What Items Will Junk Removal Services NOT Take?

When you’re cleaning out your garage, decluttering your home, or managing a move, junk removal services can be a lifesaver. They haul away unwanted items quickly and efficiently, saving you time and heavy lifting. But while these services handle a wide variety of junk, there are certain items they typically won’t take due to safety, environmental, or legal concerns.

Here’s a guide to what most junk removal companies will not take—and what you can do instead.

Items Junk Removal Services Typically Do NOT Take

1. Hazardous Waste

Junk removal companies are not licensed to handle hazardous materials, including:

• Paints, thinners, and solvents
  
• Pesticides and herbicides
  
• Motor oil and antifreeze
  
• Asbestos-containing materials
  
• Batteries (especially lithium-ion or car batteries)
  
• Propane tanks
  

What to do instead: Contact your local hazardous waste facility or look for designated drop-off events in your area. Many counties host periodic hazardous waste collection days.

2. Medical Waste

Items like needles, syringes, medications, or anything contaminated with bodily fluids are classified as medical waste and are strictly regulated.

What to do instead: Reach out to your pharmacy or local health department. Many offer sharps disposal containers and prescription drug take-back programs.

3. Tires

Due to their bulk and environmental impact, most junk removal services do not take tires.

What to do instead: Check with local tire shops, which often recycle old tires for a small fee.

4. Pressurized Containers

Any item under pressure—like fire extinguishers, propane tanks, and some aerosol cans—can be dangerous to transport and are therefore off-limits.

What to do instead: Your local fire department or waste facility may accept these items for proper disposal.

5. Explosives or Ammunition

For obvious safety reasons, junk haulers will not handle any form of explosives, fireworks, or ammunition.

What to do instead: Contact your local police department for safe disposal guidance.

6. Construction Debris (in some cases)

Some junk removal services may restrict or charge extra for heavy construction materials such as:

• Concrete
  
• Bricks
  
• Asphalt
  
• Large quantities of drywall or insulation
  

What to do instead: Look for construction-specific debris removal services or rent a dumpster designed for heavy materials.

7. Large Vehicles or Machinery

Boats, RVs, trailers, and non-running vehicles may not be accepted, especially if they require special towing or disposal regulations.

What to do instead: Call a scrap yard or salvage company—some will even pay you for the vehicle!

8. Certain Electronics (E-Waste)

Some junk companies will haul away e-waste, but many do not due to strict recycling laws, especially for:

• Televisions
  
• Computers
  
• Monitors
  

What to do instead: Search for certified e-waste recycling facilities or check with your city’s recycling program.

Always Ask in Advance

Every junk removal company operates under different policies and local regulations, so if you’re unsure about an item, call ahead and ask. Reputable services will provide clear guidance and may even recommend alternative disposal options.

Responsible Disposal Matters

By understanding what junk removal companies can’t take and why, you not only avoid surprise fees—you help ensure that items are disposed of safely and responsibly. When in doubt, reach out to local resources or your city’s waste management department.

Need help with junk that can be hauled away? Contact your local junk removal service for an easy, clutter-free solution!