Hauling your junk, trash, or debris to the landfill isn't something that most people do every day, and for good reason.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe smell alone is enough to deter most people from attempting to tackle the landfill themselves, but in a desperate pinch, you may find yourself contemplating whether or not hauling your trash to the landfill yourself is the most economical option.
\r\n
We'll go over the process, average costs, and alternative options so that you can make the best, most informed decision for your disposal project.
\r\n\r\nThe first thing you'll need to do if you want to haul your junk to the landfill yourself is make sure that you have a vehicle capable of fitting all your junk in one trip. Once that's confirmed, you'll need to make sure all junk is secure and not at risk of flying out of the vehicle during transport.
\r\n\r\nDepending on where you live and when you go, there will likely be a line of cars waiting to access the landfill. In large cities, it's not uncommon to wait in line at the landfill, sometimes hours in certain cities.
\r\n\r\nBefore you enter, your car will be weighed so that they'll know how much to charge you when you leave. You'll then be directed to a dumping location—typically towards the top of the trash pile—where you will be able to unload your garbage and debris.
\r\n\r\nBecause so many others are dumping all kinds of different waste in the same area, it's important to be very careful when driving and walking at a landfill site. There are plenty of hazards that could cause you to puncture a tire or damage your car in other ways, so you'll want to drive slow and make sure you're keeping your eyes peeled for any sharp objects.
\r\n\r\nOnce you've emptied your vehicle of waste, you'll drive to the exit where you will be weighed again to determine the weight of waste you've dumped so you can be charged accordingly.
\r\n\r\nLandfill fees vary, but the average cost of landfill fees across the U.S. is around $40-$60 per ton—or around $15-$30 per cubic yard for relatively small loads—but landfill fees aren't the only cost to consider.
\r\n\r\nIt's also important to consider the cost of fuel and your time when deciding whether or not to haul your items to a landfill yourself. When gas prices are high, the cost of driving to and from the landfill can add up quicker than you'd expect. Depending on how you value your time, this could influence your decision as well.
\r\n\r\nThe labor of loading your trash into the vehicle or trailer, waiting in line for your car to be weighed, unloading it once you're at the landfill, waiting in line again to exit, and then cleaning your truck or trailer afterwards can easily cost you a full working day or more, not to mention if your car incurs any damage during drop-off.
\r\n\r\nWhen you consider all these factors, it might make more sense to spend a little more money for a significantly more convenient, efficient, and safe disposal option.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"Junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/landfill-help.png\")
\r\nThere are two common alternatives for large disposal projects that can save you quite a bit of time and back-breaking labor:
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal crew is definitely the most convenient method of the two for most projects because it requires zero heavy lifting or loading on your part.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies send a crew, usually made up of two workers, to come to your location and load all your unwanted items into their truck or trailer. It's as simple as requesting quotes from local companies and showing them what to take once they've arrived. After they've loaded your items, they'll provide you with an invoice that you can either pay on the spot or you can call into their office and pay over the phone.
\r\n\r\nWhile usually slightly more expensive than renting a dumpster, the convenience often outweighs the cost for many and has quickly become one of the most popular methods for large and bulky waste disposal.
\r\n\r\nIf you have seven or more cubic yards worth of waste to get rid of, renting a dumpster might make more sense for you. Renting a dumpster is a simple process that involves contacting a dumpster rental company, choosing a container size, scheduling it to be dropped off at your property, filling it up, and having it hauled away.
\r\n\r\nRoll-off containers have door(s) that swing open, making loading very easy by being able to walk in any large or heavy items. Trailer dumpsters and roll-off bins both feature an open top so that you can easily throw your trash inside without having to worry about navigating a lid. 10 yard dumpsters are one of the most popular sizes for residential projects because they can hold a significant amount of waste for an affordable price, costing between $250-$450 on average.
\r\n\r\nWhen you want to gather more information about these types of services in your area, the best thing to do is to contact different companies and compare quotes. Hometown makes it easy to get free quotes with our single quote-request form. By entering your zip code and answering a few quick questions about your disposal needs, you'll be shown qualified companies in your area that are licensed, local, and eager to earn your business.
\r\n\r\nWhen comparing quotes, also take into consideration the type of customer service you're given, their availability, and reviews left by other verified customers. Getting quotes from both junk removal and dumpster rental companies in your area will help give you a better idea of what average prices are near you and which service will best fit your budget and timeline.
\r\n\r\nWhen you have large amounts of trash, junk, or debris to get rid of, you may be considering hauling your trash to the landfill yourself. Read about the process, average costs, and alternative options so that you can make the best, most informed decision for your disposal project.
