Estate Cleanout Dumpster Guide: Managing a Big Job

Estate cleanouts are some of the biggest projects we handle. Whether you're downsizing a family home, managing an inheritance, or clearing a rental property, here's how to approach it.

Planning the Cleanout

Before You Start

• Walk through the entire property and assess the scope
• Identify valuable items, sentimental pieces, and donations
• Check for hazardous materials (old paint, chemicals, asbestos in older homes)
• Estimate the number of dumpster loads you'll need

Create Three Zones

• Keep — items of value or sentiment
• Donate — items in good condition for charity
• Dumpster — everything else

Dumpster Size for Estate Cleanouts

For a typical 3-bedroom home: 20-yard dumpster ($400), often 2-3 loads.

For smaller homes or condos: One 15-yard ($350) or 20-yard ($400) may suffice.

We offer seamless swap-outs — when one dumpster is full, we swap it for an empty one so you can keep working.

Tips for a Smooth Estate Cleanout

• Start with the biggest items — furniture, appliances, mattresses
• Work room by room rather than picking through the whole house
• Keep a donation box in each room for items too good to trash
• Take breaks — estate cleanouts can be emotionally draining
• Hire help if needed — this is physical work

Cost Estimate (3-bedroom estate)

• 2-3 dumpster loads at $400 each: $800-1,200
• Weight charges (per load): $400-800
• Total: $1,600-$3,000

This is typically far less than hiring a junk removal service, which can charge $5,000-$10,000 for a full estate.

Ready to start? Call (978) 375-2272.