Debris and haul-off estimator

Dumpster Size Calculator

Estimate loose debris yardage and a suggested roll-off dumpster size from debris pile dimensions, depth, and bulking factor.

Units

Debris length (ft)Debris width (ft)Average depth (ft)Bulking factor Rough cost per yard ($)

Suggested dumpster

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Loose debris volume

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Measured volume

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Estimated cost

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Dumpster limits are not only volume

Weight limits, prohibited materials, fill-line rules, access, swap-outs, local hauler sizes, and heavy debris like concrete or dirt can require a smaller or different container.

Android App

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Dumpster size formula

Measured yd³ = length × width × depth ÷ 27

Loose yd³ = measured yd³ × bulking factor

Suggested size = next common 10, 15, 20, 30, or 40 yd dumpster

Example

A 12 ft by 8 ft by 4 ft debris pile is 14.2 bank yd³. With a 1.25 bulking factor, plan about 17.8 loose yd³, so a 20 yd dumpster is the first fit.A 3.6 m by 2.4 m by 1.2 m debris pile is 10.4 measured m³. With a 1.25 bulking factor, plan about 13.0 loose m³, so a 15 m³ container is the first fit.

Dumpster Size Calculator FAQ

How does this dumpster size calculator work?+

It multiplies measured job dimensions by the coverage, spacing, or package yield you enter, adds waste, then rounds the buy quantity up. Volume only chooses a first-fit size. Weight limits and hauler rules still matter.It multiplies measured job dimensions by the coverage, spacing, or package yield you enter, adds waste, then rounds the buy quantity up. Volume only chooses a first-fit size. Weight limits and hauler rules still matter.

Should I use the default waste value?+

Use the default for a quick planning estimate, then raise it for cuts, odd layouts, breakage, bad access, or product-specific loss.Use the default for a quick planning estimate, then raise it for cuts, odd layouts, breakage, bad access, or product-specific loss.

Is this a bid or code approval?+

No. It is a material planning calculator. Verify product data, local code, structural requirements, electrical requirements, and supplier packaging before ordering or building.No. It is a material planning calculator. Verify product data, local code, structural requirements, electrical requirements, and supplier packaging before ordering or building.