How To Load a Dumpster for Your Next Project

Whether you need a dumpster for construction clean-up or recycling purposes, it’s important to understand how to properly load a dumpster. Failing to load a dumpster effectively can make the loading process more difficult, increase time, and affect safety. Not forgetting to mention, poor loading measures can lead to extra unnecessary charges added to your project. For this reason, we’re going to provide a few tips on how you can efficiently load a dumpster for your next project.

How to Load a Dumpster?

Most people believe that loading a dumpster is no different from loading their garbage at home. While it is the same in a lot of ways, there are specific rules that are best to follow to help you maximize your dumpster rental investment. Here are 5 tips to help you load a dumpster for your project.

1. Break Things Down

One of the first things that you should do to maximize space in your dumpster is to break down items that are large and bulky. You might want to get done quickly, but this extra step is certainly worth it. It’s best to break down things like large empty boxes, shelving, dressers, and bookcases. These types of items can take up a significant amount of space in the dumpster and limit the number of items you are able to load in the dumpster.

2. Add Bulkier Items at the Bottom

It’s a given that everything you throw away will vary in size and weight. But this doesn’t mean that you should throw away everything without order. Take inventory of your bulkier items and ensure that those items enter the garbage first. Essentially, you want bulky items to line the bottom of the dumpster and then filling in with smaller items.

3. Fill in Gaps

Another way to maximize your dumpster space is by filling in gaps. Too often, people lose out on this opportunity because they’re moving too quickly. However, it’s an efficient way to ensure you meet your dumping goals. For every layer of items that you’ve placed in the dumpster, take the time to examine the area and see if there are any spaces that can be filled with smaller items.

4. Distribute Weight Evenly

Another important tip when loading a dumpster is to distribute weight evenly. The last thing you want is for the dumpster to start shifting during transit. This can lead to a dangerous situation for everyone involved. Be sure that all items are balanced in the dumpster starting from the bottom. Avoid filling up one end of the dumpster to the top before starting the other side. This will result in your pile collapsing and will ultimately lead to an unbalanced mess. A balanced dumpster throughout improves the loading experience and ensures that everything can be transported safely.

5. Don’t Load to High

Loading the dumpster too high is a common mistake that many people make. But this can be a hazard as loose items can fly out during transportation. Along with this, you will likely incur an additional charge for overfill. If you feel like you can’t avoid overfilling, refer back to previous tips to help you stay at the ideal loading height. Things like breaking down boxes, filling in gaps, and distributing weight evenly can all help you maximize your dumpster space and help you avoid loading the dumpster too high. If you have a project you’re working on, a dumpster is an excellent way to haul items. But it’s important to always follow the best loading practices, which will ensure your items are loaded and transported safely — and that you don’t incur any extra costs. If you are interested in construction clean-up or recycling solutions, contact us to learn how we can help.