When it comes to loading up your dumpster with all the waste and debris from the project you are working on, it is best practice not to just toss things in randomly.
There is actually a strategy for filling your dumpster so that you can get the most out of it at all times, while complying with the best health and safety practices and getting rid of everything all at once.
Planning how to effectively fill the bin when it arrives not only allows you to maximize that space, but also helps you overall with the project and the removal of all generated waste.
Not all waste should go into the landfill. Sometimes, people throw all their waste items into a dumpster to feel they are getting the best for their money, but this is not necessary or even desirable.
It is better to throw away only what needs to go in a dumpster, rather than just randomly tossing everything in and hoping for the best.
For example, sort out what could go to a reuse centre, be sent to a recycling depot, or be donated to local thrift stores or schools. The rest of the waste can then go into the bin.
If you have certain items that you are not sure about, then ask your dumpster rental company, as they are the experts and can give you the best advice.
Break up the bigger items before the dumpster arrives. Large things such as furniture should be dismantled. Boxes should be crushed and broken down. You should also cut up large pieces of wood or other construction materials into smaller pieces.
Doing so allows you to utilize the space more effectively and get into the dumpster while still complying with health and safety protocols. For the bulkier items, maybe consider taking them to a crushing plant to be reduced to their smallest size possible to assist in their disposal.
The lighter the item, the more likely it is to blow out of the dumpster when in transit. Bag up smaller and lighter items so that they are secured, and then throw the entire tied-up bag into the dumpster.
Try to make sure that the lighter stuff goes towards the bottom of the dumpster, as the heavier items will then sit on top and prevent them from flying away during transportation.
You and one other person should be able to easily lift the heavy items. If the items are too heavy for even two people, you can experience injury and have difficulty getting them into the dumpster.
Many bins will have a front opening to walk in the larger, bulky, and awkward things. Some companies will even have staff that can assist you in this process.
It can be very tempting to throw all waste items into the bin from the same side and the same spot.
However, this will create a buildup on one side of the dumpster, which can cause it to tip and become unsteady. In a worst-case scenario, it can fall over, either on the ground or when it is being lifted onto the truck for transport.
Try to make the layers of waste even. For example, throw things into the dumpster from different sides, and even them out as much as possible. If you have ever played Tetris, then these skills can be applied when loading the dumpster. All the items should fit and be safe for transportation when properly loaded.
If you load heavy items first, such as furniture, you can use the lighter things to fill in the gaps and help distribute the weight evenly.
All dumpsters come with a fill-to-line marker. While it might be tempting to do so, try not to cross this line.
By keeping to this line marker, you will comply with health and safety standards, and make it easier for the removal company to safely work and dispose of the items at the landfill.
Anything over this line could come loose and blow out of the bin when it is travelling down the road. This can endanger other drivers and pedestrians, which is an insurance claim that no one wants to deal with.
When properly filled, the dumpster will hold more than you think and remain below the line limit.
Junk removal companies can assist you with hazardous materials. They will either remove them or advise you where to take them for safe and proper disposal.
A list of what the company will take is easily accessible on its website and should be followed closely.
Avoid placing any hazardous waste in the dumpster. This is not just because it can take up valuable space, but because it cannot go into the landfill and needs to be handled separately.
In some towns and cities, fines can be applied if the wrong or hazardous materials end up in the landfill. These fines must then be paid by you—not the removal company.
Don’t just choose the largest dumpster size the company has to offer. You could then end up with a waste of space and money. Talk to the dumpster rental company about the project and your needs so that they can then recommend the best size and quote you appropriately.
Dumpsters are not a one-size-fits-all solution. There may be other things you need to consider in a dumpster rental, such as placement. If the bin needs to go onto the road, then you need to consult your local by-law. If it is going on your property, then you need to consider access and your neighbours.
Your dumpster rental company, again, is the best resource for knowledge and recommendations before you rent a dumpster and set up the delivery and removal dates.
For over thirty years, Scarborough Disposal Ltd. has been removing junk from Toronto homes and businesses and disposing of it safely, all with the environment and your wallet in mind.
With our fast and speedy service, we have a bin available for you. From mini bins to larger dumpsters, your project waste can be safely removed without additional hassle to yourself.
You can call us today at 416-265-7979 and let us know what materials you need removed or contact us online for more information about our services.