Looking to rent a dumpster in Flint, MI? Our guide compares 10 yard vs 15 yard dumpsters to help you choose the perfect size for your home renovation, cleanout, or construction project.
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10 Yard vs. 15 Yard Dumpster: Which Size Is Right for Your Project?

Choosing the right dumpster size can make or break your project. Too small and you’ll need a second delivery (costing you more time and money). Too large and you’re paying for space you don’t use. At Happy Can Dumpsters, we’ve helped countless Genesee County residents find their perfect match. Let’s compare two of our most popular mid-sized options: the 10 yard and 15 yard dumpsters.

Understanding Dumpster Sizes: What Do “Yards” Actually Mean?

When we talk about a 10 or 15 yard dumpster, we’re referring to cubic yards—a measurement of volume, not length. A cubic yard equals 3 feet × 3 feet × 3 feet of space. So a 10 yard dumpster holds 10 cubic yards of waste (about 270 cubic feet), while a 15 yard container holds 15 cubic yards (approximately 405 cubic feet).

But what does this mean in practical terms? Let’s break down each size to help you visualize what will fit in your dumpster.

10 Yard Dumpster: Dimensions and Capacity

Our 10 yard dumpsters typically measure around 14 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 3.5 feet high (dimensions may vary slightly). This size holds roughly 3-4 pickup truck loads of material.

A 10 yard dumpster works well for smaller projects where space might be limited. You can fit approximately 50-70 regular trash bags or about 2-3 tons of material (weight limits vary based on the type of waste).

15 Yard Dumpster: Dimensions and Capacity

The 15 yard option usually measures about 16 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 4 feet high. It holds around 5-6 pickup truck loads of debris.

With a 15 yard container, you can dispose of roughly 75-100 regular trash bags or about 3-4 tons of material, depending on what you’re throwing away.

Which Projects Are Best for a 10 Yard Dumpster?

A 10 yard dumpster is ideal for:

• Single-room renovations (like a kitchen or bathroom remodel)
• Cleaning out a one-car garage
• Small deck removal
• Minor landscaping projects
• Residential cleanouts (like when you’re decluttering or moving)

The 10 yard size fits well in tighter spaces like driveways or small yards, making it perfect for homes in more compact neighborhoods throughout Flint, Burton, or Fenton.

When to Choose a 15 Yard Dumpster

The 15 yard container is better suited for:

• Larger home renovation projects (like redoing multiple rooms)
• Medium-sized roofing jobs
• Whole-house cleanouts
• Garage or basement cleanouts with bulkier items
• Moderate landscaping or yard cleanup projects

This size offers that extra breathing room many homeowners in Genesee County need without jumping to our much larger options.

Cost Comparison: Is Bigger Always More Expensive?

While a 15 yard dumpster typically costs more than a 10 yard, the price difference might be smaller than you think. Sometimes paying a bit more for the larger size can actually save you money if you’re on the fence about which to choose.

Why? Because ordering a second 10 yard dumpster if you run out of space will always cost more than getting the 15 yard from the start. Our team can provide specific pricing based on your location in Genesee County and the type of waste you’re disposing of.

Weight Considerations: What Many Customers Overlook

One crucial factor that’s easy to forget is weight limits. Different materials have vastly different weights. For example:

• Household junk and furniture: relatively light
• Concrete, dirt, or roofing materials: extremely heavy

If you’re disposing of heavy materials, you might reach the weight limit before filling the entire dumpster. In these cases, multiple smaller dumpsters might work better than one large one.

Space Requirements: Will It Fit Where You Need It?

Both dumpster sizes need a relatively flat surface with enough clearance for our trucks to drop off and pick up the container. The 15 yard dumpster requires slightly more space, which might be a deciding factor if you have a small driveway or tight street.

For homes in downtown Flint or older neighborhoods with limited space, the 10 yard option often works better.

Still Not Sure? Let Our Local Experts Help

Our friendly team at Happy Can Dumpsters knows Genesee County inside and out. We’ve helped countless customers from Grand Blanc to Mount Morris find their perfect dumpster match.

For a happy dump, call HAPPY CAN today! We’ll ask about your specific project, location, and timeline to recommend the ideal size. We offer same-day delivery when you call before noon, and our flexible scheduling includes weekend options to fit your busy life.