Waste Management's bag-style dumpster, the Bagster, is a popular option for homeowners looking to dispose of junk or debris that won’t fit in their weekly trash bin.
\r\n\r\nBagster dimensions measure 8 feet long x 4 feet wide x 2.5 feet high and can hold a maximum of 3 cubic yards of material and up to 3,300 lbs—or 1 cubic yard of heavy debris, like concrete, brick, or dirt—and costs $150-$350 on average, including purchasing the bag and bag pickup/disposal.
\r\n\r\nHowever, it's not the only disposal option out there. Small dumpster rentals are a more cost-effective method by far in most regions, and equally convenient. There are a number of other options available to you that can save you money.
\r\n\r\n\r\n
![\"infographic](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/better-alternatives-to-bagster-infographic_1.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nRoll-off dumpsters are widely available and priced competitively, making them a great option for most people, even when you live in rural areas.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nRoll-off dumpsters offer the best cost-per-yard value in this list, which means you get the most bang for your buck.
\r\n
An important consideration in choosing a disposal option for any small project is to always over-estimate the amount of debris you'll need to toss. For example, if you estimate 3 cubic yards of junk for your garage cleanout project, don’t get a 3 cubic yard dumpster. Instead, get a 5+ yard dumpster to ensure it will accommodate the job without any hassle in the end.
\r\n\r\nMost dumpster rental companies offer 10 yard dumpsters, or something close to that (ex. 8 yard or 12 yard). Using the previous example, it’s not a bad idea to rent a 10 yard dumpster for 3 cubic yard projects. This provides ample capacity to handle the job, and you can use the extra room to dispose of other junk, trash or debris lying around. The cost difference between Bagsters and 10 yard dumpsters is typically negligible, but the cost per yard is much lower and you get much more disposal capacity for your money.
\r\n\r\nFind out more:
\r\n\r\n![\"trailer](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/dumpster-trailer.png\")
\r\nThis is a similar option to roll-off dumpsters, only these dumpsters are on rubber tires rather than steel feet/wheels.Trailer dumpsters are a great option when you need to place the dumpster on a semi-soft surface or residential driveway.
\r\n\r\nTrailer dumpster costs are similar to that of roll-off containers.
\r\n\r\nDump trailers aren’t as widely available as roll-off containers, so this may not be an option in your area.
\r\n\r\nHometown can help you find dumpster rental (including trailer dumpsters) and junk removal services near you.
\r\n
\r\nWe make it easy to get answers to common disposal questions, find local dumpster rental and junk removal companies near you, and get quotes from multiple providers to compare pricing and customer service.
Read on:
\r\n\r\n![\"junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/junk-removal-from-curb.png\")
\r\nJunk removal services are an ideal alternative for smaller projects, like the 3 yards or less that a Bagster could handle.
\r\n\r\nA junk removal company does the cleanup for you, so it saves you time and effort.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal pricing typically starts at $75-$125 for small pick-ups, so costs rival that of Bagsters and small roll-off dumpster rental.
\r\n\r\nOne of the key benefits of hiring a junk removal company is the convenience it offers. They handle all the loading, hauling, and disposal for you.
\r\n\r\nThis is a quick and efficient, hands-off solution. We recommend checking with three or more local junk removal companies to get the best price and service to meet your needs.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nThere are also other bag-style dumpsters on the market that may be a better option for your project.
\r\n\r\nWhile the look and material are similar to Bagster, other bag dumpster companies provide additional sizing options, such as 5.5 yard or 6 yard bags.
\r\n\r\nPricing and restrictions vary by company.
\r\n\r\nSome examples of these bag dumpster options include:
\r\n\r\nAs with Bagster, availability is limited and may not be an option in your area.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading: What Items Can and Can't Go in a Bagster?
\r\n\r\nBagster is a popular option launched by Waste Management several years ago, but it's not the only small disposal solution out there. Learn the four other popular options that make great Bagster alternatives.
