How to Choose the Right Dumpster Size for Your Next Project in West Michigan
When you’ve got a project—whether it’s a fall yard cleanup in East Grand Rapids or a garage cleanout in Wyoming, MI—the last thing you want is the wrong size dumpster parked in your driveway. Too small, and you’re stuck calling for another haul. Too big, and you’ve paid for empty space you don’t need.
At Neighborly Hauling, we believe in “The Right Dumpster for the Right Job.” Here’s a simple guide to help homeowners, renters, and DIYers across Grand Rapids and Kent County find the perfect fit.
👉 Ready to get started? Book Now — our fall cleanup slots are filling fast!
Dumpster Sizes Explained
Dumpster sizes are measured in cubic yards—basically, how much debris they can hold. Our most popular bins are 12, 17, and 21 yards, built to handle heavy loads while still fitting into tight West Michigan driveways.
Unlike the oversized 30–40 yard boxes national chains push, our bins are sized for real homes and projects right here in Kent County.
Key Factors to Consider
1. Project Scope
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Small cleanouts / weekend projects → 12-Yard
Perfect for garages, basements, or yard waste.
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Medium remodels / roofing jobs → 17-Yard
Handles shingles, siding, or multiple rooms of household junk.
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Bigger builds / whole-home cleanouts → 21-Yard
Go-to bin for large renovations or moving prep.
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Maximum capacity → 25-Yard
Best for bulky items, estate cleanouts, or multi-room projects.
2. Type of Debris
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Heavy materials (roof shingles, dirt, concrete) → go smaller (12 or 17-yard) to stay under weight limits.
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Light, bulky items (furniture, carpet, drywall) → larger bins (21 or 25-yard) make sense.
3. Space Constraints
Our bins are designed for tight driveways and narrow alleys. If you’ve got limited space, don’t worry—we’ll make it fit where bigger bins can’t.
Pro Tips for Picking the Right Size
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✅ Overestimate a little — it’s cheaper than booking a second bin.
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✅ Ask us — tell us about your project, and we’ll point you to the right size.
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✅ Plan ahead — spring cleaning and fall yard projects fill up quickly, so reserve early.
FAQs for Homeowners & DIYers
What size dumpster do I need for a kitchen remodel?
Usually a 17- or 21-yard bin, depending on how many cabinets and appliances you’re tossing.
How much fits in a 21-yard dumpster?
Around 6–7 pickup truck loads—plenty for most home renovations or big cleanouts.
Can I switch sizes mid-project?
Yes—we’ll swap in a bigger bin quickly if you need more space.
Do dumpsters have weight limits?
Yes. But don’t stress—we’ll most homeowner’s will never exceed our 12,000 — 14,000lbs weight limit.
How soon should I book?
We recommend at least 3–5 days in advance, especially in spring and fall.
The Neighborly Difference
Other dumpster companies in Grand Rapids often push oversized bins or hide extra fees. Neighborly Hauling is different:
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🏡 Driveway-Friendly Bins — fit where others can’t
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💵 Transparent Pricing — pay only for what you use
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🌎 Local & Responsible — hauled to Kent County’s transfer station or waste-to-energy facility to support landfill reduction
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🛡️ Driveway Protection — every bin sits on Rolliskate HDPE pads to prevent damage
Wrap-Up
The right dumpster makes your project faster, easier, and stress-free. Whether you’re decluttering before a move, tackling a DIY remodel, or cleaning up the yard this fall, Neighborly Hauling has the bin that fits your job and your space.
👉 Book Now to reserve your dumpster today.
