What Size Dumpster Do I Need?
Choosing the right dumpster size saves you money and hassle. Use this guide to compare our 15, 20, and 30 yard trailer-style dumpsters side by side, or text us a photo of your debris for a free recommendation.
Compare Dumpster Sizes
All dumpsters are trailer-style with easy-open doors. Driveway-friendly delivery throughout the Des Moines metro.
| 15 Yard | 20 Yard | 30 Yard | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (approx.) | 14' L x 7.5' W x 4' H | 16' L x 7.5' W x 4.5' H | 22' L x 7.5' W x 5' H |
| Capacity (truck loads) | 4 – 5 pickup loads | 6 – 8 pickup loads | 10 – 12 pickup loads |
| Price Range | $259 – $299 | $279 – $319 | $449 – $549 |
| Weight Included | 2,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs |
| Overage Rate | $0.04/lb | $0.04/lb | $0.04/lb |
| Rental Options | 1, 3, or 7 day | 1, 3, or 7 day | 1, 3, 7, 14, or 30 day |
| Best For | Garage cleanouts, small remodels, single-room purges | Kitchen remodels, larger cleanouts, roofing jobs | Full home cleanouts, contractor demo, large roofing projects |
All rentals include drop-off and pickup. Most loads stay under the included weight. Additional weight is $0.04 per pound.
Dumpster Size by Project Type
Not sure which size fits your job? Here are our recommendations based on the most common projects we handle in the Des Moines area.
Garage Cleanout
Recommended: 15 Yard Dumpster — A standard single or two-car garage cleanout fits comfortably in a 15 yard. If your garage is packed floor to ceiling with heavy items, consider stepping up to a 20 yard.
Bathroom Remodel
Recommended: 15 Yard Dumpster — Tile, vanity, drywall, and fixtures from a single bathroom remodel typically fit in a 15 yard with room to spare.
Kitchen Remodel
Recommended: 20 Yard Dumpster — Cabinets, countertops, flooring, and drywall add up fast. A 20 yard gives you the extra room needed for a full kitchen tear-out.
Full Home Cleanout
Recommended: 20 Yard or 30 Yard Dumpster — Estate cleanouts, move-outs, and whole-house purges vary widely. A 20 yard handles most single-story homes. For larger homes or heavily packed properties, go with a 30 yard.
Roofing Job
Recommended: 20 Yard or 30 Yard Dumpster — A 20 yard works well for a single-layer roof on a standard home. Multi-layer tear-offs or larger roofs should go with a 30 yard. Shingles are heavy, so keep weight limits in mind.
Contractor Demo
Recommended: 30 Yard Dumpster — Demolition debris from commercial or large residential projects fills up fast. The 30 yard gives you 5,000 lbs included and extended rental options up to 30 days.
Still Not Sure? Text Us a Photo.
Snap a photo of the debris, the room, or the space you are clearing out. Text it to (515) 490-8027 and we will reply with a size recommendation, usually within minutes. It is the fastest way to get the right dumpster for your project.
Explore Each Dumpster Size
Want more details on a specific size? Visit the dedicated page for dimensions, pricing breakdowns, photos, and project examples.
Serving the Des Moines Metro
Dumpster Doctor delivers driveway-friendly trailer dumpsters throughout the Des Moines area. We serve Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, and surrounding communities. Not sure if we cover your area? Text your address to (515) 490-8027 and we will confirm.
Dumpster Size FAQ
What size dumpster do I need for a garage cleanout?
A 15 yard dumpster is usually the right size for a single or two-car garage cleanout. It holds about 4-5 pickup truck loads and fits easily in most Des Moines driveways. If your garage is packed floor to ceiling, consider a 20 yard.
What is the difference between a 15 and 20 yard dumpster?
A 15 yard holds about 4-5 pickup truck loads, while a 20 yard holds about 6-8 loads. The 20 yard is slightly larger in dimensions and works better for kitchen remodels, larger cleanouts, and roofing jobs. Both include 2,000 lbs of weight with a $0.04/lb overage rate.
How do I know if I need a 30 yard dumpster?
A 30 yard dumpster is best for large-scale projects like full home cleanouts, major remodels, contractor demo jobs, and big roofing projects. It holds about 10-12 pickup truck loads and includes 5,000 lbs of weight. If your project involves multiple rooms or a full property cleanout, the 30 yard is usually the right call.
Can I text a photo to get a size recommendation?
Yes. Text a photo of your debris or the space you are clearing to (515) 490-8027 and we will reply with a size recommendation, usually within minutes. This is the fastest way to get a personalized recommendation for your project.
Ready to Book?
Pick your size, choose your rental length, and we will deliver a driveway-friendly trailer dumpster to your Des Moines area home or job site. Questions? Call or text anytime.