Six things behind every quote
- Container size
- Bigger boxes mean more hauling and more tipping at the landfill. Getting the size right usually saves more than haggling over it.
- Tons allowed
- The quote covers a certain weight. Anything heavier is billed once the load crosses the scale, which is why shingles and concrete change the total.
- Days on site
- Each rental covers a stated stretch of days, and keeping the container past it usually adds a daily fee.
- What's in it
- Clean concrete, roofing, brush and mixed household junk may each go to a different disposal site, so each can be priced on its own terms.
- Your address
- How far the truck drives from the hauler's base and to the disposal site plays into the quote; outlying addresses can cost more.
- Street placement
- A container on a South Bend street or alley needs the city's occupancy permit, filed by a bonded company, and that may show up on the bill.
Put these to every company you call
What does the quoted price cover?
Drop-off, haul-away, the number of days and the tons allowed. Get each one stated.
Which extras could appear later?
Overweight fees, extra days, mattresses or appliances, and a fee if the driver arrives and can't reach the spot you picked.
How do extensions work?
Find out before your pickup date how to keep it longer, and what that adds.
Keeping your own bill down
Keep heavy material separate from bulky junk, sell or give away what still works, flatten boxes and take furniture apart so it packs tight, and have the load staged before the container arrives so no rental days sit idle. The size guide helps you avoid paying for space you won't fill.
Book a roll-off for your project
Describe what you're getting rid of. An independent local roll-off company will suggest a container, offer delivery dates and give you its price.
Use this number to rent a roll-off or a portable toilet. South Bend garbage, recycling and bulk pickup questions go to 311.
Call hours: Monday to Saturday 8am–8pm, Sunday 8am–1pm (South Bend time)
Your call may be recorded; see the referral disclosure.