How To Avoid Dumpster Overage Fees

Renting a dumpster for residential jobs, on construction sites, and more, can save time, labor, and money. That is, unless dumpster overage fees rear their ugly heads. Can they be avoided?

Have you ever rented a dumpster? Are you thinking about renting one? In the end and in most cases, you can usually expect to pay what you were quoted. Unfortunately, if you’re not careful, overage fees can occur occasionally. By the weight of the materials you put inside, container prices are usually determined. If you exceed the weight allowance, or overfill it, you may be charged extra. These are known as dumpster overage fees.

You can avoid surprises, however, with careful planning so the final bill won’t be a shock you weren’t prepared for. To dodge those overage fees, we are going to offer five simple suggestions.

Review All Company Policies and Make Sure You Understand Them

When you discuss renting a dumpster, make sure you get everything in writing. There should be no surprises when it comes time to have that dumpster picked up. Read the fine print to avoid overage fees. Understand the basics:

For exceeding weight allowance, cost per ton
Actual weight allowance
Cost of the particular size dumpster you’ve chosen

Avoid Rentals That Go Long Term If Possible

Oddly enough, the longer you keep a dumpster, the heavier it tends to get! As you (or others) are walking by, it’s just too convenient to chuck things in there without thinking. It’s also more likely to collect rainwater, the longer it sits. (See below.)

Don’t Let Rain Get in the Dumpster

Water is heavy! Particularly if it storms a lot while your dumpster is placed outside, do everything you can to keep rainwater from getting into it. Here is a shocking statistic: Garbage normally weighing approximately 600 pounds, once it gets wet, can weigh in excess of 1200 pounds!

Pay Attention to What You Throw in Your Waste Bin (Dumpster)

Before you start shoving everything under the sun into that dumpster, remember that exceedingly heavy objects could result in extra fees because of excess weight. Before tossing it in your bin, carefully consider each piece. Think about donating, selling, or recycling as many materials as you can. Additionally, your container may not be appropriate for items such as electronics, paint, and other materials.

Choose a Dumpster That Is the Right Size

The size dumpster you need should appropriately meet your specific requirements. A rental company that is customer focused will help you determine the correct size for your project. Don’t think you’re going to save money by renting a smaller dumpster. In the long run, you might end up paying more because a bigger container would’ve been better.

In fact, a good rule of thumb is to pick a dumpster that’s bigger than the one you think you’ll need. If you’re working with contractors, they’ll love the flexibility that a larger waste bin gives them. Even for doing a simple remodeling project or cleaning out the garage, bigger could be better.

Avoid Surprises by Renting Your Dumpster from Cheap Disposal, LLC

At Cheap Disposal, LLC, we don’t believe in hidden charges. All container rentals include waste removal services, drop-off, and pick up. For period of up to 14 days, you can rent one of our dumpsters. We have customer service representatives who are highly trained and able to help you decide exactly the right fit when it comes to dumpster size. Tell them what your project is and they’ll assist you in any way they can.