Our pick for the best junk removal company is College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving, which offers a large selection of moving and junk removal services while keeping prices competitive.
Whether you’re preparing for a big move or simply decluttering your attic, a professional junk removal company can make the process easier. A junk removal company can handle the heavy lifting and safely dispose of your unwanted items while prioritizing recycling and donating when possible. Keep reading to learn more about the best junk removal companies in our detailed review.
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Same-day and next-day services
- Competitive junk removal pricing
- No obligation price estimate
Cons
- Hours and pricing vary by location and franchise
- Only available in 39 states
Services Offered
- Junk removal
- Local and long-distance moving
- Apartment moving
- Commercial moving
- Residential moving
- Donation pickups
- Packing
- Home staging
- Storage unit cleanout
- Loading and unloading
- Light demolition
Top Junk Removal Services
After hours of research and secret shopping, our team named the following companies as the top junk removal services in the industry. We based our review on each company’s overall value, service offerings, reputation, item protection, and scheduling abilities.
- College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving: Best for Moving
- LoadUp: Best Full-Service Junk Removal
- 1-800-GOT-JUNK?: Best Customer Service
- The Junkluggers: Best for Donating and Recycling
- Junk King: Best Pricing
Comparing the Top Movers for Junk Removal
The following table lists our top movers for junk removal and highlights Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings, state availability, and the type of service offered.
| Provider | Average Cost | State Availability |
|---|---|---|
$150–$750 | 39 | |
$150–$650 | 50 | |
$250–$1,000 | 45 | |
$400–$1,000 | 32 | |
 | $89–$600 | 36 |
Note: Average cost ranges reflect research into each provider and secret shopping to determine current market prices.
Our Review of the Best Junk Removal Companies
The following junk removal companies offer full-service junk removal, meaning assigned teams will come into your home and pack, load, and disassemble your unwanted items. When researching these providers, we specifically looked for companies that offer specialized junk removal services, prioritize recycling and donating, and have budget-friendly pricing.
College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving
Company Overview
- Provides full-service junk removal and moving services, such as packing, storage, and donating unwanted items
- Recycles 70% of junk removed and handles tricky items, like electronics and appliances, which require special steps for safe disposal
- Offers hourly labor options for packing, furniture rearranging, home staging, and more
Keep in Mind
- Offers tax-deductible donation pickup services
- Service availability excludes Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming
Our Review
If you’re moving and trying to get rid of junk, College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving is our top recommendation because it offers full-service options for both situations. You can opt for everything from home staging to help you sell your house, specialty junk removal for items as challenging as pianos and hot tubs, and professional packing to make your move easier. Plus, College Hunks advertises same-day and next-day services, a benefit for customers in a time crunch. If you don’t have time to run to the store, you can even purchase moving supplies from College Hunks, such as packing tape, wardrobe boxes, and mirror coverings.
College Hunks began as a full-service junk removal company in 2003 before evolving into a comprehensive junk removal and moving service provider. The company also offers attic cleanouts, electronics recycling, storm recovery and debris removal, and hoarding assistance. In addition to recycling or donating up to 70% of junk removed to keep it out of landfills, College Hunks donates two meals per service as part of its partnership with the organization U.S. Hunger. The company also supports domestic violence programs to help families leave dangerous situations.
Cost
Our research found that College Hunks is more affordable than most junk removal companies, with an average cost of $150–$750. Pricing for more extensive services, like attic or basement cleanouts, can vary and cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Other services, such as hoarding assistance and electronic recycling, have personalized pricing based on your situation and local disposal fees.
Like many junk removal companies we’ve reviewed, College Hunks offers custom rates instead of upfront pricing. During our secret shopping, we found that the free estimate form on the company’s website doesn’t generate an instant estimate. Instead, you must wait for a callback, which wasn’t the quickest process.
Customer Reviews
Most customer reviews we read praised College Hunks for its friendly and efficient junk removal and hauling teams. Reviews also mentioned quick response times and satisfaction with donation pick-up services. Negative reviews mostly focused on issues with the company’s moving services, such as damaged items and scheduling mishaps.
Note that while College Hunks held an F rating with the BBB at the time of this writing, the company only has one review on the site.