\r\n","changed":"2025-05-01T23:06:53+00:00"},{"id":"cd08be08-8dbc-5cfa-be0e-a365d16b10e2","title":"Complete Home Cleanout Checklist","url":"/blog/complete-home-cleanout-checklist","image":{"path":"/static/2b14ba8ddcfea2fd21815cddfcd0bc03/messy-house.jpg","alt":"Couple cleaning up messy living room"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"7ce68dc2-095e-5221-a253-7b8b847933db","name":"House Cleanout","slug":"House-Cleanout"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Cleaning out the junk and clutter from your home isn't something that has to be saved for the spring; any time is a good time to regain control and refresh your living space.
\r\n\r\nThe idea of cleaning out out a home or property top to bottom can be overwhelming to even think about, let alone follow through with. That's why we've put together this complete home cleanout checklist to help you organize an easy-to-follow strategy for guaranteed results. Our home cleanout guide will break down every part of the home and the most efficient methods to ensure a successful home cleanout.
\r\n\r\n![\"Complete](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/home-cleanout-checklist-infographic_1.jpg\")
\r\nThe first thing you should do when tackling a whole home cleanout is to map out a plan of attack.
\r\n\r\nFirst determine what your goal for this cleanout is. Are you in charge of an estate or eviction cleanout and need to get rid of every single item throughout the entire house? Are you preparing to move and want to get rid of as much as possible before packing up your belongings? Has it been years since you've gone through your home and decluttered items you rarely use? Knowing what your goal is and the type/amount of items you'd like to get rid of will help you plan for how you'll dispose of these items.
\r\n\r\nThe next thing you should do is create a schedule. Do you have a deadline that this project needs to be done by, or can you take your time and work on it whenever is convenient? Are you someone who likes to dedicate a whole week/weekend to see a project to its completion, or do you like to work in sections and tackle one area at a time with breaks in between? Having a rough idea of what you want your project schedule to look like will help you create a plan, which is critical for a successful home cleanout. If you have a hard time deciding where to start, create a map of your home and label each room with a rating of 1-5: 1 being the easiest to clean and 5 being the most difficult to clean.
\r\n\r\nBasements and attics used for storage of things that have piled up over the years are great contenders for a 5 rating, while smaller rooms that are used and organized often, like bathrooms, will be easier to clean out and can get a lower rating of 1. Create a list and order your rooms based on their difficulty level to help you decide which rooms to start with and which rooms to end with. You can either decide to tackle the most difficult rooms first and save the easy rooms for last, or vice versa. Whatever you find most motivating is the path you should take.
\r\n\r\nBefore you get started, you'll want to have a way to dispose of or organize the items you're removing. Do you plan on throwing everything away? Will you be donating or trying to sell some valuable or gently used items? Unless you plan on throwing everything out, you'll want to make sure you have boxes or bags to organize your items that can be donated or sold so that they aren't mistakenly mixed in with all the junk you plan on trashing.
\r\n\r\nUnorganized kitchen tools, expired pantry items, mismatched or chipped dishes, and messy cabinets can make a kitchen look and feel like a stressful, cluttered mess. Even the dirtiest kitchen cleanout can be completed with minimal stress and relative ease if a plan is established before you begin. The first thing you should do is determine what you want to get rid of. Are you getting rid of everything in the kitchen, or just the junk you no longer use? Maybe you're moving and you want to keep the basics and get rid of all the food. Whatever your goal is, establish it before diving in.
\r\n\r\nIf you're handling an estate cleanout, eviction, or are moving out, start by going through all cabinets and drawers and create three separate piles: one pile of items to keep, one to donate, and one to throw away. If you aren't moving and are just doing a basic kitchen cleanout, you can keep the items you're not getting rid of in the drawers and cabinets for now, but remove any items that can be donated, sold, or thrown away and place them into respective piles.
\r\n\r\nIf you need to get rid of one or more kitchen appliances, consider hiring a junk removal company to do the heavy lifting for you. In addition to appliances, they can also remove your bags or boxes of unwanted items throughout the house, allowing you to get rid of all your junk in one fell swoop. One step further, junk removal companies can even help with the aftermath of a kitchen remodel and any interior demolition that happens as a result. They can haul away any debris you have in addition to any appliances and furniture you need hauled away as well. Find local interior demolition contractors to help with your kitchen remodel by searching on Hometown Demolition.
\r\n\r\nOnce you've removed all the items you no longer want to keep, it's time to clean and organize the remaining items. If the kitchen is completely cleared of all items, cleaning should be generally straight forward, and we recommend working from top to bottom.
\r\n\r\nStart by dusting any fans or light fixtures and cabinets anchored on the top half of the kitchen. Then, clean bottom cabinets, drawers, or other storage areas. For your drawers and cabinets with food and items still in them, and the refrigerator, remove the items to clean the area they're stored in, and then be sure to place them back in their respective \"home\" in a neat and orderly fashion.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, you can clean the insides of your kitchen appliances, like microwaves, refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers if necessary. Once all the interiors of your kitchen have been cleaned, clean all the remaining surfaces in your kitchen, like the countertops, outsides of your appliances, and the floors.
