Whether you're clearing out a garage, prepping a house to sell, or finally getting rid of that old shed full of who-knows-what, junk removal is one of those services that's easy to underestimate. Here's what to know before you book.
What's typically included
- Furniture, mattresses, and appliances
- Garage, basement, and attic cleanouts
- Yard waste and construction debris
- Loading and hauling — you don't lift a thing
- Responsible disposal, including donation drop-off for items still in good shape
What usually costs extra (or isn't included)
Hazardous materials like paint, chemicals, or asbestos-containing items typically require special handling and aren't part of a standard junk removal job. Extremely heavy items (think pianos, safes, or hot tubs) may also carry an additional charge due to the labor and equipment involved. A reputable company will always flag these upfront rather than surprise you on invoice day.
How pricing actually works
Most junk removal is priced by volume — essentially, how much of a truck your junk fills — rather than by the hour. That's why an accurate quote depends on either photos beforehand or an on-site look. Be wary of any quote given over the phone with no photos and no volume estimate; it's a common way jobs end up costing more than expected.
Questions worth asking before you book
- Is the quote based on truck volume, weight, or a flat rate?
- Do you handle loading, or do I need to bring items outside myself?
- What happens to items in good condition — do they get donated?
- Is there a minimum charge for small jobs?
Getting a straight answer
We quote junk removal jobs across the St. Louis metro area based on actual volume, not guesswork, and we're upfront about anything that falls outside a standard load. If you've got a project you've been putting off, send us a few photos and we'll get you a real number.