Renovating your home or business is exciting… but it also generates a lot of waste. Whether it’s demolition debris, old furniture or residual materials, it’s essential to set up an efficient management system to avoid accumulation and trips to the ecocenter.
The solution
Hire a container to suit your needs.
But how do you choose the right size without wasting money or running out of space? In this article, SMAG Express guides you step-by-step to making the right choice.container for your renovation work?
Why is container size so important?
Choosing a container that’s too small means you’ll have to empty it several times, which increases your costs and slows down your project.
Choosing a container that’s too large means paying for unused space.
The objective is simple: find the right balance between capacity, duration of work and type of waste. Here are the key criteria to consider.
1. Assess the nature of your work
Each type of worksite generates different volumes of waste. Here are a few examples:
| Project type | Estimated waste volume | Recommended size |
|---|---|---|
| Small renovations (bathroom, painting) | Low | 10 yards |
| Cellar or garage clearance | Medium | 14 to 20 yards |
| Complete kitchen renovation | Medium to high | 20 to 30 yards |
| Interior demolition or roofing | High | 30 to 40 yards |
| Commercial or multi-unit sites | Very high | 40 yards |
2. Understand the standard sizes available for your type of work
At SMAG Express, we offer 5 container sizes to cover every need:
🔹 10-yard container
- Capacity: approx. 4 pick-ups
- Ideal for: small renovation or gardening jobs
- Advantage: compact size, perfect for small spaces
🔹 14-yard container
- Capacity: approx. 5 to 6 pick-ups
- Ideal for: garage cleaning, small removals
- Advantage: good volume/price ratio for medium-sized projects
🔹 20-yard container
- Capacity: approx. 8 pick-ups
- Ideal for: kitchen or bathroom renovation
- Advantage: popular, all-purpose format
🔹 30-yard container
- Capacity: approx. 12 pick-ups
- Ideal for: demolition projects or major renovations
- Advantage: generous space without going overboard
🔹 40-yard container
- Capacity: approx. 16 pick-ups
- Ideal for: commercial projects, roofing, heavy-duty cleaning
- Advantage: optimal solution for large volumes
3. Estimate your actual waste volume
Containers are often rented for a fixed period. To avoid unpleasant surprises, try to :
- Make a list of items to be disposed of (furniture, appliances, materials)
- Use volume estimation applications (or ask our team for advice)
- Think in terms of “pick-up trucks”: 1 pick-up = about 2.5 yards
SMAG tip: when hesitating between two sizes, choose the larger one. It’s often cheaper than a second pick-up.
4. Consider the space available on your plot
Before reserving, measure the space in front of your house or building.
Make sure that a truck can access the area and that the container will not block a public thoroughfare (in this case, a city permit may be required).
Here’s an overview of the average dimensions:
| Size | Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 yards | 12 feet | 8 feet | 4 feet |
| 20 yards | 22 feet | 8 feet | 4.5 feet |
| 40 yards | 22 feet | 8 feet | 8 feet |
Not enough space? Talk to us about a street drop-off solution or a more compact container!
5. Identify materials for disposal
Not all waste is created equal. Some materials take up more space, others are heavier (and therefore subject to weight restrictions).
Here are a few things to consider:
Accepted :
- Wood, plaster, brick, concrete
- Furniture, household appliances
- Earth, asphalt, metal
To be avoided or managed separately:
- Hazardous waste (paint, propane, tires)
- Electronic devices
- Contaminated materials
Our team can advise you on what waste is permitted. It’s always best to ask before you fill out!
6. Define the duration of your rental
At SMAG Express, basic rental includes several days’ use. But if you’re working long hours or running behind schedule, it’s best to plan ahead.
Think about :
- The start date of your work
- Time required to fill the container
- Unforeseen weather or site conditions
Good to know: an overfilled container (beyond the rims) may incur additional charges. It’s best to rent a slightly larger container to avoid this.
The advantages of choosing SMAG Express
By choosing our service, you benefit from :
- Fast delivery in less than 24h
- Competitive prices guaranteed
- Clean, robust and environmentally friendly containers
- 24/7 personalized service
- Quick pick-up on demand
Our team will help you choose the ideal size, and accompany you throughout the rental process for a hassle-free worksite.
🔁 And if you still have doubts?
Give us a call or fill in our quick request form. We’ll ask you a few questions about :
- The nature of your project
- Types of waste generated
- Estimated duration
- Delivery address
And we’ll recommend the container size best suited to your situation.
FAQ – Choosing a container
1. What happens if I overfill my container?
It must not protrude over the edges. Otherwise, we cannot transport it safely. Additional charges may apply.
2. Can I rent a container for one day only?
Yes, but the minimum rate applies. However, our packages include several days at no extra charge.
3. Do I have to be present at the delivery?
No, as long as the area is clear and accessible. The team will drop off the container at the agreed location.
4. Does SMAG Express offer weekend services?
Yes, we’re available 7 days a week, including holidays!
5. Is the waste recycled?
Yes, we work with sorting centers to maximize the recycling of materials.
6. Which regions are covered by your services?
We serve Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, South Shore and North Shore.