\r\n\r\nIf you're taking breaks between the different areas of your home, you should find a disposal solution for your piles of garbage and junk right away so that you aren't living amongst the piles. Items that can be donated can be dropped off at Goodwill or The Salvation Army during business hours. Garbage can be placed in your trash bin, unless there is a very large amount of items to throw out. If it won't all fit in your garbage bin, you should consider renting a dumpster and tackling the rest of your home as soon as possible. Dumpster rentals are an affordable and efficient way to manage a home cleanout project and can take the stress out of figuring out the disposal aspect of your project.
\r\n\r\nCleaning out your living room can be handled in the same way that a kitchen cleanout is approached, but it will likely take you less time. Living rooms aren't typically rooms we use for storage and instead tend to be a less cluttered living space in comparison to kitchens, basements, and bedrooms. That said, if you have a large, old entertainment center with hundreds of DVDs, games, or other items, you'll certainly want to take the time to go through and organize these items and get rid of things that are no longer used.
\r\n\r\nOld furniture or technology can sometimes be sold, donated, or given away for free, but may need to be hauled away to a landfill if they are too worn to be salvaged. In this case, a dumpster rental or junk removal company is your best solution. Even if you have a truck that can haul it to the landfill yourself, you'll likely need to make several trips by the time you're done cleaning out your entire home. Some cities allow you to place large furniture items at the end of your driveway for pickup, but you have to pay for this service ahead of time and make arrangements with your trash pickup provider to avoid being fined.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nAs with every other room in your home, the first step to cleaning out a bedroom is to determine what your goals are and what needs to go. If it's been a while since you've cleaned out your bedroom (or your children's), there may be items stored in the back of closets or dressers from years ago. A good place to start in a bedroom is the closets. Not only are the closets where most of our clutter and unused items are stored, but once your closet is emptied and reorganized, you'll likely find that you have space to store the items that were previously shoved underneath the bed or scattered on top of dressers.
\r\n\r\nIf you store all of your clothes in your bedroom, consider separating your wardrobe based on seasons. If it's currently a warmer season and you have winter coats, jackets, and shoes taking up valuable space in your closet, consider boxing up your winter wardrobe and storing it elsewhere to make your closet more manageable and functional. Doing this will automatically require that you go through your closet twice a year to swap out your wardrobe, conveniently making it a bi-annual habit of sorting through your bedroom storage and helping you keep your closet under control.
\r\n\r\nWhen you're struggling with deciding what to keep and what to get rid of, consider when the last time it was that you used or wore the item in question. If it's been 6+ months, it's probably safe to donate or throw away.
\r\n\r\nBathrooms should be relatively easy to clean out as they tend to be smaller and the storage in bathrooms tends to be for items that we use regularly, if not daily. Take the same approach as you did with your kitchen cleanout and start with the top of the bathroom and work your way down to lower cabinets, drawers, and storage areas.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you're someone who enjoys accumulating cosmetics and has a hard time getting rid of these items and storage of these items has now become an issue, you should start your bathroom cleanout with these items.
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Many cosmetics have expiration dates, so be sure to check for dates on your makeup. Most makeup products shouldn't be kept for longer than 6-12 months. Keep in mind that toiletries or cosmetics of any kind should never be donated unless they are completely unused and unopened, so if you have half-used products that you'd like to get rid of, be sure to throw away the product and recycle the containers when possible.
\r\n\r\nFor the average homeowner, the attic is the least visited part of their house, making it an ideal breeding ground for dust or an undiagnosed mold or vermin infestation. This is why you should wear protective gear when sorting through your piled up boxes in the attic. An attic cleanout, more than any other space in the house, should be an area that you tackle with a partner. There are risks associated with climbing up and down attic stairs or a ladder, combined with the poor ventilation and heat risks of working in an attic.
\r\n\r\nWhen cleaning out an attic, the best strategy and is to start by either removing all items or moving all items to one end of the space so that you can go in and do some deep cleaning before working in the area. Sweep, dust, and vacuum the attic top to bottom before sorting through everything that is stored in there.
\r\n\r\nEven if you only use your attic for storage and don't plan on getting rid of anything, it's still important to periodically go through the items that are kept in there to ensure that there is no water or pest damage to the items you're storing in there. It's common for people to store family heirlooms or photographs in their basement or attic, and since these items are sentimental, you want to check on them often to ensure they're still in good shape.
\r\n\r\nIf you're removing everything from the attic, consider hiring a professional junk removal company to eliminate the risk of injury. Navigating ladders or attic stairs can be dangerous on its own, let alone with the added obstacle of removing and hauling boxes and other heavy items. Hiring a junk removal crew to clear our your attic will cut down the time it takes you to complete your project significantly.
\r\n\r\nCleaning out your basement will follow the same strategy as all other rooms: establishing a plan, sorting through the area in sections, and separating items into piles to keep, donate, and trash. Working on a large area, like a basement, in sections will help you stay on track and will make it less likely for you to get overwhelmed throughout the process.
