How to Get Ready for a Junk Removal Pickup
A simple checklist before the truck shows up, from AB Hauling in Chapin, SC. Call or text (803) 537-9619.
Quick answer: Decide what is going and what is staying, mark or group the items if you can, and text clear photos for a free estimate. Set aside anything hazardous, like paint, chemicals, fuel and propane, since those are not taken. Make sure the crew can get to the items and park close by. You do not need to carry anything to the curb, because the crew does the lifting.
A little prep makes a junk removal pickup faster and makes sure nothing gets hauled off by mistake. Here is how to get ready, whether you are clearing one couch in Irmo or a whole garage in Lexington.
1. Decide what goes
Walk through the space and decide what is leaving. If you are cleaning out with family, agree ahead of time. Mark items with tape or sticky notes, or group them in one area if that is easy. Anything you are keeping should be clearly separated so there is no confusion.
2. Pull out keepsakes and papers
Before a cleanout, check drawers, boxes and pockets for cash, photos, documents and keys. Once items are on the truck, they are gone.
3. Text photos for an estimate
Estimates are free. Text photos of the items or the space to AB Hauling, with a rough idea of how much there is. Photos from a few angles help. Our how it works page explains the process.
4. Set aside items that cannot be taken
Hazardous materials like paint, chemicals, fuel, propane tanks and asbestos are not taken. Keep them separate. If you are not sure about something, ask. See what we take and do not take.
5. Make it easy to get to
- Clear a path from the items to the door
- Make sure there is room to park the truck close by
- Unlock gates, garages and sheds, and let the crew know about any gate codes
- Keep kids and pets out of the way during the pickup
You do not need to move items to the curb. The crew can pick up from inside the house, the garage, the yard or the shed.
6. Empty and prep appliances
Empty refrigerators and freezers, and unplug appliances ahead of time. Disconnecting a washer or ice maker water line before the crew arrives helps the job go faster. See furniture and appliance removal.
7. Bag loose items
Loose clutter, yard waste and small items go faster when bagged or boxed. Larger debris from a project can be piled in one spot. See construction and remodel debris and yard waste and debris removal.
On pickup day
The crew arrives, confirms what is going, loads everything and cleans up the area. If you have extra items you forgot to mention, ask. Same-day or next-day pickups are often available when the schedule allows.
Junk removal around Columbia
AB Hauling serves Chapin, Irmo, Lexington, Columbia and West Columbia. For bigger jobs, see garage and home cleanouts, or our FAQ on getting rid of an old mattress or couch.
Common questions
Do I need to be home for the pickup?
It helps to be there, at least at the start, to confirm what goes. Ask about other options when you book.
Can you take items from upstairs or the attic?
Yes. The crew does the lifting from inside the home. Mention stairs or tight spaces when you send photos.
How do I get a free estimate?
Text photos to (803) 537-9619.
Get a free junk removal estimate
AB Hauling & Dump Services is owned by Anthony and based in Chapin, serving Irmo, Lexington, Columbia, West Columbia, Cayce, Springdale, Blythewood, Ballentine, St. Andrews and Forest Acres. Open every day, 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern. Call or text photos to (803) 537-9619 for a free estimate, or use the contact page.
Still have a question?
Call or text (803) 537-9619 and ask.