⏱️ The "60‑second quote": how to accurately estimate your junk removal or dumpster needs

Cubic yards · truckload fractions · item types · helpful photos · fast online quotes

Getting a fast, accurate quote for junk removal or dumpster rental starts with good preparation. By learning to estimate volume in cubic yards or truckload fractions, identifying material types, and taking clear photos, you can receive a reliable estimate in under a minute. For a quick quote on a haul dumpster, follow this guide. Save our find us map for local providers, and use the Netlify app to practice estimating.

Pickup truck

Standard 8' bed (full size) = 2–3 cubic yards when level full. Heaped can reach 4 yards. Great baseline for small loads.

~2.5 yards

Sofa / couch

Average 3‑seater = 1 cubic yard. Loveseat = 0.75 yards. A sectional might be 2 yards.

~1 yard

Refrigerator

Standard 30" fridge = 1.5 cubic yards (includes void space). Chest freezer ≈ 1 yard.

1.5 yards

Trash bags

3–4 full 33‑gallon bags = 1 cubic yard. Compacted bags take less space.

3–4 bags = 1 yard

What is a cubic yard?

A cubic yard is 3 feet long × 3 feet wide × 3 feet high — about the size of a dishwasher or a small washing machine. Visualize:

1 cubic yard

3'×3'×3'

5 cubic yards

Small dumpster

10 cubic yards

1‑bedroom apartment

15 cubic yards

2‑bedroom house

How to take helpful photos

Wide shot

Show entire room or pile from doorway.

Include scale

Place a person, door, or tape measure next to items.

Multiple angles

Front, side, and top‑down if possible.

Label special items

Note electronics, mattresses, or hazardous items.

Identify item types for accurate pricing

60‑second quote checklist

Use our find us map to contact local providers. The Netlify app includes a photo‑based volume estimator — upload images and get an instant yardage range.