What a First Time Residential Client Needs to Know About Renting a Dumpster

What a First Time Residential Client Needs to Know About Renting a Dumpster

As a first-time renter of a roll-off dumpster, there are several important things to keep in mind. Some may be a little obvious, but are essential knowledge to renting a dumpster.

Time

In order to get the most out of your dumpster, it is important to know your timeline. Ask yourself the questions; how big is my project? Do I need it for a day, or is it a long-term project? Think about w hat time of day you would like the dumpster dropped off and when you will be available to be at the location to sign the paperwork. You should call to schedule the dumpster as soon as possible to ensure that you will get it when and where you need it, especially during the high demand times of the year.

Renting the Appropriate Size

Choosing the wrong size dumpster for your project can result in extra costs. Getting a huge dumpster may not be as beneficial to you as getting a medium or small, just as getting a small or medium dumpster may not be beneficial as getting a large one.   One way to prevent the wrong size is to look at your project. Is it your whole house, or is it a room or two? It depends mostly on your junk pile.

Be sure when you are filling your dumpster, be aware of the fill line. Do not let your trash go over the brim of the dumpster. This could be a big hazard in a couple of ways. The biggest reason is for the dumpster truck driver. When picking up your trash, the truck driver needs to be able to transport the garbage without it flying into the streets. The majority of the time, the drivers need to be able to cover the dumpster. Another reason is for your safety. Having the dumpsters over filled, could cause an avalanche of trash, and could fall on who ever is near it.

Dumpster Safety

There is no need to be uneducated on how to use a dumpster properly. There are a few important things to think about like: What is allowed in the dumpster? Is the dumpster in a safe place? Are there other objects blocking the dumpster? Is the dumpster being used solely for your project, or are other people sneaking trash into your dumpster?

It is a good idea to make sure that the dumpster is in good standards once it is in your hands. It is up to the client to make sure specifics are taken care of once it is on your property and the rental papers and rules have been signed. A great way to prevent any dangerous situations is to have your dumpster locked and watched so unwanted visitors can’t put anything hazardous or anything that could cause you extra fees into the dumpster. Some clients like to hang a temporary sign on or near the dumpster stating, “private use” or “do not use.” If you are allowing others to use the dumpster, place a sign with a list of what can or cannot go in the dumpster.

Make sure that the dumpster is in a good location for your workspace. Make sure that the dumpster is not to close to any building or wall. It is important that the dumpster trucks have enough space to remove and drop off the dumpster without causing damage to any property. Keeping the dumpster away from extreme heat or exhaust is super important! Sometimes mistakes are made when putting items into a dumpster. Having the dumpster close to something hot and having items in the dumpster that are flammable can cause a huge disaster and may cause an explosion or dumpster fire. Items around a dumpster could be hazardous as well. It could be just as hazardous as if it were in the dumpster. Make sure items are not flammable or cause a blockage to the path and from the dumpster.

Keeping Away the Unwanted

If you are using the dumpster for a small business or using it in a difficult neighborhood, you may want to consider keeping the area lit up. This can prevent animals and un-wanted people from using the area from other than its purpose.  Keep the area visible and lit up. Having no trespassing signs or warning signs can help keep unwanted people away. Watch out for dumpster divers! Although most don’t mean any harm, if they get hurt in the dumpster, it is a liability and could cause trouble. Most dumpsters have locks, locks are a great way to make it difficult for easy access. When the dumpster is not in use, you can use a tarp to cover the top to prevent unwanted fly-a-way trash.

Weight Distribution Throughout the Dumpster

When loading the dumpster, keep the weight of the objects as even as possible. This will help the truck driver tremendously when picking up the dumpster. It helps them drive safer on the road and they will not have to worry about swaying side to side on the road to keep the weight even. Having heavy objects can make the driver have to overcompensate for the weight on the road. Try to keep lighter objects underneath the heavier objects. Having the lighter objects like paper or cardboard on top will fly away in the streets when it is time for the driver to pick up the dumpster.