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Separate your junk pile into three categories: trash, recycling, and donations. Many cities offer bulk trash and recycling pickup for free or a small fee. Specialty items, such as those with refrigerant, will also require a special appointment. You can also speak with a junk removal service to create a plan for getting rid of junk over the course of a large project.

The most affordable way to get rid of junk often involves a do-it-yourself approach, especially if you don't have a large amount of debris. Start by sorting your items into categories: donate, recycle, sell, or trash.

• Donate or Sell: Usable goods can be donated to local charities. You can also list items for free or for a low price on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.

• Use Municipal Services: Your city's regular garbage collection or bulk pickup days can be the cheapest option. However, be sure to check community guidelines for quantity limits and accepted materials. You can also take recyclables to a city drop-off center.

• Haul it Yourself: If you have a truck or suitable vehicle, loading the junk and taking it to a local transfer station, public dump, or waste disposal facility is a very cost-effective method.

If a DIY approach isn't possible, consider these options:

• Rent a Dumpster: You can rent a dumpster, fill it yourself, and the rental company will haul it away. This is a good middle-ground if you can do the labor but don't have a vehicle for transport.

• Hire a Junk Removal Service: While typically the most expensive choice, hiring a professional junk removal team is the most time-efficient and requires the least effort from you. This is a good solution if your city's services won't accept the items or if you are unable to move them yourself.

Products that are hazardous, such as aerosol sprays, top the list of what to leave behind during a move. Avoid packing perishables, garden and garage chemicals, pool supplies, compressed gases, and combustible items. If you are trying to move by yourself, you may want to downsize so you have fewer belongings to pack and move (and then unpack).

Yes, concrete is recyclable, but you can’t just drop it off at a traditional recycling center. Most major cities have specific concrete recycling centers that will accept your concrete disposal and break it down using industrial equipment. Recycled concrete can be used to create environmentally sustainable items like gabion walls to protect shorelines.