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Dumpster Weight Calculators
Use Our Dumpster Size Calculators to Pick the Right Container
Estimating the weight of your construction and demolition debris is essential to finding the right dumpster for the job. Use our weight calculators to find a dumpster with the right size and weight capacity for your specific materials.
How to Use Our Dumpster Calculators
To use our calculators, simply fill in the fields with the relevant information and click “Estimate My Weight.” You’ll then see an estimated weight value for your debris displayed in pounds and tons.
Once you have a weight estimate, use it to determine the right dumpster size when you place an order. If you’re not sure, give us a call. We’ll personalize your quote to help you choose a proper size and weight limit for your project.
Our weight calculators are for estimation purposes and don’t guarantee the cost of services. We use these calculators to give you an idea of what your project debris might weigh, but know that these estimates can change depending on the different materials you're throwing away.
Why Your Dumpster’s Weight Limit Matters
While your debris may fit within the volume of the container you rent, the weight of your debris can exceed the dumpster’s weight limit. For example, a 10 yard dumpster filled with tree branches will weigh less than the same dumpster filled with broken concrete. This means you can only partially fill specific dumpster sizes with those heavier materials to stay within the weight limit.
Landfills charge disposal costs by the ton. Exceeding the dumpster’s weight limit will result in a per-ton overage fee. Always consider the type and weight of your materials when choosing a dumpster.
Concrete and Asphalt Weight Calculator
How Much Does Concrete or Asphalt Weigh?
On average, a cubic yard of solid concrete weighs 4,050 pounds (~2 tons), or 150 pounds per cubic foot. Solid asphalt weighs slightly less at 3,960 pounds per cubic yard. We base concrete and asphalt weights on the square footage and thickness of the material.
Broken concrete and asphalt weigh closer to 2,025 pounds (~1 ton) per cubic yard, or 75 pounds per cubic foot, when disposed of in a dumpster because of the extra empty space. Use our concrete weight calculator to determine the right dumpster for broken up concrete and asphalt.
Concrete Weight Calculator
Estimated weight:
Shingles Weight Calculator
How Much Does a Bundle of Shingles Weigh?
You can estimate the weight of shingles in squares or bundles. Generally, three bundles of asphalt shingles are enough to cover one roofing square (100 square feet). A bundle of three-tab asphalt shingles weighs between 60 pounds and 80 pounds. A square weighs between 180 pounds and 240 pounds.
Shingle weights will vary depending on the quality and type of shingle. If you’re removing architectural shingles, they will weigh between 70 pounds and 80 pounds per bundle. Slate shingles weigh much more, between 250 pounds and 350 pounds per bundle.
Use our shingle weight calculator to see what dumpster size you need for a roof tear-off or removal.
Shingles Weight Calculator
Estimated weight:
Drywall Weight Calculator
How Much Does Drywall Weigh?
A single sheet of 4 feet by 8 feet, half-inch thick drywall weighs nearly 50 pounds. Calculate the weight of drywall, sheetrock and plaster using the square footage of debris and the thickness of the material. If you’re removing drywall, use our drywall weight calculator to estimate the weight of your drywall and determine the right size dumpster for your job.
Drywall Weight Calculator
Estimated weight:
Carpet Weight Calculator
How Much Does Carpet Weigh?
Carpet can weigh anywhere from 5 pounds to 20 pounds per square yard or 0.5 pounds to 2.2 pounds per square foot. The weight of your carpet will vary based on the material and thickness. Use the carpet weight calculator to get a rough estimate on the carpet you’re removing.
Pro-Tip for Carpet and Absorbent Materials
Carpet and other absorbent materials, such as dirt and upholstered furniture, become heavier when wet. This adds excess weight to your roll off container. If it rains during your rental period, cover your bin with a tarp secured with bungee cords or straps to prevent those absorbent materials from soaking up the water.
Carpet Weight Calculator
Estimated weight:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight does each dumpster size hold?
Our dumpsters can hold anywhere between 1 and 10 tons. Use our weight limits guide to help estimate how much weight each dumpster size can hold.
How many pounds are in a ton?
There are 2,000 pounds in a ton.
There isn’t a calculator for something I’m throwing away. How do I choose a size?
Use our dumpster sizes infographic to figure out which dumpster size fits common project materials. When you order a dumpster rental, our sales representatives can answer other questions you have about specific materials to help you pick the right size.
How much does scrap metal weigh?
One cubic yard of scrap metal weighs about 225 pounds.
What if I have more than 10 tons of debris?
You can rent multiple dumpsters at the same time, as long as we have the availability. We can deliver the containers to your work area together, staggered, or to more than one jobsite. If you only have room for one bin at a time, our empty-and-return service allows you to swap out your full dumpster for a new one after you fill it up.
Do I need to include the weight of the dumpster itself in my estimate?
No, dumpster weights do not factor into determining weight limits or disposal costs.
Have Questions About the Weight of Your Debris?
Get in touch with us today to ask about the weight of your items.
We’ll personalize your quote and help you choose the right dumpster for your project.