What is a 40-Yard Dumpsters and When Should You Rent One?

If you’re working on a big project—like remodeling a home, cleaning a business space, or building something new—you’ll probably have a lot of trash to throw away. A 40-yard dumpster might be the best tool to help you get rid of all that waste. But what exactly is it? And when should you rent one?

Let’s break it down in easy terms.

What Is a 40-Yard Dumpster?

A 40-yard dumpster is one of the largest types of dumpsters you can rent. The “40-yard” part means it can hold 40 cubic yards of waste. That’s about 12 pickup truck loads of trash!

Size Breakdown:

• Length: About 22 feet (like a small school bus)

• Width: 8 feet

• Height: 8 feet
  These sizes may change a little depending on the rental company.

This dumpster is made for large jobs where there’s a lot of junk, like wood, furniture, or yard waste.

When Should You Rent a 40-Yard Dumpster?

Here are the most common times people rent a 40-yard dumpster:

1. Large Home Renovations

If you’re remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, tearing down walls, or changing the layout of your home, you’ll have lots of debris.

Why rent? You can throw out everything—old cabinets, drywall, tiles, and more—in one container.

2. Construction or Demolition Projects

Building a new home? Tearing down an old one? This type of work creates heavy and bulky waste.

Why rent? A 40-yard dumpster can hold things like wood, concrete, and metal without filling up too fast.

3. Commercial Cleanouts

Are you cleaning out an office or a warehouse?

Why rent? You can toss old furniture, boxes, equipment, and clutter all at once instead of making multiple trips.

4. Estate Cleanouts

Clearing out a home after a move or a loved one’s passing?

Why rent? You can easily throw away furniture, appliances, clothes, and household items.

5. Large Landscaping Jobs

If you’re removing trees, tearing up lawns, or moving large amounts of soil…

Why rent? Smaller bins fill up fast. A 40-yard dumpster gives you more space for things like dirt, sod, and branches.

What Can You Put in a 40-Yard Dumpster?

You can throw away many things, but some items are not allowed. Always check with your dumpster rental company first.

Accepted Waste:

• Wood, drywall, and roofing materials

• Furniture (couches, tables, chairs)

• Appliances (without hazardous parts)

• Yard waste (branches, leaves, soil)

• General junk from home cleanups

Not Accepted:

• Paint, chemicals, asbestos

• Electronics (TVs, computers, monitors)

• Tires and batteries

• Refrigerators with Freon

Some companies offer special removal for items not allowed in regular dumpsters.

How Much Does It Cost to Rent a 40-Yard Dumpster?

The cost can vary depending on:

• Your location (dumping fees and travel distance)

• How long you need it (most rentals are 7–10 days)

• What you’re throwing away (heavy or special items may cost more)

• Pickup and delivery fees

You can usually get a free quote by calling a dumpster rental company.

How to Choose the Right Dumpster Size?

Not sure if 40 yards is too big or too small? Use this simple guide: