20 Yard Dumpster — Size Guide, Dimensions & Pricing
The 20-yard dumpster is the most popular size in the US — and for good reason. It hits the sweet spot for whole-home cleanouts, medium roofing replacements, large renovation projects, and multi-room remodels. Most rental companies stock more 20-yard containers than any other size because they're versatile enough for both large residential and small commercial jobs. If you're not sure what size you need, the 20-yard is usually the safe choice.
20 Yard Dumpster Dimensions
What Fits in a 20 Yard Dumpster?
What Fits
- Whole-house cleanouts (furniture, appliances, miscellaneous)
- Roofing tear-off on homes up to 2,000 sq ft
- Large kitchen + bathroom combined renovation
- Siding or window replacement debris
- Large deck or patio demolition
- Basement finishing or full renovation
- Multi-room flooring replacement (hardwood, tile)
- Light demolition from small additions
What Doesn't Fit Well
- Very large construction projects (new builds, major additions)
- Commercial demolition debris
- Multiple roofing layers on large homes
- Full concrete driveway removal (too heavy)
Is a 20 Yard Dumpster Right for Your Project?
Best for:
- Whole-home cleanouts and estate sales
- Roofing replacements on average-sized homes
- Large remodeling projects spanning multiple rooms
- Siding or exterior renovation debris
- Large landscaping and yard overhauls
Not ideal for:
- Large commercial or industrial jobs
- Major new construction framing
- Projects needing more than 12 pickup truck loads
Heavy Material Note
The 20-yard is often used for roofing, but shingles are dense. Multiple layers of old shingles on a large roof can exceed weight limits. Confirm tonnage allowances with your provider before booking.
How Much Does a 20 Yard Dumpster Cost?
Includes delivery, pickup, and standard weight allowance (7–14 days rental). Actual price varies by city, company, and debris type.
20 Yard Dumpster — Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a 20-yard dumpster cost?
A 20-yard dumpster costs $375–$575 on average nationally. It's the most commonly rented size and prices are competitive. Exact pricing depends on your city, landfill fees, and rental duration.
What can I put in a 20-yard dumpster?
Most household debris is accepted: furniture, appliances, drywall, lumber, carpet, roofing shingles, and general construction waste. Hazardous materials (paint, batteries, propane tanks) are never accepted.
Is a 20-yard dumpster big enough for a whole-house cleanout?
For most average-sized homes (1,500–2,500 sq ft), yes — a 20-yard handles typical cleanout volume. Very large homes or those with excessive accumulation may need a 30-yard.
How large of a roof can a 20-yard dumpster handle?
A single layer of asphalt shingles from a 1,500–2,000 sq ft roof typically fits within a 20-yard's weight limit. Multiple layers or heavier materials may require a larger container.
How long can I rent a 20-yard dumpster?
Most rentals include 7–14 days. For larger projects, ask for a 2-week rental upfront — adding days later is typically more expensive than booking them in advance.