Get matched with top haulers in Wickliffe, OH

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.

Policies vary on what you can throw in a dumpster rental. Some companies will accept large appliances, although you may need to take steps to prepare the washer and dryer for disposal. Some companies don’t allow large appliances in their dumpsters at all, so it’s best to ask the rental company beforehand to find out what its policy is.

Most people who rent a dumpster choose a 20-yard dumpster, which should be large enough for the following:

• Bathroom remodels

• Home cleanouts

• Roof replacement

• Large-scale landscaping projects

A 10-yard dumpster is suitable for the following projects:

• Small bathroom remodel

• Patio or deck demolition

• Small landscaping projects

You might need a 30- or 40-yard dumpster for the following projects:

• Large construction projects

• Large demolition projects

• Whole home renovations

You can ask your local dumpster rental company what size dumpster you need based on the specific project you have lined up.

While many junk haulers have restrictions on taking hazardous materials, most will be able to take appliances that use refrigerants, like refrigerators and air conditioners. Always check with the junk removal company first to find out if there are extra fees or preparation steps for removing appliances that use refrigerants.