How to Choose the Right Bin for Your Renovation
When you’re planning a home renovation, demolition, or large cleanup, renting a dumpster (bin) becomes a key part of the process. But choosing the wrong size can lead to unnecessary costs, multiple pickups, or even project delays. Whether you’re a homeowner in Toronto renovating your kitchen or a contractor managing a job site, knowing how to pick the right bin size is essential.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
🚛 Why Bin Size Matters
Picking a bin that’s too small means you’ll either overfill it (which can result in extra fees) or you’ll need a second one. Renting a bin that’s too large means you’re paying for space you won’t use. Finding that “just right” size saves time, money, and effort. At Hippo Excavation, we offer a range of bin sizes across the GTA for residential and commercial projects, with fast delivery and pickup.
Common Dumpster Sizes and What They’re Used For:
- Here’s a breakdown of the most popular dumpster sizes in cubic yards, what they hold, and typical use cases:
- 4-Yard Bin
- Capacity: ~25–30 garbage bags
- Dimensions: ~6 ft L x 4 ft W x 4 ft H
- Best for: Small cleanups, yard waste, minor decluttering
✅ Perfect for condo cleanouts, spring cleaning, or clearing out a small garage.
- 10-Yard Bin
- Capacity: ~50–60 garbage bags
- Dimensions: ~10 ft L x 7 ft W x 4 ft H
- Best for: Small renovations like bathroom or laundry room
✅ Great for disposing of tiles, drywall, sinks, toilets, and cabinetry.
- 14-Yard Bin
- Capacity: ~80–100 garbage bags
- Dimensions: ~12 ft L x 8 ft W x 4.5 ft H
- Best for: Medium-size renos and cleanups
✅ Ideal for partial basement or kitchen renovations and household junk removal.
- 20-Yard Bin
- Capacity: ~120 garbage bags
- Dimensions: ~14 ft L x 8 ft W x 5 ft H
- Best for: Full home renovations, flooring removal, deck demolition
✅ One of the most versatile sizes—enough space for large loads without being too bulky for your driveway.
- 40-Yard Bin
- Capacity: ~240 garbage bags
- Dimensions: ~22 ft L x 8 ft W x 8 ft H
- Best for: Large-scale construction, major demolition, or commercial projects
✅ Suitable for contractors, estate cleanouts, and full gut jobs.
How to Choose the Right Size for Your Project
✅ 1. Consider the Project Scope
Ask yourself:
- How many rooms are involved?
- Are you removing just furniture or also drywall, flooring, and fixtures?
- Is it a one-day job or multi-week project?
For example, a kitchen renovation usually requires at least a 14-yard or 20-yard bin, depending on the size of the space and materials.
✅ 2. Understand Local Regulations
In many parts of the GTA, there are bylaws for where bins can be placed, especially on public property. Large bins may require a permit if left on the street.
At Hippo Excavation, we’ll help you navigate city rules and advise on the most convenient (and legal) placement options.
✅ 3. Avoid Overfilling
Every bin has a fill line—exceeding this not only risks spillage during transportation but can also result in extra fees or rejected pickups.
💡 Tip: Don’t stack waste above the bin’s rim. If in doubt, go one size up.
✅ 4. Factor in Weight
Some materials like concrete, bricks, and soil are heavy—and weight limits apply. Overloading a bin by weight, even if it’s not full, can also trigger extra charges.
Need to dispose of heavy debris? Let us know—we’ll guide you to the right bin and recommend safe loading practices.
Why Choose Hippo Excavation for Bin Rental in the GTA?
- 🚚 Same-day bin delivery
- 📏 Multiple sizes from 4 to 40 yards
- 💵 Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- 🏙️ Local expertise on bin placement & permits
- ♻️ Eco-friendly waste handling and recycling practices
Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or contractor, Hippo Excavation makes bin rental fast, affordable, and hassle-free.
Conclusion
📞 Get the Right Bin the First Time
Not sure what bin size you need? Let us help.
📞 Call us at 416-876-8970 or visit 🌐 hippoexcavation.ca to get a free quote or speak to our bin rental team.