\r\n","changed":"2025-04-23T13:43:10+00:00"},{"id":"7a7dab42-d72e-5e53-84a8-2efb2ddecd31","title":"Junk Removal 101: A Guide to Junk Removal Services","url":"/blog/junk-removal-101","image":{"path":"/static/8ff45247e0d7148c45e70c1053fa2191/how-junk-removal-works.jpg","alt":"how junk removal works"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"61ca817b-0498-5abf-bbe7-cdf5935242bc","name":"Junk Removal","slug":"Junk-Removal"}],"content":"If you’ve never hired a junk removal company before, the process can feel a little unclear. What does junk removal include? How much should it cost? How do you know you’re choosing a reliable provider?
\r\n\r\nThis comprehensive junk removal guide breaks down exactly how professional junk removal works, what services most companies offer, how pricing is determined, and what to expect on pickup day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhether you’re cleaning out a home, tackling a renovation, or getting rid of bulky household items, understanding the basics will help you avoid surprises and get the best value for your project.
\r\n
Below, we cover the most important things every customer should know before booking a junk removal service, so you can hire the right junk removal company, compare pricing confidently, and enjoy a quick, easy cleanup from start to finish.
\r\n\r\n![\"how](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/junk-removal-101-infographic_0.jpg\")
\r\nFinding a local junk removal service is simple with Hometown, and the entire process is easy once you understand the basic steps. Here’s a clear breakdown of how the process typically works, from finding the right company to watching your clutter disappear.
\r\n\r\nThe first step is locating reputable junk removal providers in your area. Hometown makes this easy by showing you verified local companies, along with the services they offer, their pricing details (when available), customer reviews, and service areas.
\r\n\r\nThis helps you quickly narrow down your options and choose a hauler that fits your needs, budget, and timeline.
\r\n\r\nGetting several quotes is one of the best ways to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Depending on how much junk you have, pricing happens in one of two ways:
\r\n\r\nDuring an on-site quote, the team evaluates:
\r\n\r\nOnce they review everything, the crew gives you a firm, no-obligation price.
\r\n\r\nIf you’re happy with the quote, the crew will usually remove your junk immediately. No need to schedule a second visit.
\r\n\r\nIf the price isn’t right for you, that’s perfectly fine. Estimates are free, and you’re never obligated to move forward.
\r\n\r\nYou only pay once the job is completed and your junk is gone.
\r\n\r\nAfter approval, the team loads your items onto their truck, handles all the heavy lifting, and cleans up the area before they leave.
\r\n\r\nThis includes sweeping up small debris so your space looks clean and ready to use again.
\r\n\r\nOnce the job is done, you can enjoy a refreshed, clutter-free space without any of the hard work.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal companies responsibly handle the materials they collect, donating reusable items, recycling whenever possible, and disposing of the rest in accordance with local regulations.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nHiring a junk removal company is one of the fastest and easiest ways to clear out unwanted items. Whether you’re tackling a home cleanout, getting rid of bulky furniture, or managing debris from a business or rental property, professional junk removal takes the heavy lifting, and the guesswork, off your plate.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal is ideal for anyone who wants a completely hands-off experience. The crew handles everything for you:
\r\n\r\nNo matter how much clutter you have, junk removal offers a convenient, stress-free way to reclaim your space.
\r\n\r\nA common question is: “What can I get rid of using a junk removal service?”
\r\n\r\nGenerally, junk removal companies accept a wider range of items than what you can place in a dumpster. Many haulers will take items that dumpster providers restrict or prohibit, including:
\r\n\r\nThis flexibility exists because many junk removal companies sort items and prioritize responsible disposal, donating usable items and recycling materials that cannot be landfilled.
\r\n\r\n![\"items](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/items-commonly-accepted-by-junk-removal-companies-infographic.jpg\")
\r\nIf you’re unsure whether a company will take a specific item, the best approach is simply to ask. When requesting quotes, get estimates from at least two or three contractors and confirm that they accept the items you need removed.
