Dumpster Today Franchise FAQs

What is a Franchise?

A franchise, in its simplest definition, is a business opportunity that allows the franchisee (possibly you) to start a business by legally using someone else’s (the franchisor’s) existing business model, expertise, ideas, processes and success strategies in a specific territory or area. 

What is a Franchisor?

A franchisor is a person or company that grants a license to a third party (possibly you) for the conducting of a business under the franchisor’s marks using its existing business model, expertise, ideas, processes and success strategies.

What is a Franchisee?

A franchisee is a small business owner who operates a franchise. The franchisee has purchased the right to use an existing business’s trademarks, associated brands, and other proprietary knowledge to market and sell the same brand, and uphold the same standards as the first business, in a specific territory or area. 

How do Franchises work?

Generally, it involves the owner of a business (known as the franchisor) licensing to a third party (known as the franchisee) the right to operate a business or distribute goods and/or services using the franchisor’s business name and systems (which varies depending on the franchisor) for an agreed period of time, in a specific territory or area. 

What is a royalty fee?

Royalties are monthly payments from the franchisee to the franchisor for the use of the brand, the business model and ongoing support. Franchisors collect fees from all of the locations licensed to use their business model and brand, using those payments to create products, marketing campaigns, pay administrative employees, research and development in order to grow the brand and the systems.

How much are royalties?

Just 7%—and that covers ongoing access to our systems, support, and brand strength.

How much does a territory cost?

A single territory with a population up to 1,500,000 is only $45,000.00. Additional areas and/or larger populations can be purchased at the time usually for a discounted amount.

What do I get for my upfront franchise fee?

You get a 100% exclusive and protected territory with a population of 1,500,000 (est.) residents and 100,000 + homeowners (est.), the training and all the systems and processes required to succeed. But it doesn’t stop there. You also get access to our experienced team with ongoing support and consultancy in the management, advertising options, and overall growth of your location(s) – along with access to all the equipment needed and designed by us.

Can I buy one location now and then buy another later?

Yes, but keep in mind territories are selling every day. If you think you might want to own more territory and be a larger franchisee you might want to do it up front and sign a Multi-Unit Development Agreement (MUDA)

Can I buy multiple territories?

Yes! You can own more than one territory. Dumpster Today has designed a system that is perfect for any size of business. From small Mom & Pop style ownership to multiple franchises or even regional area franchise opportunities, Dumpster Today has streamlined the processes allowing for less employees, larger areas, and higher revenue while still maintaining a great work-life benefit.

When is the best time to buy a business?

The best time to buy a business is when you’re ready to take control of your income and build long-term wealth—and for many, that time is right now.  Opportunities don’t wait. Every day you delay is a day you’re not building equity, gaining customers, and investing in your future. Whether you’re looking to create a new revenue stream or expand on what you already do, owning your own business gives you the freedom and financial potential most people only dream about.

Can I sell my business if I want to?

Yes! You own your business, not the franchisor. You can sell your business at any time. In fact, franchises are often easier to sell than stand-alone businesses, because the Franchisor or another franchisee who is already familiar with the business and system might be willing to pay top dollar immediately for it.

Will my business be worth more because it’s a franchise?

Studies have shown that franchise owners tend to get higher prices for their franchise businesses when they sell.

Is it hard to sell a franchise?

Selling an operating franchise has a higher success rate than selling an independent business because most buyers place a high value on the support provided by the franchisors.

How much can I expect to make?

We can’t guarantee profit or success, but you will likely start earning money your first month in business, often even your first week in business or first day.

How much capital do I need to get started?

The average startup cost for a new territory with Dumpster Today is between $75,000 and $150,000. This covers franchise fee, down payments on equipment, training cost, down payment on a lease of new office space, and your first few months of advertising, payroll, etc.

Is financing available?

YES! Dumpster Today has several financing companies that will lend or lease the needed equipment. Dumpster Today is also SBA approved franchise. Many times an SBA loan is the way to go because the SBA will lend will lend for both the assets (truck, dumpster, computer, etc.) and sometimes operation and starting cost and/or fees as well.

Can I use my 401K to get started?

YES! In most cases you can borrow from your 401K to get your new franchise started. This is a great question for your CPA.

How long is training?

New Franchise training consists of about 10 days. This is 3-5 days (1 week) at Dumpster Today’s Corp. Headquarters in Anderson, SC and 3-5 days (1 week) right in your new territory. But it doesn’t stop there! Dumpster Today believes “When Your Green You Grow, and When Your Ripe, you Rot” so training is ongoing. Dumpster Today is consistently upgrading equipment and process along with working on RND (research and development) which greatly benefits franchisees. Dumpster Today also offers workshops and training at their yearly national conferences and phone support almost every day of the year.

How much do dumpsters cost?

Dumpsters can range from about $4,000 all the way up to $6,000 each. With Dumpster Today the costs stay near the low end because of our unique design, buying power and purchasing experience.

How much do trucks cost?

A traditional roll-off truck costs between $165,000 – $195,000 but because Dumpster Today builds their Neighborhood Friendly truck right in their Anderson, SC corporate location and has fleet pricing, brand new trucks are usually on lower end or even less than the $165,000 quoted above.

Are there any additional royalties or marketing fees?

Yes, Dumpster Today also has a marketing/Brand fee. These funds are used to help build and grow the brand but it’s only 1%.

How much liquid capital will I need to maintain to cover the franchise until it breaks even?