\r\n\r\nIf your basement is unfinished, dusty, and full of cobwebs, we recommend taking the same approach as you would for an attic cleanout by being prepared with protective gear like gloves, boots, and masks for protection. If you have to remove everything and haul it up one or more flights of stairs, consider hiring a junk removal crew, or at the very least, recruiting help of your own. If you want to avoid handling this dirty job altogether, basement cleanout companies can assist you.
\r\n\r\nWhen reorganizing your belongings, keep like items together for easy access. For example, keep holiday decorations in one central location, family keepsakes in another, etc.
\r\n\r\nRead on:
\r\n\r\n![\"Messy](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/messy-garage.jpg\")
\r\nWhile accessing a garage typically doesn't require walking up and down flights of stairs, a similar approach should be taken to a garage cleanout as you would a basement cleanout. Garages can be a host for bugs and other pests and should be sorted through carefully. It's also common for garages to store different types of flammable or otherwise dangerous chemicals, like gasoline, fertilizers, oil, lighter fluid, paint, and other car fluids. It's also not uncommon for sharp or rusty metal to be found in garages, like nails, tools, and other metal surfaces.
\r\n\r\nUse caution and protection when sorting through your garage, but utilize the same strategies that you use throughout the rest of your home but removing items you no longer want or need, and then cleaning and organizing the remaining items, being sure to keep like items in the same area. You can organize your garage to have a section for lawn care items, an area for tools and equipment, and area for car items, and an area for toys and other leisure activities. If you want to avoid handling your dirty garage cleanout, garage cleanout services are a great option.
\r\n\r\nA well-landscaped home can be worth 5.5-13% or more than a comparable home without landscaping, so when you take on a full home cleanout, don't overlook your yard. The first step to cleaning up your yard is to have a disposal plan in place. Most yard waste like grass clippings, twigs, and weeds can be composted. If you don't have a place to compost your yard waste and have a lot of it, consider renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal company to haul away your collected yard waste for you.
\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to cleaning up your yard, start by collecting and bagging any litter that has blown into your yard. If you have lawn equipment, furniture, or toys, put them in their proper place. Next, you can scan the yard for any twigs, sticks, and branches and either bag them up or place them in a bucket that you can later use as kindling later. While you're scanning the yard for sticks, also keep your eyes peeled for any rocks or stones that are large enough to disrupt the mowing process.
\r\n\r\nFrom there, you should start weeding, either by hand or with the aid of a weed killer if the issue is widespread across your yard. Once the yard is cleaned up, spruce up your shrubs, bushes, and trees by trimming them when needed and giving them a nice shape. After all aspects of your yard have been manicured, top it off by mowing your yard and then using a leaf blower to clear off the driveway, sidewalk, and patio from any debris.
\r\n\r\nProfessional yard waste removal services are a great resource for people who would like assistance with the entire yard cleanup or simply a pile of yard waste debris. Although, in some cases, a yard waste dumpster rental that is loaded strictly with yard waste and no other junk is another great option if you don't mind loading the debris yourself and saving money to do so.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nThere are two options to consider when cleaning out a house: renting a dumpster and hiring a junk removal service If you're someone who wants to clean out their home but you struggle to find the time or motivation to get it done, hiring a professional house cleanout company to assist you could be the perfect solution. If you're someone that likes to cut costs, then a temporary dumpster rental may be the option you prefer.
\r\n\r\nIf you plan on going the DIY route rather than hiring a full-service junk removal company, hauling it all to the landfill yourself may not be a feasible or desirable option, let alone the most cost- and time-effective. Renting a dumpster is arguably the best way to manage all the garbage your home cleanout will produce. This is especially true when you know you'll need to get rid of large or bulky items like old appliances, electronics, light fixtures, furniture, etc.
\r\n\r\nThe convenience of having a dumpster on hand compared to having to haul individual truckloads to your local landfill yourself will have a significant impact on the time it takes you to complete your home cleanout project. For perspective, a 20 yard dumpster holds around 10-12 pickup truck loads' worth of items, not to mention you won't have to wait in line for potentially hours for your chance at damaging your vehicle or popping a tire at the landfill.
\r\n\r\nIf you'd rather have more help, junk removal services are the way to go. Experienced junk removal companies that offer home cleanout services have the ability to empty out a large home full of unwanted items, donate salvageable items to local charities, recycle items that are accepted in recycling projects, and dispose of the rest - all in a time-efficient manner.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies have the equipment and manpower to remove heavy items up and down flights of stairs and make it easy to get rid of all your unwanted junk so you can focus on cleaning and reorganizing the items you plan on keeping.
\r\n\r\nRegardless of which service you decide will work best for your project, you'll likely get the best price and the best service by working with a locally-owned and operated company. Hometown makes it easy to find local junk removal and dumpster rental companies that service your zip code. You can fill out our single quote request form to send to up to 3 local service providers in your area so that you can receive multiple quotes to compare pricing, availability, and customer service.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nCleaning out an entire home can be overwhelming to think about. Read our home cleanout checklist to help you organize an easy-to-follow strategy for guaranteed results.
\r\n","changed":"2023-03-31T16:15:22+00:00"},{"id":"ebd00ab6-8f28-5445-b640-1780f10831d3","title":"Benefits of Recycling Junk vs Throwing It Away","url":"/blog/benefits-of-recycling-junk-vs-throwing-it-away","image":{"path":"/static/414a81864d2e2c5d0968e8ca5f8504d1/recycle.png","alt":"Recycle your junk to save money on disposal costs"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"39c3533a-c46f-509b-8fcc-19e935627151","name":"Recycling","slug":"Recycling"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"},{"id":"49c52146-4c5a-5ad3-a556-f14363834202","name":"Scrap Metal Recycling","slug":"Scrap-Metal-Recycling"}],"content":"It's common knowledge that recycling is beneficial for the environment.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRecycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, saves energy, and prevents pollution, just to name a few.
\r\n
There are many other benefits to recycling beyond environmental ones that are often overlooked that we'll go over in this article.
\r\n\r\n![\"Overlooked](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/benefits-of-recycling-infographic_0.png\")
\r\nRecycling makes a direct impact on your local economy by creating more jobs in the area.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThrowing your unwanted junk out creates 6-7 jobs at best, while recycling can help create up to 30 jobs.
\r\n
According to the US Recycling Economic Information Study, the US Recycling Industry employs around 1.25 million people while the US Solid Waste Management industry employs around 0.25 million.
\r\n\r\nRecycling is more labor-intensive than incineration or landfill disposal, which explains why so many more jobs are created from the recycling industry.
\r\n\r\nAccording to Ecocycle, recycling creates around of 9x more jobs than traditional disposal methods, and in some areas can create as many as 30x more jobs.
\r\n\r\nIf the idea of contributing less trash to our rapidly decreasing landfill space isn't enough to begin recycling, maybe knowing the amount of jobs it could create in your area is.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOne of the main benefits of recycling is preserving natural resources.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhile preserving resources is beneficial for the environment, it's also beneficial for the cost of raw materials.
\r\n
The cost of aluminum, for example, would be significantly more expensive if it wasn't a commonly recycled material.
\r\n\r\nOther materials like copper, iron, wood, glass, paper, plastic, and steel can also be recycled to help keep costs down.
\r\n\r\nIt's also worth mentioning that landfill space is a precious resource within itself.
\r\n\r\nThe less landfill space there is, the more expensive waste disposal costs will be, so recycling helps to preserve this quickly depleting landfill space.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf you are lucky enough to live in an area that provides a free recycling program, you could save significantly on your monthly municipal waste bill.
\r\n\r\nCommitting to recycling the estimated 75% of recyclable household waste would mean a 75% decrease in the amount of garbage you'll need your waste program to pick up.
\r\n\r\nEven if you only recycle 50% of your trash, that's still a significant decrease in yearly disposal costs.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"set](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/children-recycling.png\")
\r\nIf you have a child, niece, nephew, younger sibling, or other children in your life that you are a role model for, recycling is a great example to set for them.
\r\n\r\nIf you think that the effort recycling requires isn't worth it because it won't impact you directly, think of the impact it will make for future generations.
\r\n\r\nThe cost that future generations will have to pay for basic resources will be much higher than previous generations.
\r\n\r\nTeaching them how to recycle and reuse will help shape their habits for a lifetime.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you don't have a free recycling pickup program, it's highly likely that there is a recycling drop-off center within driving distance.
\r\n\r\nDoing a quick online search for free recycling centers will show you which options are offered in your area.
\r\n\r\nIf you have gently used household items or clothing, consider donating them to a local charitable organization.
\r\n\r\nPlaces like Goodwill or The Salvation Army have drop boxes and drop-off locations where you can unload your unwanted items.
\r\n\r\nListing free items on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist is also a great way to have someone come pick up your used items.
\r\n\r\nIf you have junk to get rid of but don't have the time or transportation to haul it yourself, hiring a junk removal company that recycles on your behalf can be a stress-free solution.
\r\n\r\nYou can find locally-owned junk removal companies in your area by using Hometown.
\r\n\r\nRead real reviews and request quotes from as many companies as you'd like for free.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend getting at least 3 different quotes so that you can compare pricing and customer service.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nRecycling reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, saves energy, and prevents pollution. Learn about the many other benefits of recycling that are often overlooked.
\r\n","changed":"2023-01-19T17:16:11+00:00"},{"id":"3c665f9f-5fac-5a5f-a38e-65167013ccc3","title":"How to Get Rid of Unwanted Junk Before Moving","url":"/blog/how-to-get-rid-of-unwanted-junk-before-moving","image":{"path":"/static/2036ac3743972a20f33b8196fee3c501/moving-boxes.png","alt":"Couple looking at tablet in room full of moving boxes"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"}],"content":"Moving provides an opportunity to take inventory of all your belongings and start fresh in your new living space.
