How it works
Each material has a typical weight per loose cubic yard from the US EPA: volume-to-weight conversion factors (2016). One pickup-truck load counts as about 2.5 cubic yards, because Fixr notes a 10-yard holds about four pickup loads (Fixr: dumpster rental cost (updated January 2025)). We suggest the smallest size with about 10% room to spare, then check the weight against the capacity Fixr uses for that size (about 2,000 lb for a 10-yard, 3,000 for a 20, 4,300 for a 30 and 5,500 for a 40).
| Material | Weight per cubic yard (loose) |
|---|---|
| Household junk & furniture | 275 lb |
| Mixed remodel / construction debris | 417 lb |
| Drywall (gypsum board) | 467 lb |
| Wood & lumber | 169 lb |
| Carpet | 147 lb |
| Appliances (no refrigerant) | 145 lb |
| Yard waste, brush & branches | 250 lb |
| Roofing shingles | 731 lb |
| Concrete, brick & block (broken) | 860 lb |
| Dirt & sand | 929 lb |
| Rock & gravel | 999 lb |
It's an estimate: real loads vary with how tightly you pack and how wet the debris is. Each company sets its own sizes and weight limits.
Questions
How do I estimate how much debris I have?
Think in pickup-truck loads: picture how many full pickup beds your junk would fill. A 10-yard dumpster holds about four (Fixr: dumpster rental cost (updated January 2025)).
Why does weight matter if it fits?
Prices include a weight allowance, and anything over it is charged per ton: Fixr lists about $40–$100 per extra ton (Fixr: dumpster rental cost (updated January 2025)). Heavy debris like concrete, dirt and shingles hits the weight limit long before the dumpster is full.
What size dumpster do I need for a whole house cleanout?
Often a 20 or 30-yard, depending on how much furniture and stored junk there is. Enter your best guess in pickup loads above for a quick estimate.