We recommend you have at least 3-6 months of expenditures available to ensure your success. This includes payroll, truck payments (if you have one), insurance payments, dumpster payments (if you have any), fuel, marketing, etc… Even though you might not need all of this because you will likely start earning money your first month, we still recommend it so you can experience great growth and really build your business in the first 3-6 months.

Can anyone drive the truck?

YES, well anyone with a license. Dumpster Today’s Neighborhood Friendly trucks do not require a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) so anyone with a regular driver’s license can drive them and deliver dumpsters as long as they meet your insurance providers’ requirements.

Do I need a special license to drive the trucks?

No! Dumpster Today’s Neighborhood Friendly trucks do not require a CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) so anyone with a regular driver’s license can drive them and deliver dumpsters.

How big will my territory be and how will I be protected?

Dumpster Today franchisees are awarded an exclusive territory that includes an entire city, supporting a population of up to 1,500,000 people.  Each territory is carefully mapped and protected, meaning no other franchisee can market or advertise, within your boundaries. This gives you full control of your market, ensuring that your time, energy, and investment go toward building your business.

Is my territory exclusive or protected?

Yes—Dumpster Today grants every franchisee a 100% protected and exclusive territory for marketing, sales, and residential service. 

Your assigned territory—defined by zip codes—is exclusively yours when it comes to residential customers. No other Dumpster Today franchisee is allowed to advertise, solicit, or deliver to residential clients within your protected area.   

We do allow for commercial service flexibility: if a franchisee lands a commercial account that operates across multiple territories, they are permitted to service that client—even outside their home territory. This policy is designed to protect your ability to grow locally while supporting long-term relationships with larger commercial customers.   

Bottom line: you control your market, with the freedom to grow, and the protection to thrive without unnecessary internal competition.

What are your transfer fees when I sell my franchise?

Dumpster Today charges a flat $12,500 transfer fee when a franchise is sold. 

This fee covers administrative support, legal documentation, and onboarding assistance for the new owner to ensure a smooth transition. Selling your franchise is a great way to realize the value you’ve built—and we’re here to help make that process seamless and compliant.

Does Dumpster Today have any competitive advantages?

Absolutely—Dumpster Today is built on competitive advantages that set our franchisees up for long-term success.

From our online booking system and fast delivery model to our branded, neighborhood-friendly equipment and dedicated call center support—we’ve simplified the dumpster rental business and made it scalable. Our franchisees also benefit from exclusive territories, full training and support, 100% equipment financing, and strong unit economics. 

These advantages aren’t just operational—they’re strategic. We’ve created a modern, customer-focused experience in an industry still full of outdated processes. 

If you’re ready to stop signing the back of the checks and start signing the front, connect with a Dumpster Today Franchise Sales Professional today and learn how you can own a smarter, stronger business. 

How long does it take for a business to make money and become profitable?

Profitability timelines can vary based on market size, effort, and execution—but most Dumpster Today franchisees begin generating revenue within their first 30 days of operation. 

Because our business model is designed for low overhead and fast ramp-up, many franchisees see early momentum and are able to cover expenses quickly. With smart marketing, consistent service, and focus on sales, it’s not uncommon for owners to become profitable within their first 6–12 months. 

We provide the training, tools, and support to help you hit the ground running—and build a business that grows stronger every month.

What is a “Neighborhood Friendly Dumpster”?

A Neighborhood Friendly Dumpster is what sets Dumpster Today apart—it’s our signature, low-profile, clean, and compact roll-off container designed specifically for residential and light commercial use. 

Unlike traditional industrial dumpsters, ours fit neatly in a single parking space, have easy walk-in access through rear doors, and are delivered using medium-duty trucks that are easier on driveways and landscaping. They’re clean, well-maintained, and branded—so they look professional and feel like part of the neighborhood, not an eyesore.

It’s a smarter, cleaner, and more respectful approach to waste removal—and it’s exactly why customers love working with Dumpster Today.

What is a “Neighborhood Friendly Truck”?

A Neighborhood Friendly Truck is a medium-duty vehicle specifically selected to deliver dumpsters with precision, care, and minimal impact—perfect for residential areas.

Unlike heavy commercial roll-off trucks, our trucks are smaller, quieter, and easier to maneuver in tight spaces like driveways, cul-de-sacs, and gated communities. They’re less likely to damage pavement or landscaping and are operated by trained professionals who prioritize safety and customer satisfaction.

This “neighborhood-friendly” approach allows Dumpster Today to deliver a professional, polished experience that’s better for homeowners—and better for your brand.

What is a MUDA?

MUDA is an acronym for Multi-Unit Development Agreement. MUDA’s are used when a franchise owner knows they want to develop a larger city or own multiple cities. Some franchisees do this over a period of time and some elect to do it all at once.

Can I buy one location now and then buy another later?

Yes, but keep in mind territories are selling every day. If you think you might want to own more territory and be a larger franchisee you might want to do it up front and sign a Multi-Unit Development Agreement (MUDA) 

Is financing available?

YES! Dumpster Today has several financing companies that will lend or lease the needed equipment. Dumpster Today is also SBA approved franchise. Many times, an SBA loan is the way to go because the SBA will lend for both the assets (truck, dumpster, computer, etc.) and sometimes operation and starting cost and/or fees as well. 

How much liquid capital will I need to maintain to cover the franchise until it breaks even?

We recommend you have at least 3-6 months of expenditures available to ensure your success. This includes payroll, truck payments (if you have one), insurance payments, dumpster payments (if you have any), fuel, marketing, etc.… Even though you might not need all of this because you will likely start earning money your first month, we still recommend it so you can experience great growth and really build your business in the first 3-6 months.