Find top rated junk removal pros in your area

Some charities—think Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, or the Salvation Army—will pick up gently used furniture or appliances at no charge. Broken or worn-out items, however, usually need a paid junk-removal service. Check with your city, too; many run bulk-item or spring-cleanup days that allow one-time free pickups.

The smallest roll-off dumpsters hold about 2 cubic yards—roughly 6 feet by 8 feet and 3 feet deep—and handle around 400 pounds of debris. They’re perfect for light cleanups, such as closet purges or small bathroom demos. Expect a weekly rental of $75 to $200. Need even less room? A collapsible dumpster bag runs about $100 to $180 for the same period.

Yes. Most junk-removal companies sort out anything that can be donated or recycled first, then haul the rest to an approved landfill. This two-step process keeps usable items out of the dump and ensures everything else is discarded according to local regulations.

While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s a thoughtful way to thank haulers for heavy lifting and careful handling. Many homeowners offer a flat $20 to $50—or 15% to 20% of the bill—when the crew navigates stairs, removes extra-bulky items, or finishes the job ahead of schedule. A quick online review or cold drinks are also appreciated if a cash tip isn’t practical.