A Brief Look at the Dumpster

DVC • January 27, 2023

Did you know DVC delivers and picks up roll-off dumpsters? We have been doing this for over 30 years! Roll-off dumpsters can be found almost anywhere, from job sites to residences. They make storing and collecting waste easy due to their size and shape and provide a central location for disposal. We know the dumpster has been around for a long time, but who invented it?

Dempster Invents the Dumpster


Interestingly, the name of the man who invented it and the word dumpster is similar. George Dempster invented the dumpster as a solution to a growing waste issue. He owned a construction business and knew first-hand the logistics of hauling waste. Applying his knowledge of heavy machinery, Dempster designed and created the Dempster Dumpster in 1935 in Knoxville, Tennessee. In 1937, Nashville, Tennessee, became the first city to adopt the Dempster Dumpster for trash disposal.

The Dumpster Goes Public


Dempster intended to use the dumpster solely for his construction projects. He even trademarked the name “Dempster Dumpster.” However, word got out about his invention and soon his company, Dempster Brothers, Inc., was inundated with orders. The Dempster Dumpster became so profitable that Dempster closed his construction business to focus on manufacturing it. Before the Dempster Dumpster, businesses relied on a crew of sanitation workers shoveling waste onto a flatbed truck and unloading by hand at a landfill. This method was inefficient and unsanitary. Now, all that was needed was one person to pick up the dumpster and haul it away.

From Dumpsters to Garbage Trucks


Dempster improved the initial model by replacing the pulleys and cables with hydraulic lifting using chains and pivot arms. After World War II, Dempster created the Dempster Kolector. It was a single-axle dumping container with ten cubic yards of volume. From there, Dempster created the Dempster-Dumpmaster in the 1950s. It would become the modern garbage truck, with a front-loading design that allowed truck drivers to empty multiple containers on one trip.

Dempster’s inventions, starting with the Dempster Dumpster, revolutionized waste collection. He created a system that reduced the labor needed for collecting waste and made the process more sanitary. The delivery and pick-up of dumpsters expanded the transportation industry as well. At DVC, we have
trucks to handle your roll-off dumpster needs. Give us a call to schedule your next roll-off dumpster!