\r\n\r\nCommon items that may require special handling or vary by company include:
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal companies do not accept hazardous chemicals or regulated waste, so always verify ahead of time if you suspect an item falls into that category.
\r\n\r\n![\"making](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/junk-removal-payment.jpg\")
\r\nGetting a quote from a junk removal company is always free, but the price you pay depends on several key factors. Most junk removal providers charge based on the amount of space your items take up in their truck, the type of debris being removed, and the labor required to haul it away.
\r\n\r\nMost junk removal companies charge a minimum fee of $75-$100. This usually covers a small load, such as:
\r\n\r\nMinimum pricing ensures the company can cover fuel, labor, and disposal fees for even the smallest jobs.
\r\n\r\nThe largest factor in junk removal pricing is how much junk you have. Companies typically price jobs according to truck volume:
\r\n\r\nThe more space your items take up, the higher the cost. Larger loads also require more time and additional labor, which can increase your total price.
\r\n\r\nSome items take more work to remove than others. You may pay more if your project includes:
\r\n\r\nMore labor equals more time and higher pricing.
\r\n\r\nWhere you live also influences cost.
\r\n\r\nIf you're in a remote or rural area, a hauler may charge more to cover the extra time, fuel, and disposal-site travel distance. Urban areas may have slightly higher prices as well, depending on tipping fees and local disposal regulations.
\r\n\r\nFor major cleanouts, like estate cleanouts, rental property turnovers, or full-house decluttering, expect higher pricing due to both volume and labor.
\r\n\r\nMost whole-home cleanouts range from $500-$1,500, with higher prices for:
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\n![\"putting](\"/sites/default/files/migrate_images/donate-to-save-money.jpg\")
\r\nJunk removal doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little preparation, you can significantly reduce the amount you pay—and in some cases, avoid hiring a junk hauler altogether.
\r\n\r\nBefore requesting quotes, take a quick walk-through of the items you’re planning to remove. If anything is still usable, you may be able to:
\r\n\r\nRemoving these items yourself reduces the total volume your junk hauler must take, which means a lower price.
\r\n\r\nIf you have recyclables, disposing of them before hiring a junk removal company can save you money. Many communities accept:
\r\n\r\nThe less your junk removal crew has to haul, the less you pay.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a lot of lightweight clutter scattered throughout your home, a dumpster rental may be more cost-effective.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental is ideal when you:
\r\n\r\nA 10 yard dumpster costs around $300 for a 7-day rental, and it can handle small- to medium-sized projects like attic, garage, basement, or shed cleanouts.
\r\n\r\nBy comparison, junk removal for the same volume can cost $200-$800, depending on your location and the labor required. In some cases, renting a dumpster can save you $300-$500 or more.
\r\n\r\nIf you’re unsure which option is better, see:
\r\n\r\nChoosing the right junk removal company ensures fair pricing, reliable service, and a stress-free experience. To get the best results—and avoid overpaying—it’s important to compare more than one contractor.
\r\n\r\nAlways contact at least two to three junk removal providers. This helps you:
\r\n\r\nFree, no-obligation quotes make it easy to compare options before committing.
\r\n\r\nA reputable junk removal company will offer:
\r\n\r\nGetting multiple quotes ensures you choose a company that meets your needs and budget.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nFind out everything you need to know about junk removal services, average junk removal costs, who to hire, and more. Make your junk removal project seamless and stress-free with the help of our guide.
\r\n","changed":"2025-12-09T15:54:47+00:00"},{"id":"a4601285-44cd-5035-a7d4-2dac49f16da9","title":"New Year, New You! Easy Ways to Downsize Your Life and Start Off on the Right Foot","url":"/blog/easy-ways-to-downsize-your-life","image":{"path":"/static/e5d3f3f12557d5c9a99a8011fed2eef0/new-year-declutter.png","alt":"Woman organizing items into separate 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":"The New Year provides the perfect opportunity to tackle an area of your life that needs improvement.
