![\"A](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dumpster-on-the-street-1.jpg\")
Landfills play a crucial role in managing the waste generated by communities around the world. While recycling and waste reduction are essential components of a sustainable waste management strategy, landfills remain an integral part of the process, and utilizing a landfill can look a couple different ways.
\r\n\r\nOf course, tossing items in your curbside trash collection is one way to get your unwanted junk and trash to the landfill, but you can also rent a dumpster for larger loads or haul items there yourself using your own vehicle or trailer.
\r\n\r\nIn this article, we will delve into the inner workings of a landfill and how they function, and explore the pros and cons of the different ways to drop off at a landfill.
\r\n\r\nMost people understand that a landfill is a designated area where waste materials are deposited and buried. The goal is to contain and isolate the waste from the environment to prevent contamination and the spread of diseases.
\r\n\r\nModern landfills are engineered facilities that incorporate advanced technologies to minimize environmental impact and promote safety.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"landfill](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/landfill-path.jpg\")
\r\nDropping off a load at a local landfill involves several steps to ensure the proper disposal of waste is in compliance with environmental regulations.
\r\n\r\nThe specific process may vary depending on the landfill and local regulations, but the following is a general overview of what typically happens when a resident wants to drop off a load at a local landfill:
\r\n\r\nWhen a resident arrives at the landfill, they will typically approach a designated entrance or checkpoint. It's essential to follow any posted signs and guidelines for entering the facility safely.
\r\n\r\nMany landfills have weighing scales at the entrance to determine the weight of the incoming waste. Vehicles, often trucks or trailers carrying the waste, are weighed before and after unloading. The difference in weight helps calculate the amount of waste being deposited. Some landfills may require residents to register or provide information about the type of waste they are disposing of.
\r\n\r\nLandfills often have designated areas or bins for different types of waste, such as general household waste, recyclables, and hazardous materials. Residents may be directed to separate their waste accordingly. Some landfills encourage recycling by providing separate containers for recyclable materials.
\r\n\r\nLandfills typically charge fees based on the weight or volume of the waste being deposited. After the waste is unloaded, residents will proceed to a payment station to settle the disposal fees. Fees may vary depending on the type of waste and local regulations.
\r\n\r\nLandfills have specific safety guidelines that residents must follow. These may include speed limits, designated traffic lanes, and instructions on how to safely unload waste. It's important for residents to adhere to these guidelines to ensure the safety of both themselves and landfill staff.
\r\n\r\nLandfill staff may be present to supervise the unloading process and provide assistance if needed. They can guide residents to the appropriate disposal areas and answer any questions about the landfill's rules and regulations.
\r\n\r\nResidents should be aware of any restrictions on certain materials and ensure that they dispose of waste in an environmentally responsible manner. Some landfills have specific areas for items like electronic waste, construction debris, or hazardous materials.
\r\n\r\nAfter the waste is deposited and fees are paid, residents may receive documentation, such as a receipt or a record of the transaction. This documentation is important for tracking waste management activities and may be required for regulatory purposes.
\r\n\r\nSome landfills actively promote recycling by providing facilities for separating recyclable materials. Residents should take advantage of these opportunities to reduce the amount of waste going to landfills and promote sustainable waste management practices.
\r\n\r\nUpon completion of the disposal process, residents can exit the landfill. In some cases, there may be compliance checks to ensure that waste was deposited appropriately and that all fees were paid.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Trash Disposal Showdown: Junk Removal vs 10 Yard Dumpsters vs Bag Dumpsters
\r\n\r\n![\"California](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/california-landfill.jpg\")
\r\nLet's take a closer look at the pros and cons of dropping off at a landfill yourself to get a better understanding of whether or not it's a good fit for you...
\r\n\r\nRead more: How Much It Costs to Dump at the Landfill (and Why It's Not Always the Best Option)
\r\n\r\nRenting a dumpster can be a great—and often superior—alternative to dropping off at the landfill yourself.
\r\n\r\nUnderstanding how landfills work and what to expect when dropping off waste equips individuals with the knowledge they need to make an informed choice about their disposal practices. Weigh the pros and cons of each drop-off method to be sure you're doing the best thing for you and your project. If renting a dumpster is your best option, let Hometown help you find a qualified local dumpster rental service. Read verified customer reviews, easily request multiple free quotes with the click of a button, and get answers to common dumpster rental questions—all in one place.
