How to Start a Junk Removal Side Hustle.

Junk is something that everyone accumulates. Eventually that junk has to be hauled off and junk removal can be a profitable side job. Here is how to get started.

As always, you will need equipment and customers. For equipment you will need a truck, dollies and tools. For the truck a used pickup will work. Eventually you may want to add a trailer or upgrade to a flatbed. I suggest both a four wheel dolly and a two wheel dolly or hand truck. The tools required will include a sledge hammer, saws, pry bars, wrenches, cordless drill, screwdriver and box cutters. You will also want straps for securing the junk being hauled off.

For customers, focus on a four point plan. First, create a website that is just a basic landing page. Next, take time to email all of the local property management companies letting them know that you remove junk. Print business cards and pass them out to the local hotels. Hotels will need your service when they dispose of mattresses and other items. Lastly, list your service on Craigslist, Angie’s List or Home Advisor.

To properly price the job; know your truck size. You can charge by the piece, cubic yard, or trip.  Avoid customers who want you to haul concrete and dirt, because it is not part of the junk hauling side hustle.

Next, figure out items can be recycled at your local metal scrap yard. You can discount these items. Mattress, sofas, pianos, and hot tubs have to go to the landfill. Charge according to how long it takes you to load the truck, the number of trips needed, and disposal fees that you incur at the landfills. Items with refrigerant may need to be drained before disposal.

However you decide to price the job, provide a quote up front even if it is just an estimate. Customers do not like being surprised with an unexpected bill at the end of the job. As with all side hustles, strive to achieve customer satisfaction and ask for the five star review you deserve. Being able to accept multiple forms of payment is plus.