Renting a small roll-off dumpster can simplify waste disposal for your home renovation, cleanout, or other projects, but it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to additional fees, delays, or unnecessary stress. Thorne Ridge Sanitation is here to help guide you through the process of renting a dumpster in Plattsburgh, NY, and to ensure that your project runs smoothly.

In this article, we’ll highlight the most common mistakes people make when renting small roll-off dumpsters and provide tips on how to avoid them.

1. Renting a Dumpster That’s Too Small or Too Large

One of the most common mistakes when renting a Small Roll Off Dumpster Rental is choosing the wrong size. If the dumpster is too small for your project, you might end up needing to rent another dumpster or make multiple trips to dispose of your waste, which will cost you more in time and money. On the other hand, if you choose a dumpster that's too large, you may end up paying for space you don't need.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Before renting a dumpster, take a moment to estimate how much waste you’ll generate. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right size:

• 10-yard dumpster: Best for smaller projects like garage cleanouts, small renovations, or yard debris.

• 15-yard dumpster: Ideal for medium-sized renovations, large cleanouts, or smaller construction projects.

• 20-yard dumpster: Suitable for larger renovations, roofing jobs, or small construction and demolition projects.

If you're unsure about the right size, don’t hesitate to ask Thorne Ridge Sanitation for advice. We can help you select the dumpster that best fits your needs.

2. Overloading the Dumpster

Overloading a dumpster is a serious mistake. Dumpsters have weight limits and fill lines to ensure that the container is safe to transport. If you exceed these limits, you may face additional fees or delays, as the dumpster may not be able to be hauled away safely.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Be sure to fill your dumpster evenly and to the fill line. Avoid placing large, heavy items on top of the dumpster, and don’t stack materials above the sides. If you're unsure whether your dumpster is overfilled, check the height of the debris in relation to the dumpster’s sides.

At Thorne Ridge Sanitation, we make sure to explain the fill line and weight limits to ensure that you stay within the safe capacity. Follow these guidelines to avoid unnecessary charges.

3. Failing to Separate Prohibited Items

Certain materials, such as hazardous waste, cannot be placed in a roll-off dumpster. These prohibited items may include:

• Paint, solvents, or chemicals

• Asbestos

• Batteries or electronics

• Tires

• Flammable materials

• Medical waste

Placing prohibited items in the dumpster can result in fines, delays, or the refusal to pick up the dumpster. It's crucial to ensure that you don't accidentally dispose of materials that require special handling.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Before you start filling the dumpster, check with Thorne Ridge Sanitation about what is allowed and what is not. We’ll provide a list of items that can’t be disposed of in a Small Roll Off Dumpster Rental, so you’ll know what to avoid.

If you have prohibited items, make arrangements to dispose of them properly at a designated facility, such as a recycling center or hazardous waste disposal site.

4. Not Planning for Placement or Accessibility

Another mistake people often make is failing to plan the dumpster’s placement and accessibility. It’s essential to have a clear and accessible area where the dumpster can be placed, ensuring that the delivery truck can reach it without difficulty.

If the location isn’t suitable for a dumpster, it may result in additional delivery fees, delays, or even the need to find a new location. In some cases, placing a dumpster on public property or the street may require a permit.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Before renting a dumpster, check the area where you plan to have it delivered. Ensure it’s easily accessible for the delivery truck and has a flat, stable surface (like a driveway or paved area). Avoid placing the dumpster on soft ground, grass, or uneven surfaces, as it may damage your lawn or property.

If you plan to place the dumpster on the street or public property, check with local authorities about any permits or regulations required. Thorne Ridge Sanitation can help guide you through the permitting process if needed.

5. Forgetting to Consider the Weight of the Waste

While choosing the right dumpster size is important, it's equally important to consider the weight of the materials you're disposing of. Many people make the mistake of not factoring in the weight of the waste, which can result in additional charges. Heavier materials like concrete, dirt, or brick are much denser and heavier than typical household waste.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

When renting a dumpster, be mindful of the weight limits specified by Thorne Ridge Sanitation. If you plan to dispose of heavy materials, consider renting a larger dumpster to accommodate the added weight. If you’re unsure about the weight of your debris, don’t hesitate to ask for guidance from our team.

We’ll help you select the right size dumpster to ensure that you stay within the weight limits and avoid any unexpected charges.

6. Not Scheduling Enough Time for the Rental Period

Another common mistake is not scheduling enough time for your dumpster rental. Some people underestimate how long a project will take, leaving them with a full dumpster but no time left to dispose of all their waste.

If you need the dumpster for more than the original rental period, you may be charged for extra days or a late pickup.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Estimate the duration of your project as accurately as possible when scheduling the dumpster rental. If you’re unsure, it’s better to schedule a few extra days just in case. Thorne Ridge Sanitation offers flexible rental periods, so you can adjust your rental duration if necessary.

Be proactive and contact us ahead of time if you need more time with your dumpster to avoid late fees.

7. Not Considering Local Regulations or Permits

In some cases, you may need a permit to place a dumpster on public property or the street. If you’re planning to place the dumpster in a location that is not on private property, such as a public sidewalk or street, you may need to obtain a permit from the local authorities.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Check with the City of Plattsburgh or your local government to find out if a permit is required for your dumpster placement. Thorne Ridge Sanitation can assist you in understanding any local regulations and help you with the permit process if necessary.

8. Not Keeping the Area Around the Dumpster Clear

Once the dumpster is on-site, it's important to keep the area around it clear of debris, vehicles, or other obstacles that may prevent access for pickup. If the dumpster is blocked when it's time for pickup, it can lead to delays or extra charges.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

Before and during your project, make sure to keep the area around the dumpster clear so the pickup truck can easily access it. This will help ensure timely pickup and avoid any additional fees for delays or difficult access.

9. Ignoring the Environmental Impact

Disposing of waste responsibly is critical for the environment, but not all dumpsters are handled the same way. Some companies may not prioritize recycling or eco-friendly waste management.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

At Thorne Ridge Sanitation, we prioritize environmentally responsible disposal methods. We aim to recycle as much material as possible, ensuring that your waste is disposed of in a sustainable way. When renting a dumpster, consider working with a company that shares your commitment to responsible waste disposal.

Conclusion

Renting a small roll-off dumpster can be a convenient and cost-effective solution for your waste disposal needs, but it's essential to avoid common mistakes to ensure a smooth process. By choosing the right size, planning for placement, staying within weight limits, and following local regulations, you can avoid unnecessary charges and delays.

Thorne Ridge Sanitation is here to help make your dumpster rental experience as seamless and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to get started on your next project and avoid the common mistakes that can derail your waste disposal efforts.