What Size Dumpster Do I Need? The Complete Roll-Off Sizing Guide
Ordering the wrong size dumpster is the most common mistake Arizona homeowners make—and it's completely avoidable. Choose too small and you're stuck paying for a second container or making trips to the dump. Choose too large and you're wasting money on capacity you don't need. This comprehensive sizing guide from Devil Dog Services takes the guesswork out of dumpster selection, helping Phoenix Metro homeowners match the right roll-off container to their specific project.
Whether you're cleaning out a packed garage in Mesa, gutting a kitchen in Chandler, clearing storm debris in Gilbert, or managing an estate cleanout in Scottsdale, understanding dumpster dimensions and capacity ensures your project runs smoothly from start to finish. We'll walk you through each size option, show you what fits in each container, and help you estimate your debris volume like a pro.
Understanding Dumpster Size Measurements
Dumpster sizes are measured in cubic yards, which represents the total volume of debris the container can hold. One cubic yard equals 27 cubic feet—roughly the size of a standard kitchen stove. When we say "20-yard dumpster," we mean the container holds 20 cubic yards of material.
But cubic yards can feel abstract when you're staring at a garage full of stuff. That's why we also measure capacity in pickup truck loads, which gives most homeowners a more practical reference point. A standard full-size pickup truck bed holds approximately 2-3 cubic yards of debris, depending on how high you stack it.
Understanding both measurements helps you visualize exactly how much waste each container accommodates and select the right size for your Arizona project.
Devil Dog Services Dumpster Sizes
We offer three roll-off container sizes designed to handle everything from weekend cleanouts to major construction projects across the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.
- Dimensions: 14'L x 8'W x 4'H
- Capacity: 14 cubic yards
- Weight Included: 1.5 tons (3,000 lbs)
- Pickup Truck Equivalent: Approximately 5 loads
- Rental Period: 7 days standard
The 14-yard roll-off is our most compact container, designed to fit comfortably in most Arizona driveways without blocking sidewalks or extending into the street. The 4-foot height makes loading easy—you won't need a ladder or struggle to lift heavy items over tall walls. This size works perfectly for homeowners tackling moderate cleanout projects or small renovations.
Best for:
- Single-car garage cleanouts
- Small bathroom remodels
- Deck or patio removal
- Minor landscaping projects
- Attic or basement decluttering
- Single-room flooring replacement
- Dimensions: 14'L x 8'W x 6'H
- Capacity: 20 cubic yards
- Weight Included: 2 tons (4,000 lbs)
- Pickup Truck Equivalent: Approximately 8 loads
- Rental Period:
7 days standard
The 20-yard dumpster is our most popular size—and for good reason. It maintains the same driveway-friendly footprint as the 14-yard while adding 2 feet of height for significantly more capacity. This versatile mid-size container handles the majority of residential projects across Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Phoenix neighborhoods.
Best for:
- Two-car garage cleanouts
- Kitchen remodels
- Roof replacements (single-story homes)
- Whole-house decluttering
- Estate cleanouts
- Multiple room renovations
- Large landscaping projects
- Dimensions: 20'L x 8'W x 6'H
- Capacity: 30 cubic yards
- Weight Included: 3 tons (6,000 lbs)
- Pickup Truck Equivalent: Approximately 12 loads
- Rental Period:
7 days standard
When your project demands maximum debris capacity, the 30-yard delivers. This large-format container handles the biggest residential undertakings—whole-house renovations, major construction, multi-story cleanouts, and large-scale property clearing. The extended 20-foot length requires more driveway space, so confirm your placement area before ordering.
Best for:
- Whole-house renovations
- Large roof replacements
- Major construction projects
- Multi-story estate cleanouts
- Storm damage cleanup
- Complete property clearing
- New construction debris
Dumpster Size by Project Type
Not sure which container fits your specific situation? Use this project-based guide to match common Arizona home projects with the appropriate dumpster size.
Garage Cleanout Dumpster Size
The question we hear most often from Phoenix Metro homeowners: "What size dumpster do I need to clean out my garage?" The answer depends on your garage size and accumulation level.
- Single-car garage (light to moderate clutter): 14-yard dumpster
- Single-car garage (packed full): 20-yard dumpster
- Two-car garage (moderate clutter): 20-yard dumpster
- Two-car garage (packed full): 30-yard dumpster
- Three-car garage or garage plus storage areas: 30-yard dumpster
Arizona garages tend to accumulate more than those in other states because we lack basements for overflow storage. If your garage hasn't been cleaned in years, lean toward the larger size.
Home Renovation Dumpster Size
Renovation projects generate debris at every phase—demolition creates the biggest surge, followed by steady waste throughout construction and finishing work.