“Very satisfied with College Hunks hauling junk and moving…I needed a complete sleigh bed removed. [The movers] were awesome. They lifted the mattresses like butter and [the] bed frame as well. [I] couldn’t be more satisfied with [the] price and services.” —Elizabeth M. via Trustpilot, April 2025
“The College Hunks moved my stuff [and] I’m very unhappy with the service. I’ve been finding numerous pieces of furniture broken (some of which are old or handmade and can’t be replaced easily), which I now need to throw out. And even though my husband and I explicitly told them where to put certain things, they decided to put those items wherever they wanted. We hired College Hunks because we have difficulty lifting things on our own, but it has created so much extra work and loss for us. This was our move into our first home, and we’re unfortunately now spending it looking for new furniture and items.” —Kelly S. via Trustpilot, October 2024
LoadUp
Company Overview
- Offers an easy online quote process with guaranteed pricing
- Provides optional curbside pickup
- Available in all 50 U.S. states with GPS tracking
Keep in Mind
- Outsources some jobs to local contractors, which can impact service consistency
- Doesn’t offer specialty services like cabinet removal or demolition
Our Review
LoadUp specializes in a wide range of full-service junk removal services, including mattresses, box springs, treadmills, and pianos. You can even leave unwanted items on the curb and crew members will collect them without disturbing you, making junk removal a hassle-free experience. In addition to junk removal, LoadUp also offers property cleanouts, donation pickups, office junk removal, product assembly, and moving labor. We like the product assembly service if you want someone else to take over tricky projects like assembling a new desk or basketball hoops.
As another perk, LoadUp gives guaranteed prices with its online quote process, which means you won’t have any surprises later with hidden fees. Not many companies offer guaranteed pricing for moving or junk removal services, so this is a benefit for customers on a tight budget. The company’s online booking also includes order tracking, so you can track the junk removal drivers as they haul away your items. However, if you need full moving services alongside junk removal, we wouldn’t recommend this provider, as it lacks essential services like demolition, packing, and home staging.
Cost
For a family home in Arizona that needs several items removed, such as a full mattress, bags of junk, and a treadmill, we were quoted $344 with LoadUp. This price includes the cost of LoadUp trying to donate as many items as possible to prevent waste.
Overall, LoadUp had the most straightforward pricing structure and online estimate tool out of the junk removal companies on this list. However, we had to wait for a callback from the provider when requesting an estimate for a more complicated job, like a complete room cleanout.
Customer Reviews
Based on the BBB and Trustpilot, customers have praised LoadUp for its communication, with reviewers receiving a heads-up before their movers arrived, timely service, and next-day services. On the other hand, negative reviews pointed out issues with no-shows and not enough movers or trucks showing up for the job.
“I needed an old sofa removed from my condo. I spoke with a nice customer service rep for [a] next day pickup. LoadUp sent texts to keep me updated on the timeline. [The representative] was prompt, polite, and efficient. The whole interaction took less than five minutes. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Highly recommended.” —Caroline via Trustpilot, March 2025
“Terrible customer service. [They] gave me a window of 4–8 p.m., and when I didn’t hear from them by 7:45 p.m., I sent a text. At that point, I was told they couldn’t find anyone to accept my job. If I would not have reached out I suppose they were going to no show. When I let them know how upset I was, they informed me they never guarantee times or dates” —April C. via Trustpilot, February 2025
1-800-GOT-JUNK?
Company Overview
- Features inclusive prices that include disposal and environmental fees
- Provides specialty junk removal for everything from electronics to construction debris and large items like tires, grills, and hot tubs
- Offers 24/7 customer service over the phone
Keep in Mind
- Won’t remove chemicals, solvents, oils, asbestos, storage and oil drums, and waste storage tanks
- Service availability excludes Mississippi, Montana, South Dakota, West Virginia, and Wyoming
Our Review
While 1-800-GOT-JUNK? offers comprehensive junk removal services, moving labor, and light demolition, the company stands out for its customer service. This includes a hassle-free online portal that enables you to schedule appointments quickly. The company developed multiple innovative customer service options in response to COVID-19, such as the ability to request a no-contact quote and junk removal services. Plus, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? has 24/7 customer service, allowing you to book an appointment immediately—and sometimes on the same day.
The company also provides service if you need emergency debris removal after a fire, storm, or flooding, and claims not to inflate its prices when demand is higher. However, while 1-800-GOT-JUNK? advertises online pricing, we found you need an in-person appraisal for an accurate, all-inclusive price. And like many junk removal and moving companies, 1-800-GOT-Junk? is made up of franchises, which means service quality and offerings vary. For example, some locations won’t remove paint based on local regulations, so always check with your local team on available services first.
