Are you ready to declutter your home before a move? Whether you want to downsize, reduce your to-move haul, or just want to get rid of anything you can't or won't use again, take a look at what you need to know about junk removal services and your decluttering options.

Why Might You Need A Professional Removal Service?

You take the garbage out every week and have no problem driving a few bags of old clothes and shoes to the local donation center. If you're already used to removing clutter by yourself, why would you need to hire a pro for this type of pre-move job?

Even though removing junk isn't a complex home improvement task, such as plumbing or HVAC repairs, it isn't always easy to do by yourself. While a DIY junk removal might seem like a cost-saving idea, consider hiring a professional if:

• You have more than a few bags of junk. Most local municipal garbage removal providers will only take a few bags at a time. If you have a dumpster's worth of junk, a professional service can carry and haul away the load.

• You have larger items. Furniture and similar items are difficult to carry and throw away on your own. A junk removal pro can do the heavy lifting and get rid of couches, mattresses, tables, and more in a safe way.

• You don't have time to declutter. Some removal companies will go into your home and declutter for you. This can dramatically reduce the time you spend preparing for your move.

You may also need to hire a removal company as part of your moving services line-up if you have mobility issues that make it difficult to lift and carry almost any item. Professional junk removal is an ideal option for older seniors, people with chronic pain, or people with some types of conditions and disabilities.

Will A Professional Remove Everything?

The answer to this question depends on the contractor and local rules/regulations. Most junk haulers won't take potentially hazardous items. This could include flammable or combustible chemicals, open paint or other similar materials, gasoline, toxic waste, biological materials (such as used needles or anything contaminated with human/animal waste or blood), or anything else that could pose a risk. 

Ask your would-be future hauling contractor for a list of prohibited items before you schedule a removal service. If the company can't take household hazardous waste items, contact your local waste authority to learn more about safe and acceptable disposal procedures.  

For more information, contact a local company that offers junk removal services.