- Bathroom remodel (single): 14-yard dumpster
- Bathroom remodel (multiple): 20-yard dumpster
- Kitchen remodel: 20-yard dumpster
- Kitchen remodel (down to studs): 30-yard dumpster
- Single room addition: 20-yard dumpster
- Multiple room renovation: 30-yard dumpster
- Whole-house remodel: 30-yard dumpster (may need swap-out)
Roofing Project Dumpster Size
Roofing materials are heavy—shingles, underlayment, and damaged decking add up quickly in both volume and weight. Arizona homes with flat roofs or tile may have different requirements than standard shingle roofs.
- Single-story shingle roof (under 1,500 sq ft): 20-yard dumpster
- Single-story shingle roof (1,500-2,500 sq ft): 20-yard dumpster
- Two-story shingle roof: 30-yard dumpster
- Tile roof replacement: Contact us for weight considerations
- Flat roof with multiple layers: 30-yard dumpster
Remember: roofing debris is dense. You may hit weight limits before filling the container completely.
Estate Cleanout Dumpster Size
Clearing a deceased loved one's home or helping aging parents downsize involves sorting through decades of accumulated possessions. Estate cleanouts are emotionally challenging, and running out of dumpster space adds unnecessary stress.
- Small home or condo (under 1,200 sq ft): 20-yard dumpster
- Average home (1,200-2,000 sq ft): 20 to 30-yard dumpster
- Large home (2,000-3,000 sq ft): 30-yard dumpster
- Estate with outbuildings or packed storage: 30-yard (may need multiple)
For estate cleanouts, we typically recommend sizing up. The modest cost difference provides peace of mind and lets you work without constantly worrying about space.
Yard Waste and Landscaping Dumpster Size
Arizona landscaping projects generate significant debris, especially when removing mature desert plants, clearing overgrown yards, or redesigning outdoor spaces.
- Seasonal yard cleanup: 14-yard dumpster
- Tree trimming and palm frond removal: 14 to 20-yard dumpster
- Complete landscape redesign: 20-yard dumpster
- Land clearing or major tree removal: 30-yard dumpster
- Storm debris cleanup: 20 to 30-yard dumpster
Yard waste is typically lightweight but bulky. You'll likely fill the container by volume before approaching weight limits.
Furniture Disposal Dumpster Size
Whether you're replacing furniture throughout your home, clearing a rental property, or disposing of items after a move, understanding how furniture fills a dumpster helps you choose correctly.
- A few large furniture pieces: 14-yard dumpster
- Single room of furniture: 14-yard dumpster
- Multiple rooms of furniture: 20-yard dumpster
- Whole-house furniture disposal: 20 to 30-yard dumpster
A standard couch or sectional fits comfortably in any of our containers. If you're disposing of multiple couches, bedroom sets, and dining furniture, the 20-yard or 30-yard ensures adequate space.
Flooring Removal Dumpster Size
Carpet, tile, hardwood, and laminate removal generates more waste than most homeowners expect, especially when underlayment and subflooring require replacement.
- Single room (carpet): 14-yard dumpster
- Single room (tile or hardwood): 14-yard dumpster
- Multiple rooms (carpet): 20-yard dumpster
- Multiple rooms (tile): 20-yard dumpster
- Whole-house flooring: 30-yard dumpster
Tile and hardwood are heavier than carpet. Factor weight into your decision, not just volume.
How to Estimate Your Debris Volume
If your project doesn't fit neatly into the categories above, use these estimation methods to calculate your approximate debris volume.
The Room Count Method
For general cleanouts and decluttering, estimate one cubic yard of debris per room being cleared. A three-bedroom home cleanout generates roughly 15-20 cubic yards—pointing toward a 20-yard dumpster.
The Pickup Truck Method
Visualize how many pickup truck loads your debris would fill. Multiply that number by 2.5 to get approximate cubic yards.
→ 4 truck loads = ~10 cubic yards = 14-yard dumpster
→ 6-8 truck loads = ~15-20 cubic yards = 20-yard dumpster
→
10-12 truck loads = ~25-30 cubic yards = 30-yard dumpster
The Square Footage Method
For demolition and renovation debris, use these general guidelines:
→ Demolition generates approximately 1 cubic yard per 50 square feet
→ Roofing produces roughly 1 ton per 1,000 square feet
→
General renovation creates about 1 cubic yard per 100 square feet
When in Doubt, Size Up
Here's the reality: the cost difference between a 14-yard and 20-yard dumpster is minimal compared to the hassle of needing a second container. If you're debating between sizes, choosing larger provides insurance against overage fees, additional delivery charges, and project delays.
