What Size Dumpster Do I Need? 14-Yard vs 20-Yard Guide
When you’re staring down a major home project, the last thing you want to worry about is running out of space for your debris. One of the most common questions we hear at Big Walnut Dumpster Rentals is: “What size dumpster do I actually need for a cleanout or renovation?”
Choosing the right roll-off container saves you money and keeps your driveway clear. In Columbus, Ohio and the surrounding Central Ohio area, we offer two versatile sizes: the 14-yard and the 20-yard roll-off. Here’s how to pick the right fit for your next project.
The 14-Yard Dumpster: Perfect for Residential Cleanouts
Our 14-yard roll-off holds roughly 80–100 contractor-sized trash bags — about four and a half standard pickup truck loads. It fits easily in most residential driveways without blocking access, making it the go-to choice for homeowners who need a fast, efficient solution.
Best for:
- Single-room renovations (bathroom updates, kitchen refreshes)
- Spring garage or basement cleanouts
- Removing old furniture, mattresses, or appliances
- Medium-sized landscaping and yard waste projects
- Siding or exterior material removal
14-Yard Pricing:
- 1 day: $250 + tax
- Up to 3 days: $300 + tax
- Up to 7 days: $350 + tax
Includes 1.5 tons (3,000 lbs) of debris. Additional weight is charged at $100 per ton ($0.05 per lb) over the limit. What you see is what you get — no surprise fees at pickup.
The 20-Yard Dumpster: Built for Bigger Projects
If you’re tackling a whole-home purge, a large renovation, or an estate cleanout, the 20-yard roll-off gives you the extra capacity to get it done in one trip. It holds roughly 110–130 contractor bags — about six full pickup truck loads. The footprint is still manageable for most Central Ohio driveways.
Best for:
- Multi-room interior renovations
- Estate cleanouts or whole-home moving purges
- Large deck removals or storm debris cleanup
- Extensive landscaping or large-scale yard projects
- Construction and contractor debris
20-Yard Pricing:
- 1 day: $350 + tax
- Up to 3 days: $375 + tax
- Up to 7 days: $425 + tax
Includes 1.5 tons (3,000 lbs) of debris. Same overage rate applies — $100 per ton over the limit. Maximum volume for a minimal price jump over the 14-yard.
What Happens If I Pick the Wrong Size?
Picking too small is the most common mistake. If your 14-yard fills up mid-project, you’ll need a second delivery — which means a second rental fee and more time waiting. If you’re even slightly on the fence, sizing up to the 20-yard almost always saves money in the long run.
Picking too large is rarely a problem. You won’t be penalized for not filling the container, and the price difference between the 14 and 20-yard is small enough that the peace of mind is worth it for bigger projects.
Quick rule of thumb:
- One room or one weekend project → 14-yard
- Multiple rooms, full home cleanout, or large debris → 20-yard
- Not sure → call us at (614) 301-0036 and we’ll help you decide in two minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
How much weight is included in the rental? Both the 14-yard and 20-yard dumpsters include 1.5 tons (3,000 lbs) of debris in the base rental price. If your load exceeds that, additional weight is billed at $100 per ton — or $0.05 per pound — over the limit. Dense materials like concrete, tile, and dirt add up fast, so keep that in mind if your project involves heavy demolition debris.
What items are not allowed in the dumpster? We don’t accept hazardous materials, liquids, or certain appliances without an additional fee. Refrigerators and freezers require an additional $50 per appliance due to refrigerant disposal requirements. Yard waste such as branches and grass clippings must be placed in their own dedicated dumpster — they cannot be mixed with other debris.
Please review our full Terms and Conditions before booking to avoid any unexpected charges.
Can I extend my rental if I need more time? Yes — extended rentals are available at $25 per day beyond your original rental period. To avoid any issues, submit your extension request in writing at least 48 hours before your rental period ends.
Do you offer same-day dumpster delivery? We do offer same-day and emergency rentals when availability allows. We can’t guarantee same-day availability, and additional fees may apply for requests outside our normal business hours of Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm EST. Contact us or call (614) 301-0036 and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
Where do you deliver in Central Ohio? We serve Columbus, Westerville, Sunbury, Galena, Delaware County, and the surrounding Central Ohio area. Not sure if we deliver to your area? Give us a call and we’ll confirm.
Can I put the dumpster on the street? In most cases, dumpsters are placed in driveways to avoid permit requirements. If you need street placement, check with your local municipality about permit requirements before booking — rules vary by city and neighborhood.
Ready to Book Your Dumpster?
Still have questions about which size is right for your project? We’re happy to help. Call us at (614) 301-0036, fill out our contact form, or book directly online: