Start with an item list, then flag anything unusually large, heavy or uncertain. A sofa and a pile of concrete might occupy similar space, but they need different plans. Photos, condition and access help determine whether an item fits the requested pickup.
Ordinary household and business items
These are common starting points for a standard non-hazardous pickup. Include the quantity and location of each item; the final scope still needs review.
- Sofas, chairs, mattresses and bed frames.
- Tables, desks, dressers, shelving and outdoor furniture.
- Boxes and approved household clutter.
- Disconnected appliances, with the type and condition identified.
Discuss these before arranging pickup
A photo does not establish weight, disconnection or a safe carrying route. Describe the size, condition and location of unusual items, and say when weight is unknown. Approval of ordinary furniture does not automatically include the items below.
- Refrigerators and freezers: identify the appliance, whether it is built in and whether it is disconnected.
- Safes, pianos, exercise equipment and oversized furniture: flag weight, stairs and narrow doorways.
- Hot tubs and large fixtures: describe what is still attached and any work needed before hauling; dismantling is not assumed.
- Concrete, dirt, tile and shingles: request a separate material and weight review.
Keep these out of a standard pickup
Hazardous and regulated material is outside standard service. If you find suspected hazardous material, leave it untouched and tell the team what you can observe safely. Do not open, mix, drain or move unknown containers to prepare for a quote.
- Wet paint, fuel and chemicals.
- Asbestos or suspected asbestos-containing material.
- Needles, medical waste and biohazards.
- Pressurized tanks, explosives and unidentified material.
Send an item list that answers the next questions
A short, specific description is more useful than “some junk.” For example: “One sofa, one dresser and six boxes, upstairs, with street parking.” Mention items that must stay so they are not included in the removal scope.
- What is it, and how many are there?
- Where is it now, and what is the carrying route?
- Is anything heavy, damaged, connected or unidentified?
- Are there photos of both the items and access?