15 & 20 Yard Dumpster Dimensions & Sizes
Answer three quick questions to compare Merit's 15-yard and 20-yard roll-off containers. Both are approximately 12' long × 8' wide with 2 tons included — the 15-yard has 4.2' walls, the 20-yard 5.6'.
Merit runs a 15-yard and a 20-yard roll-off. Both share the same about 12 ft × 8 ft footprint— only the wall height differs, so the larger container takes up no more driveway space.
The 15-yard holds roughly six pickup loads; the 20-yard about eight. Both include 2 tons.
If your estimate lands between the two, take the 20-yard. It's $30 more, and a second container costs far more than that.
Reviewed September 7, 2026. Prices and included scope are checked against our current rate card.
15 vs. 20 Yard Dumpster Size Chart
These are Merit's compact roll-off dimensions. Other companies' containers can have different measurements for the same cubic-yard capacity.
| Size | Length × width × height | 3 days / 5 days | Good starting point |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 cubic yards | 12 ft × 8 ft × 4.2 ft | $350 / $395 | Garage cleanouts, room remodels and easier loading over lower walls. 15 yard dumpster details · Check availability |
| 20 cubic yards | 12 ft × 8 ft × 5.6 ft | $380 / $425 | Bulkier household cleanouts and larger remodeling projects. 20 yard dumpster details · Check availability |
Both include 2 tons. The 20-yard gives you more volume for $30 more, with the same footprint and included weight. Dimensions are approximate; truck access needs more space than the container itself. See our driveway placement guide.
Need a dumpster rental in Colorado Springs? Compare the options above, then check delivery dates. For costs beyond the base rental, see our rental pricing and fee guide.
Find Your Starting Point.
This tool provides planning guidance, not a final weight calculation. Confirm dense, unusual, or regulated material before booking.
15 Yard
A practical fit for garage cleanouts, room remodels, smaller yard projects, repairs, and situations where lower walls make loading easier.
- 15 cubic yards
- Approximately 12' L × 8' W × 4.2' H
- Lower loading height
- 2 tons included
20 Yard
More volume for whole-home cleanouts, estates, multi-room renovations, bulky branches, roofing, and construction projects.
- 20 cubic yards
- Approximately 12' L × 8' W × 5.6' H
- More vertical capacity
- 2 tons included
Volume is not weight. A container filled with furniture or brush weighs much less than one containing shingles, tile, dirt, concrete, or rock. Heavy material requires advance approval.
Dumpster Size FAQ
How big is a 15-yard dumpster?
Merit's 15-yard dumpster holds 15 cubic yards in an approximately 12-foot-long by 8-foot-wide footprint with walls about 4.2 feet high. Its lower walls make it easier to hand-load.
How big is a 20-yard dumpster?
Merit's 20-yard dumpster holds 20 cubic yards in an approximately 12-foot-long by 8-foot-wide footprint with walls about 5.6 feet high. Its taller walls provide more volume for bulky and larger projects.
Does the dumpster size change the included weight?
Both Merit rental options include 2 tons. Dense material can reach the weight allowance before either container looks full.
What if I choose the wrong size?
Call or text Merit before booking if you are uncertain. Describe the project, volume, and materials so we can help you choose and identify heavy-material concerns.
Still not sure which size?
Describe what you're clearing and we'll tell you honestly which container fits — including when the smaller one is enough.
- No address or payment details
- Most replies within a few hours
- Three fields, about twenty seconds
Faster: call (719) 203-2529 or send a text— or book online if you already know the size and dates.