\r\nLearn the inner workings of a landfill and how they function, and explore the pros and cons of the different ways to dispose of waste at a landfill: doing it yourself or renting a dumpster.
\r\n","changed":"2024-03-15T15:55:52+00:00"},{"id":"59dce125-0cb4-5974-a7da-12a05191f452","title":"How Much Does It Cost to Pick Up a Dumpster Bag?","url":"/blog/cost-to-pick-up-dumpster-bag","image":{"path":"/static/4fb5021ee058e2cb069ff866bad45b6f/Bagster-pickup.jpg","alt":"Bagster dumpster being picked up by Waste Management"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"},{"id":"b6b1c3aa-d203-5c85-a336-698781467625","name":"Dumpster Bags","slug":"Dumpster-Bags"},{"id":"59e80e10-b42a-5876-8471-f7ca60fbc75e","name":"Dumpster Costs","slug":"Dumpster-Costs"}],"content":"\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen utilizing a dumpster bag for a project, there are two costs involved: the actual cost of the bag and the cost to have it picked up and disposed of.
\r\n
The cost of obtaining the bag dumpster from the manufacturer or an authorized retailer (e.g., Home Depot, Amazon, Lowes, etc.) varies but generally costs $25 to $35. However, this fee does not include the pickup/disposal cost.
\r\n\r\nBelow, we'll give some examples of the average pick-up costs for popular dumpster bags as well as traditional roll-off dumpster costs to help you make the best, most cost-effective choice for your disposal project.
\r\n\r\n![\"bag](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/bag-dumpster-vs-dumpster-costs-infographic.jpg\")
\r\nThe Bagster from Waste Management is currently the most well known and widely available dumpster bag option.
\r\n\r\nThis dumpster offers 3 yards of capacity, unless you are loading heavy debris, then you are limited to 1 yard.
\r\n\r\nPricing varies by location.
\r\n\r\n![\"Bull](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/bull-bag-pickup_0.jpg\")
\r\nBull Bag is a Bagster alternative that is not as widely available.
\r\n\r\nAs of 2022, Bull Bag is available in select locations within the following states: Connecticut, New York, Florida, Rhode Island, Maine, Texas, Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire.
\r\n\r\nThere are several dumpster bag capacities available, including 4, 6, 8, and 10 yards.
\r\n\r\nAvailability is minimal for YellowSack.
\r\n\r\nAs of 2022, YellowSack is only available in Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco.
\r\n\r\nThe large dumpster bag option offers 2.6 yards of capacity.
\r\n\r\nPick-up costs vary based on the type of waste or debris.
\r\n\r\n![\"Gator](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/gator-dumpster-bag-pickup.jpg\")
\r\nThe Gator Dumpster Bag is another dumpster bag option that is only available in a few states.
\r\n\r\nAs of 2025, these 3.2 yard capacity dumpster bags are available in Rhode Island and parts of Massachusetts.
\r\n\r\nMost dumpster rental companies provide all-inclusive prices that include pick-up and disposal. For example, the average cost of a 10 yard dumpster is $250-$450 to rent and this cost includes drop-off, pick-up, and disposal up to a certain weight limit.
\r\n\r\nThe only potential additional fees include overage fees for going over your included weight limit or overfilling the dumpster, or for disposing of items that are prohibited. However, these additional fees could apply to any type of dumpster rental, including dumpster bags. It all depends on the dumpster company’s policies.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"Bag](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/roll-off-container-vs-bag-dumpster.jpg\")
\r\nWe encourage anyone in need of bulk waste disposal to explore their options. It’s easy to be drawn in by the low upfront costs of dumpster bags, but there's more to consider. Bag dumpster pick-up costs add more than $300 to the cost in many cases.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMost dumpster bags have limited capacity, and this is a limitation you need to consider before using one.
\r\n
It’s easy, and quite common, to underestimate the amount of debris or junk you have to dispose of. That 3 yard Bagster can fill up fast, and if there’s debris leftover, you may need to order a second (or more) Bagster to complete the job. This is an expensive mistake and one you can avoid with some due diligence. Bagster does offer discounts on multiple bag pick-ups, but the costs can still add up quickly.
