Industry data
How much does it cost to start
a waste hauling business?
Breakdown of startup costs for dumpster rental and waste hauling: trucks, dumpsters, insurance, permits, software, and working capital. Plan your investment and timeline to profitability.
Startup cost calculator
Adjust the sliders to estimate your total startup investment. Use presets for quick scenarios.
Trucks$325,000
Dumpsters & containers$115,000
Insurance & permits (year 1)$27,500
Software & tech$15,000
Working capital$125,000
Estimated total$607,500
Dumpster rental typically $300k–$500k; full hauling $450k–$750k. Plan 3–6 months of runway for working capital.
| Category | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trucks | $200,000 – $450,000 | 1–2 roll-off trucks or frontload/rearload vehicles. New vs used, size, and specs affect cost. |
| Dumpsters & Containers | $80,000 – $150,000 | Initial inventory: 10–20 roll-off containers, or commercial/residential bins for hauling. |
| Insurance & Permits | $15,000 – $40,000/year | Liability, workers comp, auto. Permits vary by state and waste type. |
| Software & Tech | $5,000 – $50,000 | Dispatch, routing, billing. TrashLab and similar platforms reduce manual work from day one. |
| Working Capital | $50,000 – $200,000 | Fuel, payroll, disposal fees before revenue ramps. Plan 3–6 months of runway. |
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