′ × 8′ × 4′. A great in-between for room renovations, downsizing, or light junk removal. Holds 6-7 pickup loads.
• 20 yard dumpster: About 22′ × 8′ × 3.5–4′. The most common dumpster size — versatile for cleanouts, remodels, and general junk removal. Holds about 8 pickup loads.
• 30 yard dumpster: About 22′ × 8′ × 6′. Best for full home remodels, bulky furniture, or large volumes of drywall/wood. Holds about 12 pickup loads.
• 40 yard dumpster: About 22′ × 8′ × 8′. Used for major construction, estate cleanouts, or commercial projects. Holds 14–16 pickup loads.

Choosing the right dumpster size up front helps avoid the extra cost and hassle of ordering a second dumpster later.

Most Common Dumpster Size FAQs

How much does it cost to rent a 20 yard dumpster?

Prices vary by service area, but the typical flat-rate price for a 20 yard is usually approximately $500. This is one of the most affordable sizes because haulers keep more of them in inventory. Flat-rate pricing includes delivery, pickup, disposal, and a standard weight allowance.

Can you put heavy materials in a 20 yard dumpster?

A 20 yard can technically hold well over 10 tons of material, but most haulers limit heavy debris like concrete, dirt, or brick to smaller dumpsters. For heavy jobs, check out our concrete dumpster rental guide.

Does the 20 yard dumpster have a door?

Yes, all roll-off dumpsters have a door on one end. You can see how they work on our How to Open a Dumpster Door guide. Many people prefer the 20 yard because it’s short enough to toss debris over the side without using the door.

Is the 20 Yard Dumpster the Right Size for You?

The 20 yard dumpster is the most common rental size because it offers the best balance of space, convenience, and value. It’s large enough for remodels, cleanouts, and small construction projects, yet compact enough to fit in most driveways.

Still not sure if it’s the right fit? At Trash Daddy Dumpsters, we’re the dumpster rental experts. Our team can quickly recommend the best size for your project and location.

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