\r\n\r\nA Bagster purchased in Austin, TX costs $30 for the bag and $219 for the pick-up once you’re finished loading it. This makes the total cost approximately $249 for 3 cubic yards of loading capacity.
\r\n\r\nHowever, let’s say there is 2 yards of debris leftover. A second Bagster to complete the job costs $30 plus a discounted pick-up rate of $179. When it’s all said and done, the total cost comes out to $458 for disposal of 5 cubic yards of debris.
\r\n\r\nA traditional 10 yard dumpster rental in Austin, TX can cost as little as $300 ($400 is typical) for a 7-day rental. This saves you money and gives you more loading capacity compared to the cost of the Bagster.
\r\n\r\nThe moral of the story is to make sure you compare your options when determining the best means of disposal for your particular project. Consider the whole scope of the project—from the type and amount of debris to the total out-the-door cost for disposal—when choosing whether to buy a bag dumpster or rent a traditional roll-off container or trailer dumpster.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to get quotes from local dumpster rental companies near you. Search dumpster rental (and junk removal) companies by zip code or city, read customer reviews for the companies in your area, and easily request quotes from multiple dumpster providers.
\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nFind out how much money you can save by renting a traditional roll-off dumpster instead of buying a Bagster or another bag dumpster in many situations.
\r\n","changed":"2025-04-17T16:23:12+00:00"},{"id":"ccb2b7ce-c243-593a-878a-594dee66605d","title":"How Long Can You Have a Dumpster in Your Driveway?","url":"/blog/how-long-can-you-have-a-dumpster-in-your-driveway","image":{"path":"/static/28cfc1cff1b6f570fffa9231963eec14/dumpster-driveway.png","alt":"dumpster being dropped off in driveway"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"One of the most common questions when renting a residential dumpster is regarding the rental duration.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nA standard dumpster rental period is seven days, although some dumpster companies offer shorter or longer rental periods. Most rental providers are willing to accommodate your schedule as best they can whether it’s short term or long term.
\r\n
Dumpster rental period is an important topic to address, and in this guide, we'll also discuss other key aspects of dumpster placement worth considering.
\r\n\r\n![\"Circling](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/dumpster-schedule.jpg\")
\r\nA seven-day rental period is far and away the most common rental duration.
\r\n\r\nSome rental providers specialize in short-term rentals of one to three days, while others offer rentals as long as 30 days or even longer.
\r\n\r\nA good dumpster rental company will work within the timeline of your project to accommodate the needs of the cleanup.
\r\n\r\nFor quick cleanups, such as a shed cleanout, this may be a one-day rental.
\r\n\r\nOther jobs, such as a disposing of interior renovation debris, may require that the dumpster remain onsite for a week or longer.
\r\n\r\nThere is no reason to have the dumpster remain in the driveway for longer than it needs to be, which is why it’s important to be accurate in describing your project with the rental provider to ensure the optimal rental period is determined before the container is dropped off.
\r\n\r\nWe suggest getting several quotes before booking the dumpster. Don’t base your decision on price alone, as the reputation of a company and how accommodating they can be to your project are key factors in finding the right company.
\r\n![\"HOA](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/hoa-document.jpg\")
\r\nSome customers may be subject to local rules or regulations when it comes to how long a dumpster is allowed to remain on their property. (These rules are separate from a dumpster rental company's terms and services policy.)
\r\n\r\nA common example of this would be a Homeowner’s Association (HOA) rule stating that roll-off dumpsters are only allowed on a property for more than a certain number of days, must remain out of public view, or other rules.
\r\n\r\nIf you are part of an HOA, check the rules regarding dumpster rental placement and duration prior to renting one.
\r\n\r\nIt’s also advisable to check with the public works department (or equivalent department) of your city to make sure all dumpster rental regulations are followed. Your dumpster rental company is a great source of information in this regard.
\r\n\r\nWhen placing a dumpster in your driveway, it’s not required to get a dumpster permit.
\r\n\r\nA dumpster permit is required when the container is placed in the public right of way, such as the side of a city street or across a sidewalk.
