Roll Off Bins vs Regular Dumpster Bins: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to waste disposal, choosing the right type of bin for your project is essential. Whether you’re managing a construction site, a major home renovation, or a clean-up project, understanding the benefits and differences between roll off bins and regular dumpsters can help you make an informed decision.

What is a Roll Off Bin?

 

A roll off bin is not your average garbage bin. Unlike smaller 6-12 yard dumpsters commonly serviced by garbage trucks, roll off bins are designed for heavy-duty use on construction and clean-up sites. Here are some key characteristics:

• Large Capacity: Ranging from 10 to 40 cubic yards, roll off bins handle significant volumes of waste or debris.
• On-Site Convenience: These bins stay on-site for as long as you need, only being removed when you call for pickup.

 

• Accessibility:
  • Equipped with a back door that opens fully, allowing easy entry.
  • With a 7.5 to 8-foot-wide open door, you can drive equipment like skid steers, Bobcats, or tractors directly into the bin to unload materials.
  • Ideal for loading heavy or awkward debris, ensuring every bit of space is efficiently used.

Pros of Roll Off Bins

1. Versatile Access: The open back door is a game changer for projects that require heavy machinery, making it easy to load large items or scrape up the last bit of debris with an excavator.
2. Large Capacity: Perfect for handling bulky construction materials, demolition debris, or landscaping waste.
3. Customizable Use: Ideal for projects that require extended on-site storage until the bin is full and ready for pickup.
4. Extreme Versatility: To save time on the job, a skid steer can be picked up and delivered with the bin. The skid steer is secured inside the bin for an easy one-stop delivery.

Cons of Roll Off Bins

1. Not Weatherproof: Roll off bins are open-topped, meaning rain or snow can enter and affect the contents. However, for waste transportation, this usually has minimal consequences.
2. No Covering: Unlike some regular dumpsters, roll off bins do not have lids to contain waste or protect against the elements.
3. Potential for Overflow: Without a cover, lightweight materials can potentially blow out of the bin if not properly secured.

How Are Regular Dumpsters Different?

In contrast, regular dumpsters are smaller, lidded garbage bins that are typically serviced on a routine basis by garbage trucks. These are more commonly used for:

• Residential or small business waste management.
• Daily garbage collection rather than large-scale clean-up projects.
• Locations with limited space where a smaller bin is more practical.

Regular dumpsters are better suited for general waste disposal rather than the specialized needs of construction, demolition, or landscaping projects.