dumpsters

Dumpsters are large waste containers used for temporary storage and transport of refuse. They are commonly employed on construction sites, by businesses, and in households for bulk waste, debris, or recyclables during cleanup or remodeling. Dumpsters are usually rented from waste-management companies and hauled by specialized trucks.

Most dumpsters fall into two main types: roll-off and front- or rear-load. Roll-off dumpsters are open-top, rectangular steel containers loaded onto a truck with a hooklift or crane and typically range from 10 to 40 cubic yards. Front-load and rear-load dumpsters are smaller and mounted on garbage trucks, with capacities commonly 2 to 8 cubic yards.

Construction and features: Dumpsters are primarily steel, sometimes coated to resist corrosion, and often have lids to reduce odors and weather exposure. Some designs include locking doors or gates, wheels or skids for movement, and lifting hardware for truck-mounted handling.

Use and regulation: Placement on private property is common, but placing a dumpster on public streets may require a municipal permit and adherence to local rules. Weight limits and prohibited materials—hazardous waste, chemicals, asbestos, batteries, tires, and liquids—are regulated by jurisdictions.

History and etymology: The term Dumpster derives from the Dempster Brothers of Chicago, who introduced the first metal waste containers in the 1930s under the Dumpster brand; the word later became generic for similar containers.