Junk Removal Questions, Answered
Estimates, what can go, local trash rules and what happens after the truck leaves.
Estimates and booking
What is the first step?
Phone (256) 800-6958 or fill in the estimate form with a rough list of items and where they sit. Photos help. You get a free estimate and owe nothing if you decide not to go ahead.
Why not just list your prices?
Because jobs vary too much for a price list to be honest. One couch on a ground floor and a packed basement full of mixed items are completely different loads. Every job is quoted on its own. Call for a free estimate. There is no obligation to book.
When are you open?
Calls are answered 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week, including weekends.
Can you come today?
Same-day service may be possible, depending on how full the day is and how big the load is. It is never guaranteed.
Does someone have to be at the property?
Ideally, yes, so someone can confirm what leaves and what stays. If nobody can be there, sort out a plan when you book, which is common with rentals and estates.
Are calls recorded?
Phone calls are recorded. You will hear an announcement about it as soon as the call connects.
What can be taken
What items can you remove?
Furniture, mattresses, appliances, electronics, exercise equipment, boxes and bags of household items, yard and patio items, and leftovers from DIY projects like old cabinets or carpet. If you are unsure about an item, ask.
Is there anything you cannot take?
Hazardous materials such as paint, chemicals, fuel, solvents, pesticides and anything containing asbestos are not part of a standard load. Ask before the visit and you will get a straight answer.
Should I drag everything to the driveway first?
No need. Upstairs rooms, basements, attics, sheds and barns are all fair game, and items are carried out from there.
Can you take old tires?
Often, yes, as part of a load. Alabama treats permitted landfills and tire processors as the proper place for scrap tires (ADEM), and many city curbside services will not take them.
What about refrigerators and freezers?
Yes. Appliances that contain refrigerant need proper handling at disposal under EPA rules. See appliance removal for details.
Local trash rules
Will the City of Athens pick up my furniture?
The city's bulk trash collection takes large household items such as furniture, appliances and yard waste, up to 4 cubic yards per week, from the curb.
Does Athens still have curbside recycling?
Athens suspended curbside recycling in 2025. Residents can take sorted recycling to the Limestone County Recycling Center on North Jefferson Street. Check its hours before you go.
I live outside city limits. Does the county take bulk items?
In unincorporated Limestone County, the county solid waste service collects household garbage only. Furniture, appliances and other bulk items are the property owner's responsibility.
Does my contractor have to haul away their own debris?
In Athens and Decatur, the city rules say waste a contractor generates is the contractor's to remove. Check your contract before the work starts.
After the job
Where does everything go?
Items that can be recycled or donated are recycled or donated when possible. That depends on the condition of each item and what local outlets will accept, so it is never guaranteed. The rest goes to a proper disposal facility.
Do you clean up afterward?
Yes. The cleared area is swept before the truck leaves.
Who should I contact with a concern?
Call (256) 800-6958 or use the contact page. See the complaints policy for how concerns are handled.
Ask Us Directly
Phones are staffed 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., seven days a week. Or add your question to the estimate form.