How to Choose the Right Dumpster Size for Your Project

When you’re planning a cleanup, renovation, or moving project, one of the first decisions you’ll make is choosing the right dumpster size. The right size keeps your job running smoothly, prevents overflow, and can help you avoid paying for more space than you need.

At MetroCity Rentals, we keep things simple with three dumpster sizes that cover nearly every type of residential or light contractor project. Whether you're cleaning out a spare bedroom in Williamsburg, remodeling a kitchen in Yorktown, or preparing a rental property in Newport News, we’ll help you choose the size that fits your needs (and your driveway).

Dumpster Sizes We Offer

Dumpster SizeBest ForApprox. Capacity
13-Yard DumpsterSmaller cleanouts and light projectsAbout 3 pickup truck loads
17-Yard Dumpster (Most Popular)Garage cleanouts, flooring removal, remodel debrisAbout 4–5 pickup truck loads
21-Yard DumpsterLarge home and estate cleanouts, multi-room renovationsAbout 6 pickup truck loads

Each dumpster rental includes up to 2 tons of disposal weight.
Anything above 2 tons is billed at $80 per additional ton, based on the landfill weight ticket.

Typical Weight by Project Type

Project TypeWeight RangeRecommended Dumpster Size
Small room, attic, or closet cleanout0.5 – 1.0 tons13-yard
Garage cleanout or assorted household junk1.0 – 1.75 tons17-yard
Small kitchen or bathroom remodel1.0 – 2.0 tons17-yard
Whole-home or estate cleanout1.75 – 2.5+ tons21-yard
Roofing tear-off (typical home)1.25 – 2.25 tons17–21 yard
Yard debris such as branches and shrubs0.5 – 1.5 tons13–17 yard

Understanding the weight helps avoid unexpected overage fees. Most standard home projects stay within the 2-ton limit, but full-house cleanouts or large renovation jobs may exceed that threshold.

Accepted Materials

We accept general household items, furniture, clothing, decor, small appliances without refrigerants, wood, drywall, flooring, cabinets, trim, and yard waste such as branches and leaf bags.

We Cannot Accept

Concrete, brick, dirt, sand, gravel, rock, asphalt, paint, chemicals, or hazardous waste.
If you have questions, you can text us a picture to confirm what can go in the dumpster.


Local Service

We offer fast, friendly delivery and pickup in Williamsburg, Yorktown, Newport News, Toano, Norge, Gloucester, Seaford, Carrollton, New Kent, and nearby areas. We place dumpsters carefully in the location you choose and pick them up promptly when you're finished.

Get in touch

Not sure what size you need? Send us a message. We’ll take a quick look and get you matched with the right dumpster. Zero pressure, just real help.