By Delaware Valley Contractors • November 6, 2026
The King Frost Parade was extra spooky this year because it was held on Halloween. The streets of downtown Hamburg, PA, came alive with this annual tradition that has been captivating locals for over sixty years. With over 10,000 spectators in attendance, this event is more than just a parade—it's a celebration of community and the arrival of fall. The day began with the King Frost’s Food and Craft Festival featuring amazing craft vendors, music, and food followed by the parade. The Delaware Valley Contractor’s (DVC) team brought their A-game with an impressive lineup of vehicles: a roll-off truck, two service vehicles, and a low boy. They also had a mini-excavator on the roll-off truck and a loader on the low boy from affiliate Empire Services . However, the star of the show was King Frost himself. The parade boasted marching bands, traditional floats, fire departments, and scary entries, all weaving through the heart of Hamburg. Our theme was “spooky,” including cobwebs, the Scream mask, and spiders. The roll-off truck, driven by Stew Rivers (DVC), featured a mini-excavator with our mischievous skeleton crew. They dressed up this year with one wearing a Philadelphia Eagles shirt and the other an Elk Environmental Services (an Empire Group affiliate) work shirt. The first service truck was driven by Jason Moffett (DVC), the second service truck was driven by Terry Wentzel (DVC), and the low boy truck was driven by Eric Roush (Empire Services). Our walkers were dressed in fun costumes, including a dog dressed as Stitch, as they handed out candy to the excited crowd. A big thank you to everyone who helped make this event special: Terry Wentzel & Family Stew Rivers Eric & Kelly Roush Jason Moffett Amber Wagner Chris Gring Apologies if anyone was missed! We had a great time and can’t wait until next year's parade!
By Delaware Valley Contractors • October 26, 2026
At Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC), we’re known for transportation and repair services, but we also offer dumpster rentals . From busy construction sites to school improvement projects, having a reliable waste management solution can make a significant difference in keeping a project organized, safe, and on schedule. Whether you’re a contractor managing construction debris or a charitable organization, DVC offers practical, affordable dumpster solutions to keep your project or event moving forward. Why Do Contractors Need Dumpster Rentals?  Construction and renovation projects generate waste. Without a designated place to collect it, debris can quickly clutter a job site, create safety concerns, and slow down progress. That’s where a roll-off dumpster comes in. A conveniently delivered dumpster gives crews a central location to dispose of construction and demolition (C&D) debris and other approved materials. Instead of worrying about scattered waste or coordinating multiple trips to remove it, contractors can focus on the work at hand. At Delaware Valley Contractors, we understand that every job site has different needs. Our dumpster rental services provide a convenient way to collect waste in a container designed for efficient delivery and pickup. The benefits include: A more organized job site: Keep debris in one designated location throughout the work area. Improved site safety: Reduce clutter and keep walkways and work areas more accessible. Convenient delivery and pickup: Let experienced drivers handle transporting your dumpster. Practical, affordable waste solutions: Find a container solution that supports your project's needs and timeline. With efficient and safe waste management, your crew can spend less time dealing with debris and more time getting the job done. Dumpster Rentals for Construction, Renovation, and More Not every project produces the same type or amount of waste. That’s why having different dumpster sizes makes planning a cleanup or construction job easy. DVC offers dumpsters in various sizes to support a range of project requirements. Whether you need a roll-off container for construction and demolition debris or a dumpster for other approved materials, our team can help you identify a practical solution. Our drivers have delivered and picked up DVC dumpsters at local educational facilities, including a local university and a high school. These projects demonstrate how dependable container delivery and pickup can support work in a variety of settings. From renovations to construction projects, Delaware Valley Contractors is ready to simplify waste transportation so your project can stay on track.
By Delaware Valley Contractors • October 12, 2026
Empire Group’s 31st Annual Golf Classic brought customers, colleagues, and friends together for a memorable day of golf and friendly competition on October 3rd at the historic Galen Hall Golf Club in Wernersville, PA. We truly appreciate all the players who participated in our highly anticipated event. Despite a chilly start, 92 golfers arrived ready to hit the course for an 8 a.m. shotgun start. The crisp fall weather set the stage for a fantastic day of great shots and friendly rivalries. After the final putt dropped, players gathered for a large buffet lunch followed by the tournament’s award ceremony and raffle. It was fun to see the winners select their prizes! At Empire Group, we value the relationships we’ve built with our customers and partners over the years. Events like the Annual Golf Classic are a wonderful opportunity to step away from the day-to-day, reconnect with familiar faces, and strengthen partnerships.
By Delaware Valley Contractors • September 28, 2026
It’s hard to believe fall is here. Temperatures have dropped, and the leaves are starting to change. For truck drivers, that means getting an up-close look at how autumn transforms the landscape. Long stretches of highway showcase brilliant shades of red, orange, yellow, and gold, making familiar routes feel a little different. For drivers traveling throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic region, plenty of roads that could claim the title of “most scenic.” Yet, there are too many to list. However, a few stand out for their beautiful fall landscapes and changing colors. At Delaware Valley Contractors, we know that the road is an important part of getting the job done. From transporting equipment and materials to supporting construction projects throughout the region, reliable trucking keeps projects moving. As we head into the fall season, let’s look at four scenic routes worth knowing.
By Delaware Valley Contractors • September 14, 2026
With fall around the corner, Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC) is reflecting on the past few months of successful demolition and heavy equipment transportation projects and events. From a well-earned appreciation to transporting heavy machinery, we’ve been busy providing the strategic solutions to our clients and celebrating our team. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights from over the summer.
By Delaware Valley Contractors • August 31, 2026
