Efficient waste management doesn’t usually get the spotlight, but it can be the difference between a smooth, on-budget project and one filled with costly delays.
Think about it, every renovation, build, or demolition produces piles of debris that need to be dealt with. Without a clear plan for handling that waste, your worksite can quickly turn from organized to chaotic.
That’s where the right waste bin rental comes in.
Choosing the right bin size is more than a matter of convenience; it’s a strategic decision that affects safety, timelines, and cost.
Too small, and you’ll be stuck arranging multiple pickups or scrambling to fit debris where it doesn’t belong. Too large, and you’re paying for empty space you don’t need. The goal is to strike the perfect balance so your project stays efficient, your site stays clean, and your budget stays intact.
At Hersey Bins, we’ve seen firsthand how the right disposal bin sizes support projects across Ontario. From homeowners in Kitchener tackling bathroom renovations to contractors in Cambridge building new homes, and even large-scale demolition crews in Milton handling tons of concrete, the right waste bin make all the difference. Pair that with Hersey Bins’ commitment to eco-friendly practices, same-day delivery, and expert staff guidance, and you have a waste management solution designed to save time, money, and stress.
In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about waste bin rentals, including:
- How to assess your project needs
- A breakdown of available garbage bin sizes
- The Hersey Bins rental process, step by step
- Pro tips for efficient rentals and cost savings
- Common pitfalls to avoid
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to select the perfect bin for your next project, and why working with Hersey Bins gives you the peace of mind to focus on what matters most: getting the job done.
Understanding Your Project Needs
Before choosing a bin, it’s essential to take a step back and clearly define what kind of project you’re dealing with.
A small residential cleanout, for example, will generate a very different type and volume of waste compared to a full-scale commercial renovation or an industrial demolition site.
Each project type, residential, commercial, or industrial, comes with its own requirements for bin sizes, waste materials, and disposal methods. Understanding your project’s scope and nature from the beginning will help you choose a bin that is cost-effective and efficient.
Residential Projects
Homeowners often underestimate just how much waste a project can generate. What starts as a “small job” can quickly pile up into a mountain of debris.
Even simple renovations or seasonal cleanouts tend to produce more material than you’d expect, from bulky furniture and broken fixtures to drywall, flooring, and yard waste.
Without proper planning, this excess waste can lead to repeated dump runs, additional rental costs, or a messy, unsafe worksite.
Typical residential projects include:
- Cleanouts (basements, garages, attics, or entire homes)
- Renovations (bathrooms, kitchens, flooring, or full remodels)
- Landscaping and yard cleanups (tree branches, soil, shrubs, and seasonal debris)
For these kinds of projects, smaller waste bin sizes are often sufficient. A compact bin can easily handle a garage cleanout or a bathroom renovation. However, for larger undertakings, like tearing down multiple rooms, gutting an entire kitchen, or doing major landscaping, you may need a medium-sized bin to keep pace with the waste.
The right choice ensures your project remains efficient, cost-effective, and stress-free.
Commercial Construction
On commercial sites, debris accumulates at an alarming rate. Whether it’s a retail renovation, an office buildout, or new construction in a busy hub like Cambridge or Waterloo, contractors are often working under tight schedules, strict safety regulations, and budgetary constraints.
In these environments, waste management is about efficiency, safety, and keeping the project on track. Having the proper commercial garbage bin on-site ensures debris is contained, walkways remain clear, and crews can work without unnecessary interruptions. Time spent making runs to the dump or waiting for a full bin to be emptied can stop work in its tracks and put the project well above budget.
Commercial projects typically generate:
- Lumber and framing waste from new builds and remodels
- Drywall and insulation from interior construction and partition work
- Pallets and packaging from equipment, supplies, and materials deliveries
- Roofing materials like shingles, tar, and underlayment during replacements
For these types of projects, mid- to large-size bins are usually the best choice.
Smaller bins fill too quickly and can interrupt workflow, while oversized bins can take up valuable space in high-traffic areas.
The key is carefully calculating waste volume based on the square footage of the project, the type of construction, and the number of crew members on-site.
With the right bin rental, waste management becomes a seamless part of the job rather than an afterthought.
Our expert staff can help you determine the appropriate bin size for the type and volume of debris you are likely to see.
Industrial and Demolition Projects
Industrial or demolition projects—such as lumber operations in Wellesley or heavy concrete tear-downs in Milton—require heavy-duty solutions.
Debris is often bulky, dense, and generated in large quantities.
For these projects, Hersey Bins’ larger options are ideal, capable of handling heavy materials like:
- Concrete
- Brick and masonry
- Steel beams
- Bulk wood and pallets
Estimating Waste Volume
A common rule of thumb is to calculate the cubic yards of debris your project will generate and then choose a bin with at least 25% extra capacity. This buffer ensures you don’t fall short.
