Renting a dumpster can be a game-changer when tackling home cleanouts, renovations, landscaping projects, or construction work. But if you’re not careful, simple oversights can turn a convenient solution into an unexpected headache. At Red Dog Dumpsters, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help you avoid the most common pitfalls when renting a dumpster in Nashville and surrounding areas.
If you’re planning a project that requires debris removal, here are the 10 most common mistakes to avoid—and how to ensure your dumpster rental experience is smooth, affordable, and hassle-free.
1. Choosing the Wrong Dumpster Size
One of the biggest—and costliest—mistakes people make is selecting the wrong dumpster size. A dumpster that’s too small will fill up fast, potentially requiring an additional rental. Go too big, and you may overpay for space you don’t use.
How to avoid it:
Work with a knowledgeable provider like Red Dog Dumpsters, who will help you assess the scope of your project and recommend the ideal size. We offer 10-yard and 15-yard dumpsters, which are perfect for residential and small commercial jobs.
2. Not Checking What You Can (and Can’t) Throw Away
Not everything can go in a dumpster. Items like batteries, paint, tires, propane tanks, and hazardous chemicals are typically prohibited. Tossing restricted materials could result in fines or extra charges.
How to avoid it:
Ask for a list of prohibited materials before your rental begins. Red Dog Dumpsters provides clear disposal guidelines so you can clean up confidently and responsibly.
3. Ignoring Permit Requirements
Planning to place your dumpster on the street or public property? Some municipalities require a permit, and failing to get one could result in fines or forced removal.
How to avoid it:
Place your dumpster on a private driveway when possible. If a public placement is necessary, contact your local municipality in advance. Not sure if you need a permit? Our team at Red Dog Dumpsters can help you figure it out.
4. Overfilling the Dumpster
It may be tempting to squeeze in just a little more, but loading above the fill line is both dangerous and against regulations. Overfilled dumpsters may not be picked up and can result in additional fees or delayed service.
How to avoid it:
Keep debris below the top rail and load items evenly. Our drivers will tarp the load before transport, so keeping the load level ensures a safe and successful pickup.
5. Blocking Access for Delivery or Pickup
Placing your dumpster in an area that’s hard to access or blocking it with vehicles can cause delays and additional costs. A blocked dumpster is a missed pickup.
How to avoid it:
Choose a flat, clear surface and make sure there’s at least 60 feet of clearance for the truck to maneuver. Driveway deliveries are ideal for most residential projects.
6. Underestimating Rental Duration
Many people assume the job will take a day or two—only to discover it takes a week or more. Extending a rental at the last minute can result in schedule conflicts or extra fees, especially during peak times.
How to avoid it:
Build in a buffer. At Red Dog Dumpsters, we offer 7-day standard rentals and 30-day options for larger or more flexible projects.
7. Tossing in Prohibited or Hazardous Materials
From gasoline containers to asbestos materials, hazardous waste has no place in a standard dumpster. Disposing of such items improperly can lead to environmental violations and costly penalties.
How to avoid it:
When in doubt, ask! Red Dog Dumpsters provides you with a clear list of materials that are and aren’t accepted—and we’ll guide you to the right disposal method if needed.
8. Not Factoring in Recycling Opportunities
Many materials like metal, cardboard, and wood can be recycled instead of dumped, reducing environmental impact and possibly saving money.
How to avoid it:
Separate recyclable materials before loading the dumpster or ask us how we handle sorting. Red Dog Dumpsters supports eco-friendly disposal practices whenever possible.
9. Choosing an Inconvenient Placement Location
Putting the dumpster too far from the project area can lead to extra effort and delays, especially if you’re carrying heavy materials.
How to avoid it:
Our team will work with you to place the dumpster in the most accessible location based on your layout—whether that’s the driveway, backyard, or even inside the garage for discreet loading.
10. Picking the Wrong Dumpster Company
Not all dumpster providers are created equal. Some may tack on hidden fees, deliver late, or provide poor communication—leaving you frustrated and behind schedule.
How to avoid it:
Select a reputable, local company with excellent reviews and a proven track record. At Red Dog Dumpsters, we’ve earned the trust of homeowners and contractors throughout Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and Middle Tennessee with our guaranteed same-day delivery, flat-rate pricing, and over 1,000 five-star Google reviews.
Don’t Let Dumpster Rental Mistakes Derail Your Project
Renting a dumpster should make your cleanup easier, not harder. By avoiding these common mistakes—and working with a dependable provider like Red Dog Dumpsters—you’ll save time, money, and a whole lot of stress.
Whether you’re cleaning out a garage, renovating your kitchen, or managing a landscaping overhaul, we’ve got the dumpster for you—delivered fast, priced fairly, and backed by unbeatable service.
Book Your Dumpster Today with Red Dog Dumpsters
Ready to get started? Call (615) 933-3300 or book your dumpster online and experience the Red Dog difference. We make junk removal easy, affordable, and stress-free—just the way it should be.
Serving Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro & Middle Tennessee with trusted, hassle-free dumpster rentals.