Do Dumpsters Have Weight Limits?

Whether you are in Hartford or Bloomfield, Windsor or Simsbury, sometimes you need a dumpster to get the job done. Dumpster rentals are a quick and easy way to clean up any size job site without having to worry about how to get rid of trash and debris. However, you need to be sure you choose the right size dumpster to avoid running afoul of weight limits.

Do Dumpster Rentals Have Weight Limits? 

The simple answer is yes, and this isn’t just because we want you to pay more for dumpsters. In fact, there are several factors that affect the allowable weight of any given dumpster. Choosing the perfect dumpster means considering all three of these things:

Dumpster Size

The first thing we consider is the size of the dumpster. Each dumpster is designed to hold a specific amount of weight without suffering damage. While it is unlikely that a small overage will cause the dumpster to fail, it is more likely that overloading the dumpster will mean that the trash inside won’t be secure.

For roll-off dumpsters, the weight that the axles can bear safely during travel is a major concern. Overloading a roll-off can be dangerous and will result in additional charges or the need for a second dumpster rental.

Truck Size

Another consideration is the size of the truck. All trucks have a limit to how much they can safely tow, and the weight of the dumpster itself accounts for a significant portion of that. This means that the truck can only handle so much additional weight before it is over its limit.

Road Safety Regulations

Aside from the physical limitations of the trucks and dumpsters, there are also legal ramifications to overloading a dumpster. Many municipalities have road usage restrictions based on the conditions of the road and surrounding traffic and buildings. Oftentimes, these limitations will impact the maximum size of the dumpster allowable.

How to Prevent Going Over the Weight Limit

The best way to prevent going over your weight limit is to ensure you are getting the right size dumpster from the start. Dumpsters come in a wide range of sizes, each with a specified weight limit. Your dumpster rental company can provide you with an estimate of what size you need based on the type of job you are doing.

Usually, estimates are based on the type of trash you are throwing away. Construction debris tends to weigh more than household trash, so demolition and remodeling jobs require a larger dumpster than residential clean-out jobs. You may also be able to find estimates for how much each dumpster size holds in terms of filled trash bags or roofing materials to give you a better idea of what you’re looking at.

If you have a big job coming up, call Windsor Sanitation to schedule your dumpster rental today. We’d be happy to help you find the perfect size dumpster for your job so you can be sure the job site is all cleaned up without overpaying.