The right truck needs to arrive at the right location, at the right time, with the right load and enough information to complete the delivery safely and efficiently. When those details aren't coordinated, a material delivery can quickly become a source of delays, additional costs, and unnecessary headaches. For contractors and developers in Reading, PA, Berks County, and the tri-state area, thoughtful delivery planning can help keep crews productive and construction schedules on track. Here's what you should consider before scheduling your next material delivery. 1. Know Exactly What You're Transporting Before contacting a trucking company, have a clear understanding of the materials being moved. Different materials can require different transportation solutions. The type, size, weight, quantity, and configuration of the load can all affect which truck is appropriate. Before scheduling, be prepared to provide details such as: What material is being transported Approximate quantity or load size Estimated weight Dimensions, when applicable Where the material is being picked up Where it needs to be delivered Any special handling or unloading considerations The more accurate the information, the easier it is for your trucking provider to recommend an appropriate transportation solution. 2. Choose the Right Truck for the Job One of the most important decisions is choosing the right vehicle for the load and jobsite. A truck that works well for one construction project may not be the best choice for another. Contractors should consider the characteristics of both the material and the delivery location. For example, think about: Load size and weight Available access to the jobsite Space for maneuvering Where the truck will need to stop How materials will be unloaded Whether multiple loads are required Delaware Valley Contractors offers an array of vehicles to accommodate different transportation needs, helping contractors and developers select a solution that fits the project rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. 3. Confirm the Pickup Location Before scheduling a delivery, make sure the pickup location is clearly identified. Provide the trucking company with the correct address and any useful information about the pickup point. If the material is coming from a supplier, confirm that the supplier knows when the truck is expected. It's also worth confirming: Pickup hours Loading procedures Site access Contact information Whether the material will be ready when the truck arrives A truck arriving before the material is ready can create unnecessary downtime for everyone involved. 4. Make Sure the Jobsite Is Ready The delivery location deserves just as much attention as the pickup location. Before the truck arrives, ask whether the jobsite can safely and practically accommodate the delivery vehicle. Consider: Entrance and exit routes Road conditions Available space Overhead or physical obstructions Active construction areas Other vehicles or equipment Where materials should be placed Who will direct the driver upon arrival? Construction sites change constantly. A delivery route that worked several weeks ago may look completely different today. If site conditions have changed, communicate those changes immediately to your trucking provider. 5. Schedule Around the Construction Crew Timing matters. A delivery should be coordinated with the people who will receive, unload, stage, or use the materials. If the truck arrives while the crew is unavailable, the delivery may be delayed even though the truck arrived on time. Before scheduling, determine: When does the jobsite need the material? Then work backward to account for pickup, transportation, site access, unloading, and any other factors that could affect the schedule. Good coordination can help reduce waiting time and keep the project moving. 6. Identify the Jobsite Contact There should be someone available to coordinate the delivery when the truck arrives. Provide the trucking company with the appropriate contact person's name and phone number. That person should know the delivery is coming and understand where the material needs to go. This becomes especially important on larger or active construction sites where multiple crews, subcontractors, and deliveries may be operating simultaneously. Having a designated contact can help the driver get the information needed without unnecessary delays. Reliable Construction Transportation in Reading, PA and Region A successful material delivery starts well before a truck arrives at the jobsite. For contractors and developers, Delaware Valley Contractors provides full-service trucking with an array of vehicles designed to meet a variety of transportation needs. We understand that every construction project is different. That's why having a versatile trucking resource can make it easier to coordinate material transportation as project needs change. Whether you're planning a single delivery or managing transportation for an ongoing construction project, the right preparation and the right trucking partner can help keep materials—and your project—moving. Need transportation for an upcoming construction project? Contact Delaware Valley Contractors to discuss your material delivery needs and determine the right trucking solution for your job.
By Delaware Valley Contractors • August 17, 2026
When heavy equipment goes down, every hour of downtime can affect a project’s schedule and bottom line. For contractors and equipment owners, a major component failure can quickly turn into a major repair bill—but replacement isn’t always the only solution. Recently, Delaware Valley Contractors’ (DVC) shop team put that philosophy into action when a customer’s John Deere 544K wheel loader suffered a catastrophic pin failure in the front bucket and lift arm assembly. The damage was extensive. The front end of the loader was twisted and significantly out of alignment, leaving the machine in need of major repairs. Replacing the damaged components with new or used parts was estimated to cost more than $20,000 before labor. Rather than automatically replacing the entire assembly, DVC technicians took a closer look at what could be salvaged and repaired. Precision Repairs That Put Equipment Back to Work Heavy equipment repair requires more than welding damaged metal back together. Structural components must be properly evaluated, aligned, reinforced, and repaired to help ensure the finished assembly performs as intended. DVC’s technicians began by carefully assessing the damaged components. Salvageable parts were straightened using a 100-ton press, helping restore the components before additional repair work began. The bent lift arm required a more extensive solution. Technicians precisely cut above the damaged area, and a matching section from another arm was measured, fitted, and aligned using a test bar to ensure both arms remained true and equal in length throughout the repair. Maintaining proper alignment was critical to completing the repair correctly and preventing additional issues when the loader was reassembled.
By Delaware Valley Contractors • July 31, 2026
From crossing busy rivers to spanning vast bays, bridges are more than transportation routes; they are engineering achievements that connect communities, strengthen commerce, and keep people and goods moving safely. Every day, millions of drivers travel across bridges without realizing the incredible planning, innovation, and construction expertise required to build them. At Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC), we appreciate the craftsmanship and precision that go into every infrastructure project. While our team specializes in heavy hauling and transportation solutions that support major construction projects throughout the region, we also recognize the remarkable engineering that makes modern transportation possible. Here are five extraordinary bridges that have transformed travel and continue to inspire engineers and contractors alike.
By Delaware Valley Contractors • July 20, 2026
Summer is heating up for our drivers. Delaware Valley Contractors (DVC) has provided transportation for a variety of demolition and excavation projects. Each required a strategic solution to achieve success. Let’s take a look at some project highlights from the past few months.
By Delaware Valley Contractors • June 29, 2026
Stay Safe This Independence Day: A Guide for Professional Drivers