- Small cleanouts: ~7–10 cubic yards
- Medium renovations: ~15–20 cubic yards
- Large demolitions: ~20–40 cubic yards
Common Pitfalls When Choosing Disposal Bin Sizes
For some, estimating the amount of debris you’re likely to accumulate, and the space you will need in your disposal bin can be difficult. In most cases, individuals make one of the following mistakes:
- Overestimating: Renting a bin that’s too large means paying for unused space.
- Underestimating: Choosing one that’s too small leads to multiple pickups and delays.
We understand how hard it can be to conceptualize the disposal bin sizes and match them to your project needs. We have decades of experience in waste management and are happy to help you narrow down your options. Just a quick call to us before booking can save you hundreds of dollars in wasted time or space.
A Breakdown of Available Bin Sizes
At Hersey Bins, we provide a wide selection of waste bin rentals to fit projects of every scale. Whether you need a compact option for a garage cleanout or a large bin for demolition debris, we’ve got you covered.
Standard Bin Sizes
- 7-yard bins (10’ L x 8’ W x 2.5’ H): Ideal for small cleanouts, yard waste, or single-room renovations. Ideal for tight driveways and side yards.
- 10-yard bins (10’ L x 8’ W x 4’ H): A popular choice for medium projects like kitchen remodels or roofing jobs.
- 15-yard bins (11’ L x 8’ W x 5’ H): Great for multi-room renovations, moderate construction projects, or larger junk removal.
- 20-yard bins 14’ L x 8’W x 5’H): Suited to full-home renovations, estate cleanups or large commercial projects.
- 40-yard bins (20’ L x 8’ W x 8’ H): The largest option, designed for industrial and demolition debris.
Specialized Options
- Clean Fill Bin Rentals: For soil, gravel, or concrete. Perfect for landscaping or construction prep.
- Construction Bin Rentals: Built for heavy-duty sites and large-scale builds.
- Junk Removal Bin Rentals: Designed for quick cleanouts of general household waste.
Recycling Waste
Hersey Bins is committed to eco-friendly disposal. We make every effort to divert recyclables from landfills working with licensed recycling and disposal centres and educating customers on sustainable waste practices.
We can even offer dedicated recycling bins for:
- Cardboard
- Metal
- Wood
- Plastics
Permanent Dumpsters for Businesses
For businesses with ongoing waste management needs, permanent dumpsters may be a better option.
While not a short-term rental, these solutions ensure consistent disposal and cost savings over time. With regular scheduled pickups, flexible bin sizes, and expert support, you can continue your commercial or industrial projects confidently, knowing that your waste is managed both effectively and efficiently.
Additional Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bin
- Material restrictions: Certain hazardous items cannot be placed in rental bins. If you are unsure about an item, please contact us for guidance and proper disposal instructions.
- Placement: You will want to place the bin in a convenient location. Our bins are delivered on wood to protect your driveway or property.
- Rental duration: Standard rentals last up to 7 days, with extensions available.
- Same-day delivery: Hersey Bins guarantees prompt service to keep projects moving. We will deliver your bin within 24 hours of your request.
The Hersey Bins Rental Process: From Selection to Pickup
Renting a bin with Hersey Bins is simple, fast, and designed with customer convenience in mind.
Step 1: Select the Right Bin
Our team helps you choose the perfect garbage bin size based on your project type and waste volume.
Step 2: Delivery
We offer same-day delivery, placing the bin carefully on wood to protect your property.
Step 3: Load at Your Leisure
Take up to 7 days (with extensions available) to load your bin.
Step 4: Pickup and Cleanup
Once you’re done, we return to pick up the bin and sweep the area clean.
This step-by-step process ensures you avoid common pitfalls like mismatched bin sizes or unexpected delays.
Pro Tips for Efficient Waste Bin Rental
Maximize your rental with these expert tips:
- Accurately estimate waste
- Use online calculators or call Hersey Bins for tailored advice on disposal bin sizes.
- Consider location and access
- Ensure there’s enough space for delivery trucks and safe bin placement.
- Plan for recyclables
- Choose recycling bin sizes to reduce landfill waste and support Hersey Bins’ eco-friendly commitment.
- Budget wisely
- Account for rental extensions or multiple bins for larger projects. Don’t get caught underestimating your needs.
Find the Right Waste Bin Size with Hersey Bins
Choosing the right waste bin rental can make or break your project.
By assessing your project needs, accurately estimating waste volume, and selecting from Hersey Bins’ wide range of bin sizes, you ensure a smooth, cost-effective, and eco-friendly process.
With Hersey Bins, you get:
- A wide selection of garbage bin sizes
- Same-day delivery and flexible rentals
- Eco-friendly disposal with dedicated recycling bin sizes
- Friendly, knowledgeable service
If you have a project that requires waste management in Waterloo, Cambridge, Milton, Wellesley, Guelph, Woolwich, Hamilton, and other locations in Southwestern Ontario, we have the bin rental solution for you.
Contact us for expert guidance, same-day delivery, and a hassle-free rental experience.
Are you ready to streamline your project?