\r\n\r\nIn this case, the dumpster rental period will be dictated by the permit, so be sure to coordinate drop-off and pick-up of the container with your dumpster rental company to avoid any fees or penalties from the city.
\r\n\r\nLearn more: The Process of Obtaining a Dumpster Rental Permit
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Boards](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/boards-under-dumpster_0.jpg\")
\r\nWhile uncommon, a roll-off container can damage a driveway if proper care is ignored.
\r\n\r\nThe first form of prevention is driveway protection, which is usually accomplished by placing boards under the feet of the dumpster, providing softer contact with the concrete or asphalt driveway.
\r\n\r\nThe second form of prevention is minimizing the amount of time a dumpster sits on a driveway when temperatures are extreme.
\r\n\r\nFor example, in extreme heat, the weight of a dumpster can cause indentations on a driveway, especially if it is placed there for an extended period of time.
\r\n\r\nAsphalt can soften in extreme heat, and heavy items, such as a loaded roll-off dumpster, can leave impressions or even cracks by the time it’s picked up.
\r\n\r\nConsider placing your dumpster in the yard or other area and keep the rental period as short as possible if you have an asphalt driveway.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Blue](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/blue-dumpster-pickup.jpg\")
\r\nSometimes you can rent a dumpster for a shorter duration and save on costs.
\r\n\r\nSince dumpster rental companies make money by moving dumpsters from customer to customer, it can be advantageous to them to keep the rental duration short.
\r\n\r\nDuring the busy dumpster rental months (Spring to Fall), rental companies can experience a shortage of containers. Keeping dumpster rental periods short helps to control this issue.
\r\n\r\nOf course, if you need a dumpster for a longer duration, a reputable dumpster provider will accommodate your request.
\r\n\r\nConsider requesting a shorter term dumpster rental from your dumpster rental provider to see if that scores you a slight discount on the rental rate.
\r\n\r\nFor example, a 10 yard dumpster may cost $350 for a seven-day rental; ask the rental company if you could shorten the rental duration to three days.
\r\n\r\nAgain, if it’s during the busy dumpster season and the rental company is short on containers, they may offer a slight discount for the shorter rental period. The other benefit is that the dumpster is in your driveway for a shorter period of time.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find local dumpster rental companies.
\r\n
\r\nBrowse dumpster rental companies by zip code, read customer reviews for each company, and request quotes from multiple dumpster rental providers to ensure you pay a fair price for great services.
Find out more:
\r\n\r\nThe most common dumpster rental period is seven days, but this can vary by dumpster rental company. This is not the only consideration when placing a dumpster on a driveway. Read on to get the details.
\r\n","changed":"2022-07-01T03:23:25+00:00"},{"id":"e18371a5-8ab6-50e5-8633-ef4dbe48871b","title":"How Long Can a Dumpster Be on the Street?","url":"/blog/how-long-can-a-dumpster-be-on-the-street","image":{"path":"/static/0d850ede19c7cc292266c7257e24c4e8/blue-dumpster-on-side-of-street.jpg","alt":"Blue dumpster on the side of a public roadway"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"When renting a dumpster, sometimes it’s necessary to place the roll-off container on the side of a street.
\r\n\r\nFor example, maybe there’s no driveway or other access to the property.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMost municipalities allow dumpsters to be place in the street, but there are rules to follow and limits to the amount of time a dumpster can stay on a city street.
\r\n
Contact your city or work with your dumpster rental provider to obtain a dumpster permit that will allow you to place your dumpster on the street.
\r\n\r\nThis guide will go over the details associated with renting a dumpster and placing it in the public right-of-way, such as a road or sidewalk.
\r\n\r\n
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question.
\r\n\r\nThe amount of time you dumpster is allowed to stay on the street will vary based on the laws in your area.
\r\n\r\nIt will also vary based on the your dumpster's rental period.
\r\n\r\nSome cities allow dumpsters to be placed in the public right-of-way for only a short period of time, such as one to three days.
\r\n\r\nOther municipalities allow a longer duration based on the specific project and location.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOn average, expect to be granted a 3- to 7-day window by the city for parking your dumpster in the street.
\r\n
You must comply with the regulations specified by the city or be at risk of incurring fines or other penalties. This means making sure the rented dumpster is positioned correctly on the street, is picked up by the expiration date, and all rules are followed.
