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Frequently Asked Questions

QHow do I prepare for a dumpster delivery?  
A

Clear the area where you want the dumpster dropped off. Remove vehicles or anything in the way. The surface should be firm and level, and if you’re worried about damage to your driveway or lawn, lay down boards or plywood ahead of time. Let neighbors or anyone using the space know what’s going on, especially if the container will block access temporarily.
 

QIs there a best time of year to rent a dumpster?  
A

Spring and early summer tend to be busier, especially with yard cleanups, moves, and remodels ramping up. If you're planning something during those months, book ahead of time to make sure you get the size and schedule you need. That said, dumpster rentals are available year-round, so you can line one up whenever you need it.
 

QWhat’s the difference between roll-off and front-load dumpsters?  
A

Roll-off dumpsters are the big, open-top containers delivered for temporary use. They’re perfect for home improvement, cleanouts, or landscaping. Front-load dumpsters are smaller, have lids, and are used for ongoing services, like at businesses or apartment buildings. 
 

QCan I share a dumpster with a neighbor?  
A

Yes. Some people do this for joint cleanouts or neighborhood projects. Just be sure that everyone is on the same page. Both parties need to be aware of what can and can’t go inside. The container will also need to be placed in an accessible spot, and you’ll need to negotiate who will be responsible for the agreement.
 

QAre there special dumpsters for heavy materials like concrete or brick?
A

Yes, there are. These are usually specialized containers that are made to handle the weight of dense debris. If your project involves concrete removal, dirt, bricks, or similar materials, ask for a dumpster that’s designed for heavy loads so your disposal is safer and more cost-effective.

QCan bad weather affect my dumpster rental?  
A

It can. Rain or snow won’t stop the rental itself, but it can make certain things trickier. Wet materials weigh more, which could push you over the weight limit. Soft or muddy ground can also make the delivery or pickup more difficult. If you’re expecting a storm, a tarp can help keep the contents dry and lighter. 
 

QDo I need to be home for delivery or pickup?  
A

Not always. As long as the area is clear and accessible, delivery and pickup can usually happen without anyone present. Just make sure the space is accessible. Gates should be unlocked, and vehicles need to be out of the way. 
 

QCan I rent a dumpster for just one day?  
A

Sure, a single day is usually doable if your schedule lines up with ours. It’s more common for rentals to last several days just to give you time to load it without stress. But if the job is quick, then ask about what times are available. 
 

QWhat’s the best way to load a dumpster? 
A

Start with flat or heavy items at the bottom and work upward. If you’re throwing out things like shelves or desks, break them down before tossing them in to save a ton of space. Spread the weight out evenly, too, so the dumpster isn’t heavier on one side.
 

QIs it safe to park a dumpster on a slope?
A

Dumpsters should always be placed on flat, stable ground. A slight slope might be manageable depending on how level it is, but anything too steep can be a safety issue for the delivery truck and the container itself. 

QCan dumpsters be placed on driveways or lawns?  
A

Yes, driveways are a common spot for dumpsters because they’re usually flat and out of the way of traffic. Lawns can work, too, but there’s a higher risk of damage, especially if the ground is soft or recently rained on. To protect surfaces, some people put down wooden planks or plywood before delivery. 

QWhat happens if I go over the weight limit?
A

Going over the weight limit may result in additional charges. These are typically calculated based on how many tons the load exceeds the limit. It’s not always easy to guess the weight of your load just by looking at it, so if you’re dealing with a lot of heavy materials, you may need a different dumpster size. 

QDo I need a permit to rent a dumpster?
A

That is not always the case; it depends on where the dumpster will be placed. Permits are sometimes required if the dumpster will be on public property, like a street or sidewalk. If it’s going on private property, permits are usually not needed. They are usually inexpensive and easy to get through the public works or permitting office, but it’s a step worth planning for. Local ordinances vary, so check with your city.

QCan I dispose of electronics or appliances in a dumpster?  
A

That depends on local rules. Some places restrict the disposal of items like TVs, refrigerators, and computers because they contain components that need to be handled separately or recycled. Appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners might contain Freon, in which case they’ll be restricted. 

QCan I mix different materials in the same dumpster?
A

In general, yes, but there are exceptions. Certain materials, like yard waste, metal, or concert,e may need to be separated depending on where the waste is going. It’s best to confirm based on local regulations.

QWhat is Scrap It Dumpster?
A

Scrap It Dumpster is a dumpster rental service designed to help individuals, contractors, and businesses with waste disposal.

QIs there a weight limit for what I can put in a dumpster?  
A

Yes, every dumpster has a weight limit based on its size and the materials being tossed. Light materials like household junk will rarely hit that limit. Heavy items like concrete, shingles, or dirt can add up quickly, so check ahead.

QHow do I figure out what size dumpster I need?  
A

Start by thinking about the scope of your project. Choosing the right size depends on how much debris you expect to have. Smaller projects like room cleanouts might need a compact size, while larger jobs like roofing or renovations may call for a larger container. If you’re on the fence between two sizes, it’s usually smarter to go with the bigger one so you don’t need a second rental last minute. 

QWhat types of items are not allowed in a dumpster?
A

There’s a pretty consistent list of things you shouldn’t toss into a dumpster, no matter where you live. Commonly restricted items include paint, motor oil, batteries, tires, asbestos, medical waste, and anything labeled hazardous. These materials require special disposal at approved facilities.

QWhat can go in a dumpster?
A

Most dumpsters are designed to handle non-hazardous waste. That includes old furniture, household junk, yard waste, and construction debris. If it’s something you’d find during a home cleanout or landscaping project, it’s probably allowed. It’s important to avoid items that are flammable, toxic, or restricted by local disposal laws.