Cost
1-800-GOT-Junk? charges based on how much space your items occupy in its trucks, and you usually need an in-person appraisal to receive an accurate estimate. While reading customer reviews, we noted that reviewers shared a minimum pricing of $129–$200 for a single item, which is on the pricer side. If you have multiple items, the company determines pricing by truck volume. Overall, we found that 1-800-GOT-JUNK? has higher prices than most of its competitors by at least $100, so keep this in mind when shopping around.
Customer Reviews
Positive reviews for 1-800-GOT-JUNK? generally shared experiences with helpful and efficient employees who quickly tackled junk removal projects and cleaned up after. Negative reviews typically reported issues with communication and high prices, such as a customer receiving a much higher bill than expected after the team finished their project.
“Called 1-800-GOT-JUNK? for an estimate to remove an old TV. [The representatives] arrived [the] same morning, worked with me for a very reasonable estimate, and quickly took the TV away. Fantastic service…I will call them again.” —Barbara O. via Trustpilot, March 2025
“After requesting a junk pick up, I got calls from two different employees who gave me two different times for pickup. Bad. When told, an employee said someone would be at my house between 10–10:30 a.m. Nobody ever showed up or called. [I] texted and called [my representative] numerous times he never responded.” —Troy W. via Trustpilot, February 2025
The Junkluggers
Company Overview
- Promises customers will never pay more than the written on-site estimate
- Focuses on donations and responsible recycling, and provides receipts so you can maximize tax savings
- Offers moving and residential services, such as estate cleanouts, senior downsizing, and hoarding assistance
Keep in Mind
- May charge higher prices than many of its competitors, based on our research
- Service availability excludes Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, and Wyoming
Our Review
The Junkluggers strives to recycle and donate as much as possible during its junk removal services. The company partners with local community charity partners and works to donate to formerly homeless veterans, people without homes, Goodwill, and more. The Junkluggers offers comprehensive junk removal services but doesn’t have moving services, unlike College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving. However, you can opt for specialty junk removal services like estate cleanouts, hoarder assistance, appliance removal, e-waste recycling, and hot tub removal. We especially like the Junkluggers’ detailed e-waste recycling and removal services, as it’s challenging to dispose of these products in an environmentally responsible way that still protects your privacy.
However, you will need an in-person estimate for pricing from the Junkluggers. You can’t get an instant quote or online estimate, as is the case with some competitors. Instead, a Junkluggers team calculates an estimate once they’ve assessed your junk removal project in person.
Cost
During our research, we found that Junkluggers customers were charged anywhere from $800–$1,000 for an entire truckload of junk, including labor. We generally saw prices between $300 and $600 for smaller projects.
The Junkluggers doesn’t provide upfront pricing or online estimates, based on our review. A team will determine junk removal costs when they arrive at your property and analyze the project. However, once the company explains the price, it’s firm, and Junkluggers promises you won’t pay more than this estimate.
Customer Reviews
The Junkluggers has mixed ratings on customer review sites such as Trustpilot and limited ratings on the BBB. Common positive themes include mention of professional and efficient junk removal teams. However, other customers have mentioned issues with pricing or communication, like being able to reach representatives.
“[My representatives from [the] Lexington, Kentucky, branch were professional from the get go. [They were] fast, efficient, and [at] a great price. I would hire them back in a second.” —Brad J. via Trustpilot, June 2024
“Had thousands of dollars worth of furniture and small appliances collected. All [items] were a year old or less in perfect condition. Never received a tax receipt. Looks like there was no effort to donate. Tried to contact the company only to get an email bounce back.” —Viv via Trustpilot, August 2024
Junk King
Company Overview
- Offers a guarantee to beat any written estimate from other companies
- Has same-day furniture removal appointments
- Provides “pay only for what you use” dumpster pricing
Keep in Mind
- Doesn’t remove hazardous materials, like paint, which some junk removal services handle
- Availability excludes Alaska, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming
Our Review
Our team found that Junk King offers the most affordable pricing on this list, plus the company promises to price-match competitors if you have a written estimate with a lower rate. Some of Junk King’s jobs cost as little as $89, based on our review, whereas most providers on our list start at $150 or more. We also like that Junk King offers so many ways to obtain an estimate. You can wait for on-site pricing, collect an online pricing estimate (which is subject to change), text the team a photo of your items, or call and talk to a representative.
Overall, Junk King offers comprehensive junk removal services, recycles or donates up to 60% of the items it removes, and offers same-day service in many areas, which is why it’s made our recommendation list. However, the company has limited availability that may vary within the 36 U.S. states it services. For example, while Junk King operates in Arizona, when we tested several ZIP codes in the state, most of the northern region was out of its service range. So, even if your state is part of Junk King’s service area, double-check your part of the state is covered first.
