8 Questions to Ask a Junk Removal Company Before Hiring Them

When it comes to decluttering your home, hiring a junk removal company can be a game-changer, but only if they have the proper training and experience. To make sure you hire a trustworthy pro, be sure to talk to a few different companies and ask each of them some questions.

Not sure what to ask? The residential and commercial junk removal contractors at PickUp Haulers in Round Rock & Pflugerville, TX have you covered. We’re sharing eight frequently asked questions about junk removal, so you have a handy list of questions to ask prospective companies.

Question 1: Are You Licensed and Insured?

If you want your junk removal project to go off without a hitch, you need a licensed and insured junk removal company on the job. With the necessary permits and licenses, you can feel confident that they will meet your standards for excellence.

Insurance is particularly important for safeguarding your interests during the removal process. In the event of accidents, injuries or damage, a company with proper insurance should cover the cost so the financial burden doesn’t fall on you.

Question 2: What Safety Measures Do You Follow?

Before a junk removal company even touches your unwanted items, make sure they plan to follow the proper safety procedures. This will help minimize the risk of injury or damage. Some safety measures commonly followed by reputable junk removal companies include:

Securing the proper equipment and gear: The team should use gloves, masks and protective clothing to handle potentially hazardous materials safely.

Running safety checks: The team should inspect the area for potential safety hazards, then plan accordingly.

Undergoing the proper training: The team should learn proper lifting techniques to prevent injuries while handling heavy or bulky items.

Does your junk removal job involve a specific safety concern, such as handling hazardous chemicals or oversized items? Consider researching some frequently asked questions about junk removal related to your safety concern. That way, you’ll have some more targeted questions to ask.

Question 3: What Type of Junk Do You Remove?

Before you hire a residential or commercial junk removal company, make sure they’re willing and able to meet your specific needs. Provide a list of all the items you want to remove — if they can’t accommodate your requirements, it's best to explore other options. To facilitate this process, inquire about their licensing and equipment capabilities, specifically for handling:

  • Hazardous materials: This includes chemicals, paints and batteries.
  • Construction debris: This includes drywall, lumber, concrete and tiles.
  • E-waste: This includes old computers, printers and phones.

Keep in mind that different junk removal companies may have varying policies regarding the types of items they accept, and some might specialize in specific materials. As long as you’re aware of their policy beforehand, you can count on a seamless junk removal process.

Question 4: How Do You Determine the Final Price?

You don’t want to have to dip into your savings just to remove an old pile of junk. Instead, ask several junk removal companies for a detailed breakdown of their pricing options. That way, you can budget accordingly and avoid any unexpected costs or hidden fees.

Typically, junk removal companies determine their prices based on the volume and weight of your junk, as well as the time and labor required for the job. Depending on the company, volume is measured by the truckload or by cubic yards.

The right residential or commercial junk removal company will be transparent about their pricing, and they may even provide a free estimate.

Question 5: Can You Provide Testimonials?

One way to gauge a junk removal company's reliability and professionalism is by asking them to provide testimonials from previous clients. This can give you valuable insight into what it’s like to work with the company.

Online platforms like Google reviews and Yelp are excellent resources for reading customer feedback and can help you make a more informed decision. You can also look for client reviews on a potential company’s website.

Question 6: Do You Recycle or Donate Junk Whenever Possible?

If you believe in the power of recycling to reduce waste, conserve resources and protect the environment, consider partnering with junk removal contractors that share the same vision. If you have some items that can still be used, consider donating them.

Many cities have local donation centers so you can keep junk out of the landfill while also helping your local community. For example, PickUp Haulers in Pflugerville, TX will take any gently-used items to the local Goodwill or Salvation Army, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.

Question 7: How Do You Handle Large or Bulky Items?

Maybe you want to get rid of your old piano. Maybe you want to throw away your old couch. Either way, you need a junk removal company that can handle heavy or bulky items.

If you want the crew to be ready to go on removal day, send them a list of all the items you want to remove ahead of time. They’ll have plenty of time to gather the necessary equipment.

Question 8: What Is Your Availability?

If you’re moving out of an office or apartment building, you have to remove your junk before the new tenants arrive. Since you’re crunched on time, you’ll have to find a residential or commercial junk removal company that can work with your schedule.

The availability of a junk removal company can vary based on factors such as location, demand and operating hours, so make sure you give them as much notice as possible. While advanced booking is preferred, some junk removal companies offer emergency services. They may be able to pick up your junk the next day.

Find a Reliable Junk Removal Company

The junk removal process is never easy, but you don’t have to go it alone. These eight frequently asked questions about junk removal will help you find a reliable company. If you live in the Round Rock or Pflugerville, TX area, turn to PickUp Haulers. Our residential junk removal and commercial junk removal company can handle your job safely and efficiently. We even offer same-day services.

Dial 512-281-0173 to speak with one of our team members today.