Which is Better? A Dump Trailer Rental or a Dumpster Rental?

  • Taylor Chastain
  • September 20, 2023

As is the case with many things, it depends. There are a number of factors that play into the best bulk trash container for your project. Dumpsters are a tried and true method of bulk trash disposal, but the newer dump trailers have a huge list of upsides as well! Most people do not have the time to take the time to learn the details about dumpsters and dump trailers, but we can give you all the details you need to know. Let’s get into the nitty gritty.

Dump Trailer Pros

Driveway Safe

The top benefit of dump trailers is that they use regular rubber tires. The biggest advantage that rubber tires offer is that they will not scrape or destroy concrete surfaces.

Able to Sit on Numerous Types of Surfaces

Additionally, due to the fact that dump trailers use regular rubber tires, dump trailers can be set on various kinds of surfaces. This means that instead of being relegated to a concrete or gravel surface, dump trailers can be placed on any surface including dirt, grass, and mulch without getting bogged down.

Less Likely to Accumulate Neighbors Garbage

Often when a dumpster is placed somewhere, it will accumulate other garbage from neighbors or passersby. When a dump trailer is left on someones driveway, it appears to neighbors and passersby like personal property which makes them less likely to illegally dump their own trash into the dump trailer.

More HOA Friendly

For the same reason listed above, dump trailers are more HOA friendly. They fit nicely in the space taken up by your average SUV and are generally better looking than a dumpster. They seem to fit more cleanly into the landscape of a modern suburban neighborhood. Dump trailers can also be picked up in a much more timely manner. More on that later.

Generally More Flexible Scheduling

Most dump trailer rental companies offer same day, next day, and week-long rental options. This allows clients options to have their dump trailer picked up on their time frame. Dumpsters are often left on site for 5-7 days without much flexibility. Dump trailers are a great option for the weekend warrior who does not want a container on their property any longer than 2 days.

Dump Trailer Cons

Height Difference

When it comes to the down sides of dump trailers, the height difference is the biggest one. Dump trailers typically sit 18-30 inches off of the ground. This means that people loading the trailers must be able to lift the garbage items into the container, whereas most dumpsters sit on the ground and are easier to access.

Rubber Tires Prone to Nail Holes

For commercial or construction applications it is important to be aware that rubber tires are prone to nail holes in the tires. While it is relatively rare, it is good to be aware of the fact that a poorly tossed board with nails in it can damage a dump trailer tire.

Less Sizes Available

Dump trailers also come in less sizes than regular dumpsters. Dump trailers are normally available in 10, 12, and 15 cubic yard sizes. (A cubic yard is roughly the size of a washing machine). Regular dumpsters are available in sizes ranging from 10-40 cubic yards.

WATCH: Dump trailer in Action

Dumpster Pros:

Extended Loading Time

The best thing about dumpsters is that they can be left on a job-site for an extended period of time. Most dumpster companies have a one or two week standard on-site time. Extended time can be granted depending on the clients need. Often any time over one or two weeks will have a small extra fee attached.

Easier for Machine Loading

Dumpsters sit lower to the ground and generally have more sturdy construction. These two factors make it the ideal container for repeated or excessive machine loading. When demolishing a building or doing landscaping with a machine, a dumpster may be a great option.

Lower to the Ground

As mentioned above, dumpsters sit much lower to the ground than dump trailers. This means that it is easier to load a dumpster by hand or with a hand truck. Additionally, it is sometimes nice to load a dumpster by walking in the large open door with a small step instead of lifting into a trailer.

More Durable for Concrete, Stone, Etc…

Most dumpsters are made with slightly more durable construction materials making them the perfect candidate for concrete, dirt, stone, and other various heavy or particularly abrasive materials.

Dumpster Cons:

“Free Mattress Disposal”

I call this the “free mattress disposal” effect. Whenever there is a dumpster on a property, neighbors or passersby just see a receptacle for whatever unwanted items they have, most notably, mattresses. This happens because dumpsters appear to not ‘belong’ to anyone, so deviants feel like they are not hurting anyone with their illegal dumping.

Extra Fees and Rules

Often dumpster companies have all kinds of rules and restrictions on what can go inside of their containers. They also have limits on weights with sometimes confusing weight overage charges. Be cautious of extra charges when ordering a dumpster.

Unsightly

Dumpsters are ugly. Plain and simple.

Can be Left on Site for Extended Periods of Time

Dumpster companies normally offer their containers for a minimum of a week. This means that if you want a dumpster in and out in less time you may have to make a special request. Occasionally regardless of requests, dumpster companies may leave a container on a property until it is convenient for the company to come get it.

Can Damage Driveway

The biggest issue with dumpsters is that their metal wheels can seriously damage concrete and asphalt. The wheels or rails may dig into the concrete causing serious gashes. This can be mitigated by putting wood between the dumpster and the ground, but not all companies offer this service.

Summary:

In total there are many factors to consider when choosing the best container for bulk garbage. Dumpsters and dump trailers both have their place in the bulk garbage economy. At Up Up and Away, we understand the unique value of both dumpsters and dump trailers. While we offer dump trailer rentals, we also use dumpsters on our larger demolition projects. We are always glad to advise our clients on how to make the best decision to Defeat Junk Today!

Junk removal business in Metro Atlanta.

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