Get matched with top haulers in Maurepas, LA

Focus on decluttering when downsizing to move cross-country. Selling, donating, or recycling unwanted items early in your moving process is key to your success. If you are on the fence about some items, consider storage options, or you can ship these items separately to lessen your load.

Depending on your location, you can bring items to your local dump. It’s important to check their guidelines on what they accept, as not all dumps will take all items. 

In addition, renting a dumpster is an option in most areas. Renting a dumpster will cost around $400 for a week, including the cost of hauling it away. However, it does not include labor to lift heavy items into the dumpster. If you have very large or heavy items, chemicals, or other items that you cannot bring to your local dump, contact a junk hauling company.

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.

Preparation involves site assessment, clearing debris, grading surfaces, and compacting soil to support stable construction.