When it comes to waste disposal, dumpsters and roll-offs are two popular options. While they serve the same purpose, there are 5 distinct differences between the two. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right option for your needs.
1. Structure and Design:
Dumpsters are large, rectangular bins with a closed top. They are typically made of steel and come in various sizes, ranging from 2 cubic yards to 8 cubic yards for residential use and up to 40 cubic yards for commercial use. Dumpsters have an opening on the top typically seen at apartment complexes and restaurants.
A roll-off dumpster, on the other hand, is a rectangular container with a hinged door at one end. They are typically larger than standard dumpsters, with sizes ranging from 10 cubic yards to 40 cubic yards. Roll-off dumpsters are designed to be transported by special trucks equipped with hydraulic arms that lift and roll the container onto the truck for transportation. You typically see these dumpsters at jobs sites or home cleanouts.
2. Placement and Mobility:
Dumpsters are stationary and are typically placed on a flat surface such as a driveway or parking lot. They cannot be easily moved once placed, so it’s important to choose the placement carefully.
Roll-off dumpsters are designed to be mobile. They can be easily transported to different locations using the roll-off truck. This makes them ideal for construction sites or other projects for larger waste disposal needs
3. Loading and Unloading:
Dumpsters are loaded by tossing waste over the side. They are unloaded by tilting the dumpster and emptying the contents into a larger disposal container or truck.
Roll-off dumpsters are loaded by walking or rolling waste into the open end of the container. Once full, the roll-off truck lifts the container and rolls it onto the truck for transportation to the dump.
4. Usage and Applications:
Dumpsters are commonly used for residential and commercial waste disposal. They are suitable for household cleanouts, renovations, and small construction projects.
Roll-off dumpsters are ideal for larger projects such as major construction, demolition, or renovation projects. They can also be used for large-scale cleanouts or events generating a significant amount of waste.
5. Cost:
Dumpsters are generally more affordable than roll-off dumpsters. They are a cost-effective option for small to medium-sized projects.
Roll-off dumpsters are more expensive due to their larger size and the additional costs associated with transportation and disposal. However, they offer more capacity and flexibility for larger projects.
In conclusion, while dumpsters and roll-offs serve the same purpose, they differ in terms of design, mobility, loading and unloading methods, usage, and cost. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right option for your specific waste disposal needs.