This is a quick guide.
Use it to spot hauling work and quote fast.
Junk vs hauling (what changes)
- Junk removal: mixed items from a home.
- Hauling: heavy stuff or bulk loads (dirt, brush, concrete, shingles).
- Hauling needs clear material type, load size, and dump rules.
Vehicles and loads
- Small pickup = light jobs and short trips.
- Pickup + trailer = more space, slower turns.
- Box truck or flatbed = big jobs and pallets.
- Use load tiers (⅛, ¼, ½, ¾, full).
- Secure the load with tarps and straps. Do not overload.
Where hauling jobs show up
- Construction sites (demo debris, shingles).
- Landscapers (brush, sod, dirt).
- Storage and apartments (bulk piles).
- Retail and offices (fixtures, pallets, cardboard).
- Farms and ranches (scrap, fencing, brush).
Price and permit notes
- Price = dump fees + labor + drive + profit.
- Heavy stuff (concrete, dirt, roofing) may have per-ton fees.
- Some sites need weight tickets.
- Trailers and heavier trucks may need extra rules. Check your state.
- Do not haul banned or hazardous items.
How to quote fast
Ask for five things:
- What is the load? (dirt, brush, shingles, mixed)
- How much is it? (photos; ¼, ½, full)
- Where is it? (curb, yard, upstairs, long carry)
- How far is the dump? (one-way minutes)
- Any dump rules or surcharges? (concrete, tires, mattresses)
Text to send
“From the pics, this looks like ½ load of [material]. All-in $___ (includes dump). I can do 2–4 today. Book it?”
Gear that saves time
- Tarps, ratchet straps, bungees.
- Shovel, rake, broom, magnet sweeper.
- Wheelbarrow, hand truck, plywood ramp.
- Gloves, eye protection, dust mask.
- Flashlight and extra bags.
Safety first
- Tie down every load. Cover with a tarp.
- Lift with legs. Team lift heavy items.
- Watch nails, glass, and dust.
- Keep weight even. Don’t stack high.
- Follow local dump and road rules.
People also ask (quick answers)
What are junk hauling jobs?
Bulk loads like brush, dirt, shingles, or construction debris that need a truck and dump.
Do I need a bigger truck?
Use what fits the job. A pickup works for small loads; add a trailer for more space.
How do I price hauling?
Use load tiers. Add dump, labor, drive, and profit. Heavy materials may add per-ton fees.
Can I haul dirt or concrete?
Yes, if your dump allows it. Many sites charge per ton and require a weight ticket.
Do I need special permits or a DOT number?
It depends on vehicle weight and use. Check your state and federal rules before you scale.
See more tactics in the complete junk removal jobs guide.
Join Ex-Mattress (28-day free trial)
Get found in local search. Book more jobs. Get paid your way.
Ready to book more jobs? Start your 28-day free trial.