\r\n\r\nFor many, this means finally decluttering their living space, getting rid of unwanted items taking up valuable space, and regaining organizational control of their home.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDecluttering doesn't have to be a difficult, overwhelming, or intimidating task to keep putting off; that will only allow more items to pile up and continue the negative cycle.
\r\n
Hometown has compiled our biggest tips for tackling the New Year head on and getting decluttered and organize.
\r\n\r\nJumping into a deep decluttering project without a plan can do more harm than good.
\r\n\r\nWhen we find ourselves overwhelmed, it's easy to give up and walk away, leaving the clutter to be dealt with another day.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPacing yourself and mapping out a plan of attack will give yourself the best chance to succeed.
\r\n
Rather than trying to get everything done within a day or a single weekend, consider how much free time you actually have to offer this project.
\r\n\r\nWork on only one room at a time so that all other areas of the home are still functional because—spoiler alert—things are probably going to look worse before they start to look better.
\r\n\r\nDecluttering involves going through every belonging in a room and determining what will stay, what will be donated or tossed in the trash, and then finding the most efficient way to organize the items you plan on keeping.
\r\n\r\nThis process can be time consuming and will temporarily make the area look messier than before you started, but you have to trust the process.
\r\n\r\nDecide which rooms will take the most amount of time and start there. Spend a few hours a day tackling that room until things are organized and the room is complete.
\r\n\r\nIt's okay to take a break between rooms to reward yourself for your hard work, but don't make the mistake of walking away for too long and losing your momentum.
\r\n\r\nOne of the biggest mistakes people make when decluttering is to be indecisive about what to do with items and decide to box them up and stuff them in a closet somewhere.
\r\n\r\nYou should restrict your storage space to only being used for items that you actually need and use often, and boxed items should be reserved for seasonal or sentimental items.
\r\n\r\nWhen you are going through your belongings and deciding what to do with them, limit yourself to placing these items into one of four piles:
\r\n\r\nItems you plan on donating should be in clean, working condition and can be placed in boxes or bags for easy transport.
\r\n\r\nYou can drop these items off at local donation centers, like Goodwill, or you can place an ad on Facebook Marketplace as free items for porch pickup.
\r\n\r\nItems that can be thrown away should be bagged and tossed into your trash.
\r\n\r\nIf you have a bulk amount of trash to get rid of, or large, bulky items that won't fit into your trash, consider renting a temporary dumpster.
\r\n\r\nAnother option that simplifies donating or throwing away unwanted items is to hire a junk removal company. They'll haul away your unwanted junk and donate the items in good condition and take the trash to a local landfill or recycling center when applicable.
\r\n\r\nFor the items that you plan on selling, make sure they're clean and take a variety of well-lit photos from a couple different angles.
\r\n\r\nList these items on an online marketplace, like Facebook, Craigslist, or Depop, and be sure to include a detailed description to give yourself the best chance of attracting the right buyer.
\r\n\r\nThe items that you plan on keeping should be dusted or wiped down before ultimately being put away in an organized fashion.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend organizing the items you plan on keeping after you get rid of the items you plan on selling/donating/throwing away.
\r\n\r\nIt's much easier to organize in a room with less clutter, so save this part for last.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\n![\"Person](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/new-year-scan.png\")
\r\nA new modern way to hang onto sentimental items in a storage-friendly way is to digitalize documents, photos, videos, and memorabilia when you can.
\r\n\r\nBoxes of paperwork, photos, or handwritten notes from high school can ultimately take up a lot of space.
\r\n\r\nEliminate the need to find a home for these boxes by taking photos or scanning them into a hard drive or Google Drive so that you can get rid of these old documents.
\r\n\r\nDigitalizing sentimental or important documents is also a great way to protect them from theft, fire/water damage, or from being lost.
\r\n\r\nWhen you find yourself overwhelmed with the amount of stuff to get rid of, hiring help will streamline the disposal aspect of your project so that you can focus on organizing and cleaning.