Common Dumpster Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Learning from others' mistakes saves you time, money, and frustration. These are the sizing errors we see most often from Arizona homeowners.
Underestimating Cleanout Volume
Once you start pulling items out of storage and making keep-or-toss decisions, the discard pile grows faster than expected. That garage you thought would fill half a dumpster? It often fills the whole thing—and then some.
Forgetting About Hidden Spaces
Attics, crawl spaces, storage sheds, and closets often hold forgotten items that add to your debris total. Walk through all spaces before selecting your dumpster size.
Ignoring Weight Limits
Volume isn't everything. Heavy materials like concrete, tile, roofing shingles, and dirt hit weight limits before filling the container. If your project involves dense materials, discuss weight considerations with our team.
Assuming One Size Fits All Projects
A dumpster that worked for your neighbor's project may not fit yours. Project scope, material types, and accumulation levels vary widely. Base your decision on your specific situation, not someone else's experience.
Our Waste Management Service Area
Devil Dog Services delivers roll-off containers throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. Our dumpster sizing guidance applies to projects in:
Same-day and next-day delivery available throughout our service area.
Call (602) 396-6561 to confirm availability for your location.
Dumpster Sizing FAQs
What size dumpster is rented the most?
The 20-yard dumpster is our most popular size due to its versatility. It handles the widest range of projects—from substantial garage cleanouts to kitchen remodels to estate cleanups—while still fitting in most Arizona driveways. The 20-yard hits the sweet spot between capacity and manageability.
How big of a dumpster do I need for a couch?
A standard couch or sectional fits easily in any of our dumpsters, including the 14-yard. If you're disposing of a single couch along with other furniture, the 14-yard typically provides enough space. Multiple couches or an entire room of furniture warrants a 20-yard container.
What size dumpster do I need to clean out a house?
For whole-house cleanouts, a 20-yard dumpster handles most average-sized homes (1,200-2,000 square feet). Larger homes, estates with significant accumulation, or properties with outbuildings typically require a 30-yard container. When clearing an entire house, sizing up prevents the stress of running out of space during an already difficult process.
Should I get a 20 or 30 yard dumpster?
Choose the 20-yard for medium-sized projects like kitchen remodels, roofing jobs on single-story homes, or standard garage cleanouts. Choose the 30-yard for larger renovations, whole-house cleanouts, major construction, or when multiple people are contributing debris. The 30-yard is also smart when you're uncertain—better to have extra space than to need a second container.
Will a couch fit in a 10-yard dumpster?
Devil Dog Services offers 14-yard containers as our smallest option (we don't carry 10-yard dumpsters). Our 14-yard easily accommodates couches, mattresses, and other large furniture items. The 4-foot height makes loading bulky items manageable without excessive lifting.
What can you fit in a 14-yard dumpster?
A 14-yard dumpster holds approximately 5 pickup truck loads of debris. Common loads include: single-car garage contents, one bathroom remodel worth of debris, a small deck removal, single-room flooring, or a moderate amount of yard waste. It's ideal for projects generating between 10-14 cubic yards of material.
How do I know if I'll exceed weight limits?
Heavy materials like concrete, brick, tile, roofing shingles, and dirt approach weight limits faster than volume limits. If your project involves these dense materials, contact our team before ordering. We'll help you select the right size and discuss weight considerations to avoid overage charges.
Can I put different types of debris in the same dumpster?
Yes, you can mix general debris types in the same container—furniture, construction materials, yard waste, and household items can all go together. The exceptions are hazardous materials (batteries, chemicals, paint, asbestos) and items with refrigerants (refrigerators, air conditioners), which require separate disposal.
Why Arizona Homeowners Trust Devil Dog Services
Choosing the right dumpster size is just the first step. You also need a rental company that delivers when promised, places the container where you need it, and responds quickly when questions arise.
Devil Dog Services is veteran-owned and operated, bringing military discipline and accountability to every delivery across the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. We offer transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees, guaranteed delivery windows, and same-day service when you need it fast. Our team knows Arizona neighborhoods, navigates tight driveways, and treats your property with respect.
We proudly offer a 10% military discount to active duty service members and veterans. Enter code USA at checkout.
Related Dumpster Rental Resources
Explore our complete guides for more detailed information:
Get the Right Size Dumpster for Your Arizona Project
Still not sure which size fits your needs? Call (602) 396-6561 and talk with our team. We'll ask a few questions about your project, help you estimate debris volume, and recommend the container that keeps your project running smoothly without wasting money on excess capacity.
Ready to order? Book online or call today for same-day and next-day
dumpster delivery throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.