When tackling a home renovation, cleanout, or construction project, one of the most overlooked (but crucial) decisions is choosing the right dumpster size. Pick one that’s too small, and you’ll deal with overflow and multiple hauls. Go too big, and you might overspend. The most common options—10, 15, and 20 yard dumpsters—each serve different needs. So how do you know which one is right for your project?
Let’s break down the pros, cons, and best use cases for each size, with a special focus on 20 yd dumpster dimensions, since it’s one of the most versatile options available.
10 Yard Dumpster: Compact & Convenient
A 10 yard dumpster is a solid choice for smaller-scale projects, such as:
- Garage or attic cleanouts
- Small bathroom remodels
- Yard debris removal
Key Dimensions:
- Typical size: 10 ft long x 7 ft wide x 3.5 ft high
- Capacity: About 3 pickup truck loads
If you’re working with limited space or tight access, a 10 yard dumpster offers the flexibility to get the job done without taking up too much room in your driveway.
15 Yard Dumpster: A Happy Medium
Not too big, not too small—the 15 yard dumpster is great for:
- Medium-sized home projects
- Roof tear-offs
- Flooring removal
Key Dimensions:
- Typical size: 16 ft long x 7.5 ft wide x 4.5 ft high
- Capacity: Roughly 4.5 pickup truck loads
It’s a great fit when you need a bit more room than a 10 yarder but aren’t quite ready to go full-scale with a 20 yard bin.
20 Yard Dumpster: Maximum Versatility
The 20 yard dumpster is one of the most popular choices for both residential and commercial customers—and for good reason.
Ideal for:
- Full kitchen or bathroom remodels
- Basement or multi-room cleanouts
- Small construction or roofing jobs
Key Dimensions:
- Typical size: 22 ft long x 7.5 ft wide x 4.5 ft high
- Capacity: About 6 pickup truck loads
Because of its generous capacity and manageable footprint, this size hits the sweet spot for many projects. If you’re unsure which size to choose, the 20 yard is often the safest bet.
💡 Want more details? Check out our complete 20 yard dumpster sizing guide for a deeper dive into 20 yd dumpster dimensions, weight limits, and what you can (and can’t) toss inside.
Choose With Confidence
Still unsure? Here’s a quick recap:
| Dumpster Size | Best For | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| 10 Yard | Small cleanouts, light renovation | 3 pickup loads |
| 15 Yard | Medium projects, minor remodels | 4.5 pickup loads |
| 20 Yard | Larger renovations, construction debris | 6 pickup loads |
Before you decide, consider:
- Type and volume of debris
- Space available for placement
- Local regulations and weight limits
Choosing the right dumpster doesn’t have to be complicated. And when in doubt, leaning toward a 20 yard container often gives you the room you need without going overboard.