This is a quick guide.
Use it to pick apps, avoid bad leads, and keep good clients.
What apps do
- They bring you people who need a pickup.
- You pay a fee or a lead cost.
- You reply fast, book a time, and do the job.
App types (know the difference)
- Lead marketplaces. You pay for the lead. You may compete.
- Gig apps. You claim set-price jobs inside the app.
- Local platforms. Groups and marketplaces where people post needs.
Tip: start with one of each. Keep the winner. Drop the loser.
Compare fees and rules (keep it simple)
- Cost: lead price or app fee.
- Refunds: when do you get credit back?
- Territory: can you choose your area?
- Reviews: do stars change your price or rank?
- Messaging: can you text photos?
- Policy: read TOS. Don’t risk your account.
How to vet a job in 30 seconds
- Distance: under 20–30 minutes?
- Load size: ⅛, ¼, ½, ¾, full.
- Access: curb, garage, stairs, tight hall?
- Dump: any fees or banned items?
- Client: verified? clear photos? normal tone?
If one box is bad, pass. Slow “maybe” jobs kill your day.
Scripts that win
First reply (copy/paste)
“Thanks! Please send 3 pics + zip. I’ll reply with a quote in minutes.”
Quote
“Looks like ¼ load. All-in $___. I can do 2–4 today. Card or cash. Book it?”
After job
“Thanks again! I’ll text before/after and your receipt. Save my number for next time.”
Keep the client next time (ethically)
- Do great work. Be on time. Sweep up.
- Hand a clean card if allowed by the platform.
- Ask for a review inside the app.
- Share your public business info (website, phone) on the receipt or thank-you text if the platform terms allow.
- Add the contact to your client list for future reminders.
Metrics to watch (one sheet)
- Leads/jobs from each app.
- Cost per lead (CPL) or app fee.
- Close rate.
- Average ticket.
- Cost per job (CPJ).
- Reviews gained.
If CPL > 20% of ticket for weeks in a row, fix or pause.
People also ask (quick answers)
What is the best app for junk removal jobs?
It depends on your city. Test two apps for two weeks. Keep the one with lower CPJ.
Are junk removal apps worth it?
Yes, if your cost per job is under 20% of your ticket and reviews grow.
How do app fees work?
Some charge per lead. Some take a cut per job. Read the refund rules.
How do I avoid bad leads?
Ask for 3 photos, load size, access, and date. Say no fast when it’s a bad fit.
How do I turn app jobs into repeat clients?
Deliver A+ service, ask for a review, and share your business info if terms allow.
See more tactics in the complete junk removal jobs guide.
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