\r\n\r\nDecluttering and getting rid of old or unused items can improve your quality of life, but you might be wondering, \"What do I do with all my old junk?\"
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/get-rid-of-junk-before-moving-info_4.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nOne option for getting rid of old junk that won't fit in your regular trash bin is to take it to the landfill yourself.
\r\n\r\nWhen hauling items to the landfill yourself, be prepared to wait in line.
\r\n\r\nDepending on where your local landfill is located, wait times may be significant.
\r\n\r\nYou'll be charged based on the weight of your items, which is around $50 per ton on average.
\r\n\r\nTaking your junk to the landfill yourself may be cheaper than renting a dumpster, but consider the cost of travel and the value of your time when deciding which disposal solution is best for you.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\nThe cheapest way to get rid of unwanted belongings is to donate them.
\r\n\r\nThere are several ways to do this:
\r\n\r\nIf your items aren't in decent working condition, donating won't be the right option for getting rid of your old junk before your big move.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nFor those that have a large amount of junk to get rid of, renting a dumpster is the perfect disposal solution.
\r\n\r\nTemporary dumpster rentals allow you to load your unwanted items at your own pace.
\r\n\r\nMost residential dumpster rentals have flexible rental terms, ranging anywhere from a single day to several weeks.
\r\n\r\nThere are different dumpster styles and sizes available on the market to accommodate disposal projects of all sizes while still fitting in your driveway.
\r\n\r\nWhen it comes to renting a dumpster, the best price can most often be found with a locally-owned and operated company.
\r\n\r\nIt's also best practice to get multiple quotes and shop around before making a decision on who to rent from.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to request free quotes from multiple dumpster companies in your area with a single quote request form.
\r\n\r\nWe do the research for you and present you with a list of licensed, insured, and reputable dumpster rental companies that service your zip code.
\r\n\r\nThe customer reviews are all verified, so you can read about others' experience and make the best, most informed choice when deciding who to rent a dumpster from.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIf you're someone who doesn't have the time, manpower, physical ability, or desire to load a dumpster yourself, hiring a junk removal crew is the most convenient way to get rid of all your unwanted junk before you move out.
\r\n\r\nSimilarly to dumpster rental, junk removal services can comfortably accommodate disposal project of all sizes.
\r\n\r\nIf you only have a mattress and box spring or maybe just a couple boxes to get rid of, a removal crew can have your items loaded on their truck and hauled off your property within a matter of minutes.
\r\n\r\nLarger, more extensive projects can likely be done within a few hours.
\r\n\r\nUnlike a single flat rate when you rent a dumpster, junk removal companies will charge you based on the amount of space your items take up in their truck.
\r\n\r\nWhile junk removal services can cost more than renting a dumpster for those who have 7 cubic yards or more of junk, the convenience of not having to lift a finger is invaluable to many.
\r\n\r\nUnsure whether renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal service is the better option to get rid of old items before your upcoming move? Get free quotes for both services!
\r\n\r\nFill out Hometown's quote request form for both services and compare local companies.
\r\n\r\nFind out who has the best prices, best reviews, and the availability your timeline requires - all in one convenient place!
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nDecluttering and getting rid of old or unused items before moving provides an opportunity to start fresh in your new living space, but you might be wondering, \"What do I do with all my old junk?\". Read about different disposal options available to make your move seamless.
\r\n","changed":"2022-11-16T21:23:29+00:00"},{"id":"e382caae-8a42-5697-b3f7-d6db50738823","title":"Estate Cleanouts: How They’re Done and How Much It Costs","url":"/blog/estate-cleanout-costs","image":{"path":"/static/0097d35278aa1a767535610df05b3cfb/estate-cleanout.png","alt":"junk removal truck full of furniture and boxes in front of house"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"68ebf442-93d0-56cf-9891-e7a9d9bf7874","name":"Estate Cleanout","slug":"Estate-Cleanout"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"},{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"Estate cleanouts can be an emotionally and physically exhausting endeavor, as they usually occur after unfortunate circumstances, like a divorce or the homeowner passing away. These cleanouts typically involve the complete removal of all personal items from a home, including furniture, appliances, kitchenware, clothing, and everything in between that collects in a person's home throughout their life.
\r\n\r\nThe difference between an estate cleanout and a regular home cleanout is that, with an estate cleanout, the home is left completely empty. With a home cleanout, only some items are removed with the intention of decluttering, deep cleaning, or organizing your home, whether for general household upkeep, a move, or a change in lifestyle.
\r\n\r\nIn an estate cleanout, the homeowner or a relative removes any and all assets from their home in order to potentially sell and liquidate, or split amongst inheritors.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRegardless of your reason for needing an estate cleanout, it can be extraordinarily large and difficult task to perform, which is why professional junk removal and moving teams are a great resource in these circumstances.
\r\n
The average cost of an estate cleanout is $500-$2,000.
