What Junk Removal Companies Take (and What They Won't)

The short version: a junk removal crew will take almost anything non-hazardous that two people can carry. But "almost anything" has real edges, and knowing them before you book saves you a wasted appointment. Here's the complete picture of what goes in the truck and what has to be handled another way.

Furniture and household goods

This is the core of the job: couches, sectionals, recliners, mattresses and box springs, bed frames, dressers, tables, chairs, bookshelves, entertainment centers, desks, and office furniture. Condition doesn't matter — broken, stained, or pristine, it all loads the same way. Usable pieces are separated for donation where a charity will take them.

Appliances and electronics

Refrigerators, freezers, washers, dryers, dishwashers, stoves, ovens, microwaves, water heaters, and window AC units are all standard. So are TVs, computers, printers, and general e-waste. A few of these carry a small recycling fee — older tube and projection TVs especially — because they contain leaded glass or refrigerant that has to be processed. See how to dispose of old appliances in Louisville for the details on that.

Yard, garage, and construction debris

Crews haul branches, brush, leaves, fencing, old lumber, and general storm debris, as well as garage clutter like tools, bikes, and boxes. Construction and remodel debris — drywall, flooring, carpet, cabinets, doors, trim, and fixtures — is fine too, as long as it's not mixed with hazardous material. Heavy inert debris like concrete, brick, and dirt is usually taken but priced by weight rather than volume.

What crews legally can't take

These are barred by disposal regulations, not company preference, and no reputable hauler will bend on them:

• Paint, stains, solvents, and other liquid chemicals
• Motor oil, gasoline, propane tanks, and automotive fluids
• Asbestos and asbestos-containing material (tiles, insulation, some siding)
• Pesticides, herbicides, and pool chemicals
• Medical waste, sharps, and prescription drugs
• Ammunition, explosives, and flares

Where those items go instead

Jefferson County residents can take household hazardous materials to the Louisville/Jefferson County Metro Government hazardous waste drop-off site — paint, chemicals, oil, and batteries included. Southern Indiana residents in Floyd and Clark County have their own periodic hazardous waste collection events. Propane tanks can usually be exchanged or returned at hardware stores and gas stations. Latex (water-based) paint can be dried out with hardening additive or kitty litter and thrown in normal trash once solid; oil-based paint cannot.

If you're not sure whether something in your pile is a problem, ask when you book. We'll tell you upfront what we can load and point you to the right drop-off for the rest.