Roll-off container

Definition

An open-top steel container delivered and collected by a truck that rolls it off rails onto the ground. Sized by internal volume in cubic yards, typically 10 to 40.

What else to know about roll-off container

The name describes the delivery mechanism, not the box. "Dumpster" in everyday American speech usually means a roll-off when someone is renting one for a project, and a front-load bin when it is behind a business.

Related terms

  • Front-load bin — The 2 to 8 cubic yard bin with a plastic lid that a truck lifts over its cab. Rented monthly for ongoing service, not by the project.
  • Cubic yard — 27 cubic feet — a cube three feet on each side. The unit roll-off containers are sold in, and it measures volume only, never weight.