Cost
For dumpster pricing, you only pay for what you use with Junk King. The company advertises a minimum price of $118 for a dumpster and between $223 and $598 for a half dumpster. Full dumpsters start at $263. Prices for junk removal start at $89 for a single item, but more extensive jobs typically cost at least $300.
Customer Reviews
As with other junk removal companies on our list, Junk King has mixed reviews on Trustpilot and limited reviews on the BBB. Positive reviews have highlighted quick, same-day service as well as personable employees and fair pricing. However, customers have also complained about scheduling issues and challenges receiving a donation receipt.
“[My representatives were] an amazing pair…I really appreciate their services. Very personable and hard working. Keep up the good work.” —Lavere M. via Trustpilot, June 2024
“The pricing was fair [and] the service was prompt, but I was promised a certificate or statement [that] the wood stove was rendered useless in accordance with Oregon law. I never received such a certificate or statement. Now I may be faced with a $750 fine.” —Daniel via Trustpilot, September 2024
Factors To Consider When Hiring a Junk Removal Service
A good junk removal service can help relieve stress by removing unwanted items from your home, such as yard waste, electronics, and old appliances. Hiring a junk removal service can also offer benefits if you don’t have the time, energy, or means to haul away unwanted items and ensure proper donation, recycling, or dumping. Consider these factors when selecting a junk removal company:
- Type of items: Always start by considering what kind of unwanted items you have and the services you need. For example, some companies won’t handle oversized items like fridges or mattresses or hazardous waste like paints or batteries.
- Eco-friendly disposal: Ethical junk removal companies recycle, reuse, and donate as much as possible when hauling away unwanted items. This is particularly important for electronics and appliances, which can leak hazardous chemicals into the ground.
- Pricing: Junk removal companies typically charge per item for smaller projects or set a project price for larger hauls. Double-check a company will provide a free onsite estimate with no hidden charges—including dumping fees, labor, and tax—so you’re not surprised when you receive the final bill.
- Availability: Many junk removal companies offer same-day or next-day services so you’re not left with yard waste, storm debris, or broken-down items in your home.
- Moving services: If you’re moving and need to get rid of items, look into companies that offer both junk removal and moving services, such as packing, home staging, and room cleanouts. This step saves you from needing to coordinate with multiple companies.
- Dumpster rentals: Dumpster rentals often cost less than full-service junk removal options and offer a more affordable alternative if you don’t mind loading smaller items or bags of trash yourself.
Junk Removal Services FAQ
How do I choose a junk removal company?
You can choose a junk removal company by shopping around based on your budget and unwanted items. We recommend considering what services you need, how the company handles junk disposal, and if its pricing is competitive. You can also read customer reviews to learn more about the quality of service a company offers in your area.
Is it cheaper to rent a dumpster or hire a junk removal company?
It’s usually cheaper to rent a dumpster than hire a junk removal company that also charges for labor. Our team found that most dumpster rental companies charge around $650 for a dumpster for a week, but junk removal services usually surpass this cost if you’re getting rid of a large number of items.
On the downside, dumpster rental companies typically won’t accept heavy items like fridges, freezers, or tires. Some dumpster rental companies also require that you sort your items. For example, you often can’t mix yard trimming and construction materials.
Do I tip junk removal guys?
Yes, you should tip your junk removal guys. Junk haulers work diligently to move your items as carefully as possible to clear your home of unwanted items and avoid damaging your home. We recommend tipping between 10% and 20% of your total bill for exceptional work, or 5%–10% for standard service.
What is the best junk removal service?
The best junk removal service is College Hunks Hauling Junk & Moving because of its comprehensive junk removal and moving service, affordable pricing, and same-day and next-day service options. According to our research, this provider offers useful full-service junk removal packages and widespread state availability, making it a robust choice for many homeowners.
How We Evaluated Junk Removal Companies
We evaluated junk removal companies based on a detailed rating methodology, which we then used to objectively rank each company. Our team conducted thorough research by analyzing company websites, conducting consumer surveys, analyzing customer reviews, speaking with customer service representatives, and collecting quotes when possible.
When ranking junk removal companies, we prioritize factors such as affordability, service variety, availability, and reputation. A junk removal company with competitive prices, comprehensive service offerings, and high customer satisfaction across review websites ranked higher on our list. We also prioritized companies with teams available in most U.S. states, ideally with same-day or next-day services.
