Why Roll-Off Containers Are Perfect for Heavy or Bulky Items

headboard in empty roll-off dumpster

Updated January 2, 2024

Most dumpsters have walls over 3 feet high, so it's understandable why those with heavy or bulky items to dispose of might be worried about how they're going to load their items into a dumpster.

Despite popular belief, loading heavy items is actually made easier with a roll-off container.

If you've never rented a traditional roll-off dumpster before, you might be unaware of the their design benefits specifically useful for loading large, awkwardly shaped items that can be difficult to lift.

We'll go over some of the biggest reasons why roll-offs are recommended to help you get rid of big or heavy items, like furniture and appliances.

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How Roll-Off Containers Make Loading Heavy Items Easy

empty white roll-off dumpster with swinging doors open

While getting rid of a couple pieces of furniture or an appliance could be a great project left for a junk removal company, those with large cleanup projects could save money by renting a dumpster instead.

What some consumers may not know is that roll-off containers feature a swinging side door that allows you to walk in items that might be too big to load from the top.

There are a variety of different dumpster styles to rent on a temporary basis, like trailer dumpsters on wheels, 3 yard bag-style dumpsters, and mini dumpsters. 

Roll-off containers, however, are the only style that offers a convenient way to walk in items that are difficult to lift. 

Other Ways to Get Rid of Large, Unwanted Items

There's no doubt that if you plan on renting a dumpster to get rid of your heavy items, renting a roll-off container is the way to go.

If you don't have enough items to get rid of to justify renting your own container, there are other solutions available to get rid of your unwanted items...

List Your Items Online

If your item is in somewhat decent condition, it might be worth listing for free on an online marketplace, like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.

Many people that work for non-profits search the internet for free items for their organization and would be happy to take your used furniture or working appliances off your hands.

If you have a broken down appliance, like an old washer and dryer, someone who recycles metal might be willing to remove your item and take to the scrap yard for some extra cash.

Keep reading: Appliance Removal Safety: Tips for Handling Heavy and Bulky Items

Arrange Bulk Trash Pickup Services

Some municipal disposal services offer bulk trash pickup for larger items.

Some areas offer them monthly, some offer them quarterly, some yearly, while others will come any time as long as you call ahead to make arrangements.

Every city and township is different, so reach out to your trash service to inquire about available options.

Hire a Junk Removal Service

Junk removal services are a quick, easy, and convenient way to get rid of things you no longer want. 

Removing a few pieces of furniture or a broken-down appliance can be done in under a half-hour with a professional junk removal team. 

Depending on the company and where you're located, you could even find a company that can offer same-day services so your unwanted items are removed quickly and without you having to lift a finger.

You can search your zip code on Hometown to easily find and request multiple quotes from reputable junk removal services in your area to compare prices, customer service, and availability.

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Share a Dumpster With a Neighbor

two neighbors talking between property fence

If you have a few large items you want to get rid of but don't think you can fill up a whole roll-off container on your own, talk with other homeowners on your street. 

Dumpster rentals are a popular service, especially when homeowners are moving or performing renovations.

Sharing a dumpster with your neighbor offers the convenience of using a dumpster while only being responsible for half the cost. 

Read on: Waste Not, Save a Lot: The Art of Neighborly Dumpster Sharing

How to Find a Roll-Off Container in Your Area

Anytime you're investing money on a project around the house, it's important to make sure you do research on the company you plan on hiring. 

Hometown makes finding reputable roll-off dumpster rental companies near you easy.

By using your zip code to run a quick search on Hometown, you'll be shown verified dumpster rental companies that service your area.

You can request free quotes from multiple providers to get a feel for the type of customer service you can expect to receive from each provider and what a competitive rental rate is in your are.


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