The basics of purchasing roll-off containers

Roll-off containers have come a long way in how they’re constructed over the year.

Today, roll-off containers are stronger, more efficient and more specialized than ever before. The size of the task, the duration of the job and even the nature of the materials being hauled all play a factor in helping customers decide what their best option might be.

By addressing a few questions, customers can determine the type of roll-off container that can best handle the job at hand.

Rectangular or Tub: Which roll-off container type do I need?

Believe it or not, location can play a big role in determining which type of container is best. Rectangular roll-off containers are mostly ordered in the Northeast. They resemble containers often seen on cargo ships that are made of reinforced steel to accommodate the densest and most rugged waste material.

Tub containers, conversely, are used more often in southern and southwestern states. They're smooth-sided and stackable, with no outer rail structure. They're ideal for signage and easy-to-apply decals, depending on what is required for a job's visibility.

What size roll-off container do I need?

The amount of debris being hauled will ultimately vary from project to project. Selecting the correct size for one’s job site can help save time and money. Knowing which size best accommodates each job is critical in the roll-off selection.

• 10 yards: The smallest roll-off container, typically holding between 2 to 3 tons, is the most agile. Operators can wheel 10-yard roll-offs into tight spaces for easy loading of anything from simple home cleanouts to hauling away concrete and dirt. These can also handle small-scale jobs of heavy-duty material.  

• 15 yards: 15-yard roll-offs, which also hold between 2 to 3 tons, are good for hauling out a lot of concrete or bulkier items such as bathroom fixtures. These are also a good fit for cleanouts of various types of waste, from plywood to fencing to larger metal pieces. These are perfect for the disposal of old roof shingles, paving stones and other materials generated from renovation work.

• 20 yards: Most jobs call for the 20- or 30-yard roll-off container capable of holding roughly six pickup truck loads of material. This container features more room for landscaping debris such as removal of rocks, sod and trees. This is ideal for multi-level tasks, such as cleanouts and renovations, where approximately 3 tons of material need to be hauled.

• 30 yards: For longer-term jobs that involve more substantial materials totaling between 3.5 and 5 tons, the 30-yard roll-off can be a good investment thanks to its larger capacity and higher wall construction. These containers may be used for cleaning out furniture, renovations and a landscaping makeover all at once, for example.  

• 40 yards: Contractors and property owners often call for the largest of roll-off containers capable of holding 5 to 6 tons. High walls allow users to stack waste material for removal. It’s the top choice for the biggest jobs in demolition, renovation and restoration.

How long will I need a roll-off container?

How long a customer needs a roll-off depends entirely on the job. Weather and time of year can also factor into how long the customer will need to keep the container since these variables can delay projects. Keep in mind that cold-weather regions and rainy seasons can impact a job’s completion schedule which, in return, can impact how long the roll-off will be needed.

What can I load in a roll-off container?

The maximum weight permitted for a container is 10 tons, regardless of the size. However, the density is another story. 10-yard through 20-yard roll-off containers are ideal for heavy items like dirt, concrete and shingles. Items such as mattresses and pallets—high in surface area but low in density—easily fit into a 40-yard container with room for much more material.

How will I haul away my roll-off container?

Once a container has been filled, there are several ways the container can be taken from the site.

Cable hoists

These highly durable haulers are built with high-strength structural steel tubing. Equipped with inside and outside controls, they offer flexibility and dependability.

Hook hoists

The top choice for maneuverability or versatility, these are ideal for hauling shorter containers and retrieving them from tight spaces. Hook hoists allow a driver to retrieve a container without having to step outside the cab, removing the risk of exposure to the elements or risk of slipping in icy conditions.

What else should I know about roll-off containers?

Innovation: Roll-off containers have come a long way. Rather than beef up the amount of steel in a structure for strength, some manufacturers use higher tensile strength gauge steel to maximize the payload and improve the container’s strength. For example, Wastequip’s RockBox Roll-Off Containers are made with Hardox wear plates, which are four times stronger than ordinary mild steel grades while weighing 20 percent less and lasting twice as long as traditional heavy-duty roll-off containers, the company says. This technology provides strength while minimizing the weight of the container to allow for more scrap weight.

Disaster relief: When hurricanes and tornadoes hit, roll-off container providers stay ahead of the game. Some roll-off container companies deploy their services to regions hit by catastrophic weather events to streamline recovery.

Expertise: Each job is unique. It helps to have an expert in the field of waste collection and removal to offer the most comprehensive and cost-efficient solutions. Customers should check out companies in their area and call a representative to find the best solution.

Safety and durability: It’s crucial that anyone using roll-off containers stay safe. The following safety features should be considered when choosing a roll-off.  

Heavy-gauge steel: A roll-off container is only as strong as its floor and walls. Look for fully welded inseams and rust-inhibiting primer inside and out.

Safety standards: The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) establishes safety requirements for products such as roll-off containers. Companies deploying roll-offs should make sure they’re ANSI-certified before working with them.

Flexibility: The right roll-off container for the job goes a long way in giving customers the most for their money and the safest experience. Companies should look for a provider that offers custom solutions and adaptable options for one’s needs.

Greg Shields is a steel product manager at Wastequip.