Load Weight Estimation: Avoid Overfilled Dumpsters with Refuse Fab

When it comes to waste management, overloaded dumpsters can lead to extra fees, equipment damage, and
even safety risks. That’s why estimating load weights is vital for anyone managing roll-off containers,
dumpsters, or garbage trucks. At Refuse Fab, we specialize in heavy-duty refuse equipment and dumpster
refurbishment to keep your operations running smoothly—even when handling different types of waste like
roofing shingles and cardboard.

Why Accurate Load Weight Matters

1. Safety: Overfilled or unbalanced dumpsters can topple during pickup, risking injuries and property
   damage.
2. Compliance: Many states and municipalities issue fines for overloaded containers.
3. Equipment Longevity: Prevent unnecessary strain on hydraulic systems and refuse truck components
   by staying within load limits.
4. Cost Savings: Overloading can result in overweight fees at landfills or transfer stations, cutting into your
   bottom line.

Comparing Shingles vs. Cardboard

1. Roofing Shingles
   • Heavier Material: Roofing shingles are notoriously dense. A single square (about 100 square feet) of asphalt shingles can weigh between 200 to 350 pounds—or more for heavier-grade materials.
   • Tight Packing: Shingles take less space but add substantial weight, quickly pushing a dumpster toward its capacity.
   • Moisture Absorption: If shingles get wet, the load weight can increase significantly, leading to potential overloading.
2. Cardboard
   • Lighter Material: Cardboard is comparatively light. A cubic yard of compacted cardboard averages
     around 50 to 100 pounds.
   • Volume Considerations: Cardboard typically takes up more space. Although large loads can look
     overflowing, they may not exceed weight limits as quickly as shingles.
   • Recyclable: Cardboard is often recycled, meaning it can potentially be diverted from roll-off containers
     for cost savings and environmental benefits.

Strategies for Proper Load Weight Estimation

1. Know Your Container’s Capacity
   Each roll-off container or dumpster has a designated maximum weight limit. Be sure to match the
   container size (10-yard, 20-yard, 30-yard, etc.) with the estimated load.
2. Use Weight Calculators
   Online tools and waste management calculators help estimate the weight of various
   materials—especially valuable when you’re loading dense materials like shingles.
3. Segregate Materials
   If you’re combining light materials (cardboard) with heavy ones (shingles), separate them within the same dumpster or use multiple containers. This simplifies load assessment and prevents accidental overloading.
4. Regular Equipment Checks
   Keep your refuse trucks and dumpsters in top condition by scheduling dumpster repair, welding and
   fabricationupdates, and maintenance on hydraulic systems. An unmaintained truck can struggle to lift
   even a legal load.

How Refuse Fab Helps

At Refuse Fab, we specialize in refuse truck fabrication, dumpster refurbishment, and custom metal
solutions for the waste industry. Our heavy-duty refuse equipment is designed to handle everything from roofing debris to industrial cardboard loads without compromising safety or performance.

• Customized Dumpster Builds: Ensure your container sizes and weight capacities align with your typical
  job requirements.
• Expert Repairs & Upgrades: From structural reinforcements to new hydraulic components, RefuseFab
  helps extend the life of your equipment.
• Waste Management Expertise: Our team offers guidance on load distribution, container best practices,
  and compliance to help you avoid fines and downtime.

Conclusion

Accurate estimating load weights—especially when handling vastly different materials like shingles and
cardboard—helps you avoid overfilled dumpsters, costly penalties, and equipment damage. With solutions from Refuse Fab, you can count on robust, reliable roll-off containers and refuse trucks that stand up to heavy loads while maintaining safe, efficient operations. Ready to optimize your waste management?
Get in touch with Refuse Fab for custom dumpster fabrication, repair services, and expert tips to keep your loads within safe limits—every time.