\r\n\r\nAdditional rules may include placing orange cones around the dumpster, having reflective tape or signs on or near the dumpster.
\r\n\r\nYou are also responsible for making sure not to block fire hydrants, mailboxes, or entrances to other homes or businesses.
\r\n\r\nThe above rules are not an exhaustive list. Check with your city and dumpster rental provider to make sure everything is squared away prior to the dumpster getting dropped off.
\r\n\r\nYou may incur fines if you do not follow the rules and regulations your city requires when placing a dumpster in the public right-of-way. These fines vary but can range from $500 to $1000+.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Read more: Dumpster Rental Terms and Conditions: A Closer Look at the Fine Print
\r\n\r\n![\"Yellow](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dumpster-on-the-street-2.jpg\")
\r\nAny time you block the public right-of-way for an extended period, a dumpster permit—sometimes called an encroachment permit—is required from the city.
\r\n\r\nIt’s a relatively simple process to obtain a dumpster permit, and your dumpster rental provider may be able to help you.
\r\n\r\nGet a dumpster permit from the city prior to renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nYou’ll need to know basic information about the situation, such as the dumpster rental company, dates, location of the placement, and other details.
\r\n\r\nFill out the permit form online if your city offers this option. Otherwise, a phone call or visit to City Hall may be necessary.
\r\n\r\nThe cost of obtaining a dumpster permit can vary anywhere from free to $100+. It depends on the location, rental duration, number of dumpsters, and other factors.
\r\n\r\nYour dumpster rental provider is a great source of information regarding dumpster permit requirements in your area.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n![\"Junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/Dumpster-on-the-street-3.jpg\")
\r\nWhat if you want to avoid going through the extra step of having to obtain a dumpster permit? There are alternative options.
\r\n\r\nThe most notable would be to hire a junk removal company for the job instead of renting a dumpster.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal companies come to the site with their truck and/or trailer, complete the cleanup, and properly dispose of the debris or junk.
\r\n\r\nThis process can take as little as 30-60 minutes for small jobs or a full day for large residential cleanout projects.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal services eliminate the need to rent a dumpster or obtain a dumpster permit.
\r\n\r\nThe potential downside is the cost.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal service typically costs more than renting a dumpster because of the labor costs associated with it.
\r\n\r\nHowever, the convenience and value of having a junk removal service handle the entire cleanup can’t be overlooked.
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy for customers to find local waste haulers.
\r\n
\r\nBrowse dumpster rental companies based on your zip code, read customer reviews for each company, and request quotes from multiple dumpster rental providers to ensure you pay a fair price for great services.
Find out more:
\r\n\r\nMost U.S. cities have laws regarding how long a dumpster is allowed to be placed in the public right-of-way (e.g., street or sidewalk). Learn the key points to consider before placing a rented dumpster in a public street or alleyway.
\r\n","changed":"2022-07-06T14:10:42+00:00"},{"id":"763a7153-f534-558d-8f7f-b672148e4ed6","title":"Why You Should Rent from a Licensed and Insured Dumpster Rental Company","url":"/blog/licensed-and-insured-dumpster-companies","image":{"path":"/static/7235ef3fb54211e31ca36ad84c1cad3e/liability-insurance.png","alt":"Person scanning the details of an insurance policy"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"02a42cee-60f9-5dfd-858c-22ec36b1ce1e","name":"Dumpster Rental","slug":"Dumpster-Rental"}],"content":"Renting a dumpster is a cost and time efficient way to manage large amounts of trash, debris, and recyclables, but not ensuring that the company you rent from is licensed and insured can result in a world of headaches.
\r\n\r\nLearn about the importance of hiring a licensed, bonded, and insured dumpster rental company and the potential risks and dangers of hiring services that fail to meet this criteria.
\r\n\r\n![\"Risks](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/unlicensed-dumpster-rental-infographic.png\")
\r\nOne of the biggest risks involved with renting a roll-off container or trailer dumpster from an uninsured company is the lack of protection if an accident occurs.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nEven the most experienced companies with the highest quality dumpsters can sometimes make mistakes, which is why it's so important to make sure that they have insurance to protect themselves and you.