\r\n\r\nYour exact estate cleanout cost will vary depending on:
\r\n\r\n![\"estate](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/estate-cleanout-costs-infographic.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\n
The most common factors that affect the cost of estate cleanouts include...
\r\n\r\nThe cost of living (COL) in your area affects fuel costs and disposal fees, which typically equates to a higher bill for estate cleanouts. Someone located in a big city, where the COL is higher, can expect to pay more for junk removal services than someone in a smaller town, where the COL is lower.
\r\n\r\nAccessibility is another large factor in junk removal pricing. If junk removal companies will need to haul items down or up flights of stairs or if you have extremely heavy or bulky items, like a piano, armoire, or large couch, you can expect your junk removal costs to go up.
\r\n\r\nAny accommodations that require additional labor will be reflected in the price you're charged to complete your estate cleanout. Likewise, if your whole-home cleanout requires hazardous material removal, it will almost always be more expensive to have your belongings hauled away.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal prices, including estate cleanouts, are often priced based on the amount of space the junk takes up in the company's truck. So the exact price of your estate cleanout will depend on exactly how much you're getting rid of and how many trucks it takes it get the job done.
\r\n\r\nThe company you hire to do the work will also affect the cost to get your estate cleanout done. Because costs vary from one company to the next, we recommend getting at least 2-3 junk removal quotes before hiring to make sure you're getting a competitive price and good, timely service.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to browse estate cleanout services near you, read reviews, and request free estimates from as many providers as you'd like.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nEstate cleanouts cost $500-$2,000 on average, but pricing may vary depending on a number of factors, like location, accessibility, the amount of junk you have, and who you hire.
\r\n","changed":"2025-12-03T18:26:13+00:00"},{"id":"43a0e933-9f3a-5aa7-ac87-3ef577cc9224","title":"Average Cost to Clean Out an Apartment or Condo","url":"/blog/cost-of-apartment-or-condo-cleanout","image":{"path":"/static/2e5a2413f4b7a9c36640bbac2d152d23/apt-clean.png","alt":"Person wearing cleaning gloves and apron standing in front of a messy apartment"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"},{"id":"58c950b5-f4ae-5829-8cae-bf1a2ddaac1c","name":"Junk Removal Costs","slug":"Junk-Removal-Costs"},{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"\r\n\r\n\r\nThe cost of cleaning out an apartment or condo varies greatly based on a number of different factors.
\r\n
Some may assume that an apartment or condo cleanout would be cheaper than a house cleanout, but it all depends on where you live and how much junk you have to get rid of.
\r\n\r\nLuckily, there are a couple efficient options to choose from when it's time to clean out a living space and Hometown has gathered them here with average pricing information for each.
\r\n\r\n![\"How](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/apartment-condo-cleanout.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nJunk removal services base their pricing on several different factors, like:
\r\n\r\nAll of these factors will impact the price you pay for junk removal services, which is why predicting costs for these services can be difficult.
\r\n\r\nIn fact, most companies will only provide in-person quotes for junk removal so that their crew can come assess your project to give you the most accurate pricing estimate.
\r\n\r\nThat's why the cost to have a junk removal company clean out an apartment or condo could easily cost as much as the cleanout of a house, because it all comes down to the amount of junk you have to get rid of.
\r\n\r\nBased on national averages, the typical cost of a junk removal company to clean out a condo or apartment can range between $400-$1,500.
\r\n\r\nIf the apartment/condo is in hoarding condition, average pricing ranges between $1,000-$3,000.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPrice shopping junk removal companies can feel awkward or difficult when they require the company to come onsite to provide a quote, but these quotes are always free of any obligation to hire or pay for their estimate.
\r\n
If you've done research and feel like you could find a better deal elsewhere, kindly tell the crew that you appreciate their time and that you'll think it over and get back with them.
\r\n\r\nIf you like the price they've given you, however, they usually get to work right away which is great for people trying to maintain a strict timeline.
\r\n\r\nFinding local junk removal companies is fast and easy with Hometown. We'll show you reputable companies that service your area and you can request free quotes from multiple providers, all in one simple place.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are the fastest and easiest way to clean out an apartment or condo but it's typical that junk removal services cost more than renting a dumpster because of the added labor costs involved.
\r\n\r\nHowever, the exception to this is smaller cleanups, like hauling away a couple pieces of furniture or getting rid of a refrigerator.
\r\n\r\nIf you have the time, strength, equipment, and manpower to do the apartment or condo cleanout on your own, read on to learn more about how renting a dumpster can streamline your project.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"Two](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/apt-dumpster.png\")
\r\nRenting a dumpster for apartment, condo, or house cleanouts is a great way to dispose of large amounts of garbage and junk at once.
\r\n\r\nMost dumpster rentals last 5-7 days but can be adjusted to fit your needs in most cases.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHaving a receptacle at your residence for multiple days allows you to take your time and pace yourself as you work your way through the apartment or condo.
