Buyer’s checklist
How to choose a dumpster company
A roll-off rental looks simple until the invoice arrives. These are the questions worth asking before you book with anyone — and why each one changes the total.
Ownership
This checklist is published by Midwest Containers. This site is owned and operated by Midwest Construction Company, Inc., the parent of Midwest Containers. Quote requests on this site go to Midwest Containers.
- 01
Is delivery and pickup included in the quote?
Why it mattersA low price that excludes delivery and pickup is not a low price. Some haulers quote the container and the disposal separately, so the number you compare is not the number you pay. Ask for the total, including both trips.
- 02
What weight is included, and what happens if you go over?
Why it mattersRoll-off pricing is built around weight. A rental that includes 4 tons and one that includes 1 ton can look similar on the phone and be hundreds apart at the end. Ask for the included tonnage in writing.
- 03
What is the overage rate, and is it posted?
Why it mattersOverage is where surprise bills come from. A rate you were told is defensible. A rate buried in a contract is not. If the hauler will not put the per-ton rate in the quote, keep asking.
- 04
How long is the rental, and what do extra days cost?
Why it mattersA 7-day rental and a 14-day rental are different products for a remodel. Ask how many days are included, what a day costs after that, and whether the price changes if you keep it a month.
- 05
How soon can you deliver?
Why it mattersProjects stall when the container does not show. Ask the delivery window, not just the day, so you know whether to be there and whether the debris can be staged.
- 06
What can’t go in the container?
Why it mattersEvery hauler refuses some things, and many charge extra for others: mattresses, box springs, Freon appliances, and tires are common. Knowing the list before you load saves an unload.
- 07
Who do I call if there is a problem?
Why it mattersA container in the wrong spot or a pickup that does not come needs a human, fast. Get a direct number and the hours someone answers. A national call center is a different experience from a local dispatcher.
Labeled section
How Midwest Containers answers these
These answers come from Midwest Containers’ published rates and business details. This guide does not describe how any other company answers.
- Is delivery and pickup included?
- Yes. Delivery and pickup are included in every Midwest Containers rental, along with 14 days.
- What weight is included?
- A 20-yard includes 4 tons, a 30-yard includes 5 tons, and a 40-yard includes 6 tons.
- Overage rate?
- $75 per ton over the included allowance, prorated. It is posted on this site, not held back for the invoice.
- Rental length and extra days?
- 14 days are included. After day 14, extra days are $5 per day.
- How soon can you deliver?
- Delivery is next day to homes, construction sites, and businesses. Call 513-265-8411 to schedule.
- What costs extra?
- Mattresses, box springs, appliances containing Freon, and tires carry an extra charge. Call for the current charge.
- Who do I call?
- Midwest Containers directly, at 513-265-8411, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.