\r\n
Whether it be damage to the property or the injury of a hired professional, an insured dumpster company will have the coverage needed to pay for the cost of remediation.
\r\n\r\nAn uninsured company, however, leaves you open to financial risk, as you would be responsible for paying damages. A person injured on your property could also have legal grounds to sue you for damages.
\r\n\r\nIt may seem unfair, but this is why we always recommend hiring qualified and insured dumpster rental services.
\r\n\r\nA \"company\" or individual who is willing to operate a business illegally may not have the best intentions to begin with.
\r\n\r\nIn addition to safety and legal risks, theft and other damage is a potential risk from people who aren't registered as a licensed company in the area they're offering services.
\r\n\r\nIt's much easier for people to get away with theft and other damages if there is no paper trail that could lead the authorities to them, leaving you responsible to deal with the aftermath.
\r\n\r\nDon't fall for the lure of cheaper prices if it comes with the cost of these potentially very expensive risks.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nHometown makes it easy to find dumpster rental companies in your area that are licensed and insured.
\r\n\r\nWe personally verify every company and every review that is left on our site, so you never have to worry about inaccurate reviews or unlicensed companies when you explore our web pages.
\r\n\r\nFinding reputable dumpster rental companies is easy:
\r\n\r\nRead about each company, see a list of container sizes and styles they offer, and access their phone number so you can contact them to get a quote whenever you're ready.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nNot ensuring that the company you rent a dumpster from is licensed and insured can result in a world of headaches. Read about the importance of hiring a licensed, bonded, and insured waste disposal company and the potential risks and dangers of hiring services that fail to meet this criteria.
\r\n","changed":"2022-05-24T14:56:33+00:00"},{"id":"8682c072-253e-5e8d-8761-1fd1905091b8","title":"Tips for Decluttering Before a Big Move","url":"/blog/tips-for-decluttering-before-a-big-move","image":{"path":"/static/fefa017127444303b1468b0c256f335b/stress-of-moving.jpg","alt":"Exhausted couple sitting on the floor in a room full of moving boxes"},"video":null,"media_type":"image","tags":[{"id":"c6d09b3c-4685-5ba7-83fd-d69df65bae55","name":"Declutter","slug":"Declutter"},{"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":"Moving evokes a wide range of emotions all at once – stress, excitement, happiness, frustration, and the list goes on.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe average home contains around 300,00 items and and estimated 80% of the items we keep in our homes remain unused.
\r\n
Decluttering can help reduce the stress associated with moving in a number of ways, like getting rid of unused items and organizing your belongings before packing them away.
\r\n\r\nHometown has put together a decluttering cheat sheet so that your move is well-organized and less stressful.
\r\n\r\n![\"Tips](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/infographic_6.png\")
\r\n\r\n\r\nGetting rid of things you never use prior to moving can save you time in the long run.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCarefully packing away items, hauling them to your new home, unpacking them, and finding a new storage space for them is a lot of unnecessary additional work if you never touch those items again until they end up being donated.
\r\n
Getting rid of unnecessary clutter will make your move easier and help to provide a clean slate in your new residence.
\r\n\r\nLearn more:
\r\n\r\nIt can be easy to become sentimental about things during a cleanout project.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTry to detach yourself from items that haven't been used in the past year and remind yourself of all the additional storage space you'll have to store more useful items.
\r\n
Start by gathering items that have no sentimental value to you, like trash, old furniture, broken appliances, damaged car parts, old tires, and other clutter.
\r\n\r\nAs you get rid of these items, you'll create satisfying momentum to continue the process and will be more likely to view your unused items as pieces to part with.
\r\n\r\nThere really is something so satisfying about ridding your space of old items and the more you do it, the more likely you are to be objective about items you may have struggled to get rid of prior to beginning your decluttering project.
\r\n\r\nStudies have shown that decluttering helps reduce stress, so try to view this project as something to be excited about rather than dread.
\r\n\r\nRemind yourself of how much easier your move and unpacking in your new home will be without all the extra junk clogging up valuable closet real estate.
\r\n\r\nKeep in mind that many of your used items could be going to someone who may really need it, particularly when it comes to furniture, appliances, and other staples that can get expensive when purchased new.