\r\n
Most apartment/condo cleanouts can be accommodated with a 10 or 20 yard roll-off dumpster, which costs $250-$450 on average.
\r\n\r\nCondos and apartments in hoarding condition may require multiple or larger dumpsters, like a 30 or 40 yard dumpster, which costs $400-$550 on average.
\r\n\r\nIf you're debating between two sizes and are having a hard time choosing, we always recommend going with the larger dumpster.
\r\n\r\nIf you underestimate how much junk you have to throw away (which is very easy to do), you may end up having to rent a second dumpster which will immediately double your disposal costs.
\r\n\r\nThe cost of two 10 yard dumpsters could run you $500-$700, while the cost of one 20 yard dumpster is generally only around $350-$450.
\r\n\r\nIt's important to be as descriptive as possible when speaking with each dumpster rental company about the amount and type of items you have to dispose of so that they can provide you with their expert opinion on which dumpster size will best suit your needs.
\r\n\r\nJust like with junk removal, Hometown can help you find locally-owned and operated dumpster rental companies that service your area.
\r\n\r\nWe put emphasis on local services because local companies tend to cost less and offer the most personable services in comparison to their large chain competitors.
\r\n\r\nYou can get free dumpster rental quotes from as many providers as you'd like to make sure you get the best price and customer service.
\r\n\r\nHometown understands the importance of quality customer service and the value of your time which is why we publish verified reviews from real customers, for both dumpster rental and junk removal services, so you can make an informed decision when hiring help.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nLearn about the two most efficient options available when cleaning out an apartment or condo and the average cost for each.
\r\n","changed":"2023-02-23T00:35:27+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Alaska/Anchorage-AK-dumpsters.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"alaska/junk-removal-anchorage-ak","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Alaska","place":"Anchorage, AK","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"alaska/commercial-waste-management-anchorage-ak","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"Removing Unwanted Junk","body":"Junk removal is one of the easiest and most convenient ways to get rid of all kinds of junk, including furniture, appliances, yard waste, general household junk, and more.
\r\n\r\nThe junk removal process is simple:
\r\n\r\nFind the right junk removal company using Hometown.
\r\n\r\nArrange a time with the company to come out to do the work. (If you have a lot of junk to be removed, the company will likely need to come out to give an accurate quote in person. If it isn't a lot, they will likely be able to provide an estimate over the phone.)
\r\n\r\nJunk removal specialists arrive to remove your items safely and efficiently.
\r\n\r\nThey haul the items away and dispose of/recycle them properly.
\r\n\r\nMany companies will also sweep up the area when they're done, leaving you with a clean, empty, useable space!
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n\r\n","place":null,"code":"junk-removal"}],"related":[{"title":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"alaska/commercial-waste-management-nulato-ak"},{"title":"Dumpster rental","url":"alaska/dumpster-rental-nulato-ak"}],"modal_project_types":[{"name":"Cleanout an Interior Space","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":542,"label":"Cleanout - Basement","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":543,"label":"Cleanout - Commercial","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":544,"label":"Cleanout - Estate","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":545,"label":"Cleanout - Garage","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":546,"label":"Cleanout - Hoarding","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Cleanup an Exterior Area","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":547,"label":"Cleanup - Storm Recovery","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":557,"label":"Trash Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":558,"label":"Yard Waste Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Construction & Demolition","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":548,"label":"Construction Debris Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":552,"label":"Light Demolition","service":"junk-removal"}]},{"name":"Large Item Removal","service":"junk-removal","projects":[{"id":540,"label":"Appliance Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":541,"label":"Carpet Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":550,"label":"Furniture Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":553,"label":"Mattress Removal","service":"junk-removal"},{"id":554,"label":"Refrigerator Removal","service":"junk-removal"}]}],"codes":[{"name":"Residential Trash Service","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Residential_Trash_Service","code":null}},{"name":"Excavating","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Excavating","code":null}},{"name":"Septic Tank Service","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Septic_Tank_Service","code":null}},{"name":"Portable Toilets","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Portable_Toilets","code":null}},{"name":"Storage Containers","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Storage_Containers","code":null}},{"name":"Portable Offices","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Portable_Offices","code":null}},{"name":"Temporary Fencing","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Temporary_Fencing","code":null}},{"name":"Equipment Rental","code":null,"paths":{"name":"Equipment_Rental","code":null}},{"name":"Dumpster Rental","code":"dumpster","paths":{"name":"Dumpster_Rental","code":"dumpster-rental"}},{"name":"Junk Removal","code":"junk-removal","paths":{"name":"Junk_Removal","code":"junk-removal"}},{"name":"Commercial Waste Management","code":"comercial-trash-service","paths":{"name":"Commercial_Waste_Management","code":"commercial-waste-management"}}],"seo_desc":[{"name":"Junk Removal","code":"junk-removal","kg_homepage_seo_desc":"Junk Removal","kg_kpp_seo_desc":"Get rid of your junk now at the best price! 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