\r\n\r\nHaving to haul boxes, bags, and old furniture is a physically draining and time consuming project in and of itself.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services are designed to help you unload unwanted items in the fastest, most convenient way possible.
\r\n\r\nThey will either come into your home and haul away your items from wherever they're placed, or you can pile up your items on the porch or in the driveway for completely contactless pickup.
\r\n\r\nEither way, these services are very fast and their convenience cannot be understated.
\r\n\r\nFor those that have large, ongoing projects and want to do a little more physical labor in order to save on costs, renting a dumpster is a great solution.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental services are affordable, easy to schedule, and provide the perfect solution for larger cleanup projects.
\r\n\r\nThe New Year provides the perfect opportunity to tackle an area of your life that needs improvement and for many, this means finally decluttering their living space and regaining control of their home. Follow these simple steps to decluttering your home to start the new year off right.
\r\n","changed":"2023-01-10T14:31:50+00:00"}],"populars":[{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Pittsburgh, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/pittsburgh-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"commercial-waste-management","code_name":"Commercial Waste Management","url":"pennsylvania/commercial-waste-management-allentown-pa","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Philadelphia, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/Philadelphia-dumpster-rental.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Philadelphia, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/philadelphia-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"junk-removal","code_name":"Junk Removal","url":"Pennsylvania/junk-removal/allentown-pa.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"},{"state":"Pennsylvania","place":"Allentown, PA","code":"dumpster-rental","code_name":"Dumpster Rental","url":"Pennsylvania/dumpsters-allentown.html","hub":true,"hubs":true,"type":"Hub01"}],"tips":[{"name":"20 Yard Dumpsters","body":"The average cost of renting a 20 yard roll-off dumpster is $350-$550. Other charges for overages, tonnage, fuel surcharges, late fees, and certain types of debris may also apply.
\r\n\r\nOverage fees apply when you go over your dumpster's weight limit. Overage fees vary by company but typically range from $75-$100 per ton. This is why it’s important to choose the right dumpster size for you. When speaking with the rental company over the phone, be detailed about the type and amount of debris you plan to get rid of. They are good at estimating weight and helping you choose the right size dumpster.
\r\n\r\n20 yard roll-off containers commonly come equipped with a hinged door, which makes it easy for you to load heavy/bulky items. Make sure you ask the dumpster providers you speak to whether or not their dumpsters have doors, as some older containers may not. Typical dimensions of a 20 yard dumpster are 22 feet long, 8 feet wide, and 4.5 feet tall. If you are doing a home or garage cleanout, a 20 yard dumpster may be a great option for you, as the dimensions accommodate furniture and general trash well.
\r\n\r\nLearn more about 20 yard containers:
\r\n\r\n\n\t\t\t\t\tLias Enterprise, LLC supports residential and commercial projects with practical waste and sanitation solutions. Our roll-off dumpsters—available in 10, 12, 15, and 20 yards—are delivered and picked...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tVogel Disposal Service Inc has been the leading independent resource for waste collection and disposal services throughout Western Pennsylvania for over 60 years! We offer 20 yard and 30 yard roll off dumpster rentals for the convenience of a variety...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tRubble Dumpsters is fast, efficient and experienced in dumpster rental, waste management, and recycling services. Our dumpsters are delivered clean to your home or job...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tFast, efficient, and honest, PHiLL It Up, LLC has become a reputable and well-known disposal company. Whether you are cleaning up a job site or...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tWhether you're cleaning out your basement, your yard, or need to remove debris from a remodel, our dumpsters can help. McCutcheon Enterprises Inc. offers a...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tHandling renovation debris, yard waste, or estate cleanouts just got easier with Steel City Hauling, serving the Steel City region from Pittsburgh, PA. Our variety...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tM&T's Junk Removal and Services is a veteran-owned business providing fast, affordable, and reliable junk removal, dumpster rental, and light demolition services. We proudly...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tKunselman Sanitation is a family-owned business serving the New Bethlehem area of Western Pennsylvania for over 30 years. We pride ourselves on reliable, dependable, and friendly...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
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