\r\n\r\nKnowing that your unwanted items can help someone else can significantly reduce the feelings of anxiety that creep in when it comes to getting rid of your old belongings.
\r\n\r\nIf you have the time, space, and weather for it, hosting a garage/yard/estate sale several months prior to your move allows you to offload items in a relatively short period of time.
\r\n\r\nThe cash made during the sale is a great bonus!
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\n![\"Cluster](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/declutter-1.jpg\")
\r\nThe key to decluttering is to start the process long before your moving date.
\r\n\r\nSorting through one room at a time and organizing each room's items into a pile to pack, a pile to donate/sell, and a pile to throw away is the best way to strategically plan your move.
\r\n\r\nFollowing these steps will help make decluttering and moving efficient and well-organized:
\r\n\r\nThis basic process will help eliminate a lot of work when it’s time to move. It can also save money by reducing the amount of labor and equipment necessary to get the items from point A to point B.
\r\n\r\nRead more:
\r\n\r\n![\"Junk](\"/sites/default/files/inline-images/junk-removal-vs-dumpster-rental.jpg\")
\r\nFor large homes or those with a significant amount of clutter, we recommend renting a dumpster or hiring a junk removal company to help.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rentals are a convenient and cost-efficient option when you have 7 or more cubic yards of junk to get rid of, especially if your project is ongoing.
\r\n\r\nFor decluttering, a 10 yard or 20 yard dumpster will typically be large enough to accommodate an average home's worth of clutter.
\r\n\r\nDumpster rental rates average $250-$450 for containers of these sizes and generally include a 5-7 day rental period.
\r\n\r\nThe price you will pay for your dumpster varies based on a number of different factors, like your location, dumpster size, amount of junk you're throwing out, and other factors.
\r\n\r\nContinue reading:
\r\n\r\nThe convenience of having someone else handle the removal and disposal alleviates a significant amount of stress and allows you to focus your attention on other pressing aspects of your move.
\r\n\r\nIn a decluttering situation, you can work alongside the junk removal company to ensure they are removing the correct items that you wish to get rid of or donate if you haven't already separated your belongings into piles to donate, throw out, keep, etc.
\r\n\r\nMany junk removal companies will donate usable items for you and provide you with a tax-deductible receipt.
\r\n\r\nJunk removal costs vary quite a bit based on the size and complexity of the work and can vary in price between $400 and $1,000+.
\r\n\r\nUnless you have a small amount of junk to get rid of, hiring a junk removal company tends to cost more than renting a dumpster because of the added labor costs, but the benefit of professional assistance cannot be understated when you're taking on such a large and time-consuming project.
\r\n\r\nThe main benefits of hiring a junk removal company to help you declutter before moving is convenience and speed.
\r\n\r\nHometown is here to help you find reputable, locally-owned dumpster rental and junk removal companies that service your area.
\r\n\r\nRead verified reviews from real customers to learn more about each service provider and easily request transparent pricing and availability details to book online anytime.
\r\n\r\nWe recommend comparing at least 2-3 different quotes whenever possible to ensure you get the best price and customer service available.
\r\n\r\nKeep reading:
\r\n\r\nRidding your home of unnecessary clutter prior to moving is an efficient way to de-stress and make the moving process easier. Read tips about how to strategically declutter before your big move.
\r\n","changed":"2025-11-13T19:08:03+00:00"}],"populars":[],"tips":[{"name":"Dumpsters for Rent","body":"An informed customer is one that can get the best deal.
\r\n\r\nHere are some simple tips:
\r\n\r\nLearn more: Dumpster Rental 101: How to Rent a Dumpster
\r\n\r\nThis will help give you a general idea of what type and how much debris can fit inside a roll off container.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nLearn more: The Ultimate Guide to Dumpster Sizes
\r\n\n\t\t\t\t\tZters works hard to provide outstanding customer service. We offer a variety of waste management solutions including temporary and permanent dumpsters, storage containers, portable toilets,...\n\t\t\t\t\tmore\n\t\t\t\t
\n\t\t\t![\"ZTERS](\"/static/836c6a00625e14e9f314f60093ba092e/1064329107644bc21a782b2.jpg\"